Chandelier Size Guide

Finding the Right Size Chandelier
Selecting the right chandelier size isn't always straightforward—there are multiple factors to consider, and knowing where to begin can be tricky. A chandelier that's too small can get lost in a large room, while one that's too big may overwhelm the space. The key is choosing a chandelier that's proportionate to both the room’s dimensions and the furniture within it.

Here are some general guidelines to help:

1. How to Determine the Chandelier’s Diameter

Measure the room's length and width (in feet), add them together, and use that total as the chandelier's approximate diameter.

For example, a 16 ft by 8 ft room: 16 + 8 = 24, so the chandelier should be around 24 inches in diameter.

2. How to Determine the Chandelier’s Height

For hanging chandeliers (like pendant-style chandeliers), you can estimate the ideal height using this formula:Ceiling height (in feet) × 2.5 = chandelier height (in inches).

(Note: This applies mostly to hanging chandeliers, not flush-mounted ceiling chandeliers.)

For example, if the room height is 11 feet: 11 × 2.5 = 27.5, so the chandelier should be around 27.5 inches tall.

3. How High Should You Hang Your Chandelier?
In an open space: The bottom of the chandelier should be at least 7.5 feet from the floor for comfortable clearance.

Above a dining table or kitchen island: The bottom of the chandelier should be 30 to 36 inches above the tabletop for balanced lighting.

Choosing the Right Chandelier for Different Spaces

Besides general sizing rules, different rooms have specific guidelines for selecting the perfect chandelier.

Dining Room & Kitchen Island
When placing a chandelier above a dining table or kitchen island, its size should be proportional to the table’s dimensions:The chandelier’s diameter or length should be between ½ and ¾ of the table or island’s length.

For example, if your dining table is 60 inches long, the chandelier should be 30 to 45 inches in diameter or length (about ½ to ¾ of the table or kitchen island length).

Two-Story Foyer with a Staircase
Besides ensuring the chandelier hangs at least 7.5 feet from the floor, consider how it looks from the second floor in a two-story space. Staircase chandeliers are often a great choice. Here are two common placement guidelines:

A common guideline is to use the second floor as a reference, hanging the chandelier slightly below or at the top of the staircase so that its top aligns with eye level when viewed from upstairs.

Alternatively, many designers prefer positioning the chandelier as a focal point, independent of the staircase. For example, if there’s a large window above the door, centering the chandelier within the window enhances its visual impact from the outside.

Long Hallways
To determine the right chandelier size for a hallway, multiply its width (in feet) by 2.5 to get the diameter (in inches).

For example:Hallway width: 8 feet × 2.5 = 20 inches (recommended chandelier diameter).

If using multiple chandeliers along a long hallway:

Space them 8 to 10 feet apart.
Center them in the hallway.
Keep at least 7.5 feet of clearance from the floor.

Final Thoughts
Finding the right chandelier is all about balance—sizing it correctly ensures it enhances your space without overpowering it. If you need help choosing the perfect piece, explore ELG Lighting’s curated collection of crystal chandeliers designed for modern elegance.