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Chandelier Cleanup 101

Saturday, October 6th, 2018

Uttermost Lamps and Lighting Marinot, 12Lt. Chandelier 21298

If you’ve recently redecorated your home and the project involved stripping the walls of old wallpaper, then the dirt and dust might have found their way to your chandelier. So how do you clean those plaster dust and wallpaper particles? ‘Time to give your lighting fixture a lot of lovin’.

There are two known methods of chandelier cleanup. The first one is the Glass Off and the other is Glass On.

Glass On is a method that makes use of a damp cloth to wipe down the decorative elements while the fixture is still attached to the frame. The Glass Off type requires that the hanging elements are taken off of the fixture and then cleaned piece by piece. Each of the cleaned pieces is then reattached after they have been polished.

If you’re thinking of spraying some solutions directly to the chandelier, hold your horses. There are cleaning solutions that can easily damage the non-crystal parts of your lighting fixture.

For now, let’s learn about the two types of cleaning methods.

The Glass Off Method

If you choose to clean your chandelier using the glass off method, then you will be better able to clean the parts. It can get difficult to clean a swinging chandelier for those who clean it with the Glass On method. This is especially dangerous when you’re cleaning a chandelier that’s installed high up on a very high ceiling.

If you’re cleaning up to resurrect a vintage or an antique fixture, then it is best to work with a ladder. As soon as you acquire this, turn the circuit breaker off. If this is not possible at the moment, then turn off the switch to the chandelier. Use a large tape to cover the switch just as an added precaution.

Check the chandelier since you will be removing many hanging elements and you will also replace them after the cleanup. Remove every section that you see and make a mental note (if not a physical note) on how to put them all back. You might also want to take a photo of the chandelier from different angles. This is for reference later on.

A grimy or dusty chandelier will not be as brilliant or sparkly as a new one. You can recapture the shine by taking the time to clean the lighting fixture, step by step.

The Glass On Method

This chandelier cleaning method is best in removing light dust and dirt. This can be done every two to six months, also depending on the room conditions where the chandelier has been placed.

Here, there is no need to remove the crystals. Switch off the power to the lighting fixture, though. Just make sure that all the bulbs are screwed on tightly to their sockets.

Protect the fixture from any water by covering them with sandwich bags. You can also use rubber bands to tie all around the bases. Next, place one towel on the floor right below the fixture. This should help absorb the drips coming from the cleaning spray.

There are cleaning solutions that you can buy from shops or you can just go ahead and make the cleaner. One part of ammonia should be mixed with three parts of distilled water. This solution won’t leave water marks as compared to just using tap water.

An alternative to this is a hot soapy water solution. Others use one part of isopropyl alcohol together with three parts of distilled water.

Whatever solution you end up using, make sure that you spray all the surfaces except the wire and electrical parts. let the solution drip off then rinse off using distilled water. You can also just wipe them off with cotton cloth if you don’t want to wait for the solution to drip.

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Are Chandeliers Okay to Place in the Bathroom?

Thursday, December 28th, 2017

The Uttermost Lamps and Lighting Couler Polished Nickel 4 Light Chandelier will look amazing hanging on a vaulted bathroom ceiling.

The renovation of your bathroom space to give it a more elegant look could be as easy as just this one update – installing a chandelier.

A chandelier is an amazing option for your bathroom renovation project more so when you want to make a statement. Elevating the look of your bathroom means that you now have to shop among the many available shapes, styles, sizes, and finishes of chandeliers.

But what do you need to consider in order to successfully install the best bathroom chandelier?

The Bathroom Size

The chandelier is a lighting fixture that takes up space – sometimes, a lot of it. Compared to recessed lighting, it can visually fill up a section of your bathroom. It is because of this that the classiest bathrooms leave no less than a hundred square feet. Increase this to 150 square feet and you’ve done an even better job.

You wouldn’t want to squeeze in a lovely chandelier in a cramped space – it’s simply not a good idea. If you want to take a chandelier inside a smaller bathroom, then find a smaller fixture rather than the larger, more sparkly ones.

The Bathroom Ceiling

You would also need to consider the overhead space where the chandelier will be hung. Building codes ask for ample space so that the tub isn’t kissing the lighting fixture. So, before you come to a final design, you might want to confirm the height of your ceiling and if it enough to welcome the addition of a chandelier.

The National Electrical Code’s standard for any fan, vent or lighting fixture is at least 8 feet above the bathtub or 3 feet out from the tub. If you’re uncertain about the rules, ask a licensed electrician.

If you have a bathroom with vaulted or high ceilings, then you’re blessed. This is the most natural setting for a bathroom chandelier. Even so, you must also still measure the height and slope of these ceilings. Consider how the lighting fixture will interact with the rest of the design elements inside the bathroom.

A wide chandelier, for example, must hang farther down the ceiling off a slope. To do this, you will need a longer rod or chain.

The Bathroom Layout

Many designers’ favorite location for a bathroom chandelier is right over a tub. This is especially when you want the bathtub to become the focal point in the bathroom. The chandelier will then play the role of the perfect element that would emphasize the said bathroom feature.

If the height of the bathroom ceiling would not allow you to install a chandelier right above the bathtub, then you can install the lighting fixture just a few feet in front of the same tub. Just make sure that when you enter the room, that everything is still centered. This will give the illusion that the chandelier is still hanging right above the bathtub.

If this setup still doesn’t work, then the safest way to go is to hang the chandelier right in the middle of the bathroom. You can even center it between the sinks if you have a his and hers sink setup.

If the tub and shower come at separate corners, then the best way to hang your chandelier is in the middle of the room so that the design would still look balanced.

The Materials

Chandeliers with light-colored materials can make bathroom ceilings look airier and more open. Brass is quite a popular finish these days so you might want to use this type of chandelier if you want to have a classic and elegant bathroom. Polished nickel is also quite popular.

You can also mix other materials such as glass or crystals.

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It’s Crystal Clear: The Benefits, the Do’s and Don’ts of Using Crystal Chandelier

Wednesday, July 12th, 2017

Uttermost Lamps and Lighting Fascination 3 Light Crystal Chandelier 21138

Crystal chandeliers. These are the ultimate pieces of luxury in homes, hotels, and other commercial establishments. What would you give to have it in your home?

You might want to know the benefits of owning a crystal chandelier.

Chandeliers Spell Elegance

Chandeliers are often hung in dining rooms or living rooms, even the bedroom, all because we want to achieve elegance. A home that has a chandelier is also a home that has an interesting conversation piece.

Iron, brass and other lustrous lamps can easily bring joy to a home. Though this is the case, still, nothing can compare to the beauty and glamour that only crystal chandeliers are able to provide. It is for this reason that many homeowners want to have their own chandelier to display.

Chandeliers Are Timeless

Wood, metal and other forms of candelabra can stay put long enough on the ceiling but it is a crystal chandelier that can hold longer. The chandelier’s glass and frame – when given great care – can last through many, many years. You would see a lot of vintage crystal chandeliers because they can stay in their perfect condition for decades.

Materials used in creating chandeliers are also durable so you could expect to have a lighting source for a long time. With the best manufacturer, you won’t have to worry about glass or crystals being suspended in the air as the best artisans provide the best craftsmanship.

Chandeliers Save Electricity

You might find this hard to believe but the use of chandeliers can help save you money.

How?

First, you would need fewer bulbs since you only have to depend on one lighting source. Just make sure that you dust the chandelier occasionally so that its light will remain bright. Keeping the crystals free from dirt could be a DIY (do-it-yourself) project for you and your family or you could ask the help of a professional.

Chandelier Do’s and Don’ts

Owning a chandelier is no small task so be sure to know the key elements that will make your chandelier ownership more meaningful.

Lighting is not just a functional piece in a home anymore. This can also be a design element nowadays. Chandeliers can be the best decorative, pendant lights. They can also be the finishing touches to any design theme.

Here’s the first DO – do make sure that you invest in the right size of chandelier. Add the room dimensions in feet then convert the measurements to inches.

Do buy big chandeliers for the dining room. If you don’t want the lighting piece to appear overwhelming, then hang it much closer to the ceiling.

Another basic DO is to hang a chandelier at 30-36 inches from the tabletop. The lower you hang it, the more area it will be able to light. The rule of thumb is to not hang it too low or it would hit your head.

Do hang your entryway chandelier at about seven feet from the floor. You can also use chandeliers in different rooms so go ahead and experiment – hang one in the kitchen, home office, even your bathroom.

As for the don’ts, make sure that you don’t hang the chandelier at less than four feet from any of the walls. Also, don’t hang ornate chandeliers to close to any type of table. Never hang a fixture to a point where it goes below the second story in any two-story entryway.

Another don’t is to not limit your chandelier ownership to just one piece. A large room could have more than one chandelier. Two small chandeliers should be able to amply light a huge room.

Lastly, do not be afraid to experiment in terms of chandelier styles. Show your personality by hanging the chandelier piece that best describes who you are.

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Crystal Lighting, Glamour and Your Kitchen

Friday, November 11th, 2016

Lamps and Lighting Uttermost Siobhan 6 Light Crystal Chandelier 21289

Lamps and Lighting Uttermost Siobhan 6 Light Crystal Chandelier 21289

Drinking wine, champagne or any alcoholic beverage is a custom that’s practiced during special occasions and celebrations. It is also customary to bring out crystal or wine glasses to raise a toast to whatever it is that is being celebrated. People toast for successful work projects, weddings, finishing college, and new beginnings. But, hey, are you able to distinguish crystal from ordinary glass? Because, you see, you should be toasting from the real deal.

A lot of people look at a crystal and glass and they would say that they are practically the same. There are subtle differences which are not easily discerned by many.  The chemical composition of each is different as well as their thickness, cut, clarity, sound, refraction, and weight. Know each of these factors so that you can find genuine crystal which you will eventually hang as a lighting fixture in your kitchen.

Glass vs. Crystal

Prior to delving into the glass and crystal differences, you should first define each according to what the popular culture thinks about them. For instance, a lot of people do not know that crystal is a term used for lead glass.

Glasses are made of glass and they are often used as containers. This is also a term used for drinkware that may have handles or without. Glass, in essence, is a raw material that is made of soda-lime. This is what 90% of glasses are made of these days.

Soda-lime, on the other hand, is made from soda, lime and silica. This is also typical in the manufacture of tableware, windows, bulbs and figurines. This is inexpensive compared to borosilicate glass (Pyrex) or fused quartz.

Crystal is made of silica, soda or potash, and lead oxide plus other additives. Lead crystals are durable and beautiful at the same time. They are great as decorative pieces.

Lead crystal was shortened to crystal because of the Italian word cristallo referring to Murano imitations. Wine glasses are often made of lead crystal as well as many decorative elements in many homes.

Apart from chemical composition, there are other ways to point out crystal from glass. Based on thickness, fine crystal is a lot thinner than glass. It also tends to be more decorative because it has a lead content. The lead makes it easy for the sculptor to do his magic. Crystal is more fragile, though.

When it comes to clarity, glasses are cloudy when held up against any kind of light. Crystal is famous for its clarity and for its refractive quality.

Now here’s the real tester – sound. Crystal has a rich pinging sound when you clink it. Glasses produce a thud.

The Crystal Chandelier

Would you like your dining room or kitchen to stand out?  A crystal chandelier will immediately pull the attention of the beholder right into the middle of the room. Imagine a crystal chandelier in the middle of your kitchen and surrounded by rich materials such as quartz countertops, brick backsplash and the best copper pots and pans – now that’s a sight to behold.

You can also fuse soft and hard by hanging a crystal chandelier in the middle of a mainly masculine setting. Add some accent cabinets to accompany the beauty of your lighting fixture. White cabinetry is quite a common choice for crystal chandelier owners.

The kitchen island can also be complemented with this lighting beauty.

Prep yourself in buying crystal chandelier. They are huge and grand but they do not have a one-size-fits-all option. Find a fixture that’s not too big or too minute for your kitchen. This room is often fitted with a chandelier often when it also doubles as a dining area so make a wise decision.

The secret here is to look at the bigger picture. Remember these simple numbers –

For a room that sits 4-6 people, the crystal chandelier width should be 20-24 inches; with 6-8 people, the width should be 25-29; and for 8-10 people, the width should be 30-36 inches.

 

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Shatter Stereotyping: 8 Things To Make Your Home Stand Out

Thursday, November 10th, 2016

Lexington Living Room Merideth Etagere 351-C

Lexington Living Room Merideth Etagere 351-C

There are plenty of things that you can do to make your home stand out from the rest. You can clean up, declutter, and add unique furnishings. All these are obvious things that you need to do but have you thought of other techniques to shatter stereotyping for your home?

Check out these cool ways to make your home the newest enviable structure on your block –

A High-Gloss Door

If you want the dining room to become extra glamorous, then be ready to create changes. Many people think of candlelit dinners when an evening space is designed as posh. Have a custom high-gloss plum dining door installed. Don’t be boring, be bold.

Fuse Clashing Hues

There are many vivid colors to choose from. Combine the most exciting colors with unique patterns and what you achieve is a customized, bold statement for your home. Use fabric on walls, silk shade to lamps, even a leather door. Have your floor custom-painted. The sky’s the limit when it comes to using colors that seemingly compete.

Artsy Bed

Do not be afraid to use a huge bed inside a small bedroom. Just make sure that the piece you purchase is an open and airy one. This is so you won’t feel claustrophobic. Memorize the rule of thumb which is to have the top at no less than six inches from the ceiling.

To add impact, be sure to use dark wallpaper. If you want to highlight the new bed, though, then it would be best to use white walls.

A Grand Chair          

Dramatize a chair by placing it in a way that it is the first thing that you will see once you enter the room. Provide an equally grand pair for it such as an interesting urn or a large vase. Pairing great looking pieces will also help the guests make sense of your design agenda. Use a chair in the same color palette as your current furniture so that it will be look at home.

The Peculiar Statue

Find a statue that’s less ceremonial than a bust and wittier than the common horse head. Have this statute show a bit of human anatomy and or any eye-catching feature. Make sure to place this piece in the most conspicuous spot such as the entryway or a living room side table.

If you’re conscious about this effort, then have a smaller version work as a bookend in one of your shelves.

A Unique Table Lamp

A task lamp isn’t just for task lighting. Make it a point to use a modern task light right on the side table by the corner. An arched lamp up above will surely be the sleek piece to a gold backdrop. Switch it on and you’d see how it will cast a romantic glow.

The Graphic Rug

What could be more non-stereotypical than a bold-patterned rug? Make this the surprise focal point in a room where the common central pieces are the furniture. If not, the rug can also be a great design element unifier so allow it to do its job.

Don’t worry about pattern overload, allow a solid coffee table to solve this issue for you.

Universal Furniture Accessories Media Easel 026970 is a unique way to display your TV set.

Universal Furniture Accessories Media Easel 026970 is a unique way to display your TV set.

The Modern Chandelier

The high-gloss door isn’t the end to something that’s shimmering. Adding the contemporary vibe of a chandelier will also make the dining room a must-see place. This is the kind of lighting that works best with dark frames and dark furnishings.

The glass element on the dining table echoes the bulbs and glimmering crystals of the chandelier up above.

It’s time to break away from what’s common. Use a thing or two from this list to make your home exceptional.

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Gold-Brass – A Beautiful Interior Design Union

Thursday, November 3rd, 2016

FFDM's Fusion Collection shows the shimmering beauty of gold yet again.

FFDM’s Fusion Collection shows the shimmering beauty of gold yet again.

There is an ongoing trend that’s becoming more popular each day. People seem to be having a great interest in all things that are gold or brass. Those who love to wear jewelry know how thrilling these colors are especially if you combine them.

Gold and brass can provide a certain warmth and depth that no other color combinations could offer. Chrome, no matter how beautiful, won’t be able to achieve the luster that gold and brass attain.

The sad thing is, trends tend to die so how do you use this beautiful trend so that it becomes a part of something more lasting?

Making Gold and Brass Timeless

What’s great about interior design trends is that they tend to have a longer existence compared to seasonal fashion. In essence, you still have 10 or more years to use this beautiful color combination before this style goes down the drain.

So now that you’ve confirmed that you’re a huge fan of gold and brass, how do you think you can bring it home? Now don’t go panic buying all because you’ve seen the furnishings in vogue. Invest in pieces that show your maturity as a furniture buyer.

Be able to embrace quirkiness. Find objects that are fun and unique. These are the pieces that can add character and personality to your home.

So, once again, where would you put the gold-brass color combination?

Chandelier

The chandelier is one of the best pieces to infuse more shimmer and shine. Find an elegant chandelier that will add a pleasant eccentricity to the room. For example, pick one that’s not too heavy on metal but has a lot more of glass. Gold can then be used on the arms of the chandelier. This should give your dining room, den, living room or bedroom a touch of elegance.

The chandelier is no longer just for dining rooms anymore. Go ahead and use the glamour of this lighting fixture in other rooms.

Furnishings, Paint and Fabrics

Who wouldn’t fall in love with gold furniture? They’re one of the hottest items these days. Just look through interior design magazines and sites and you’d see how elegant the rooms suddenly become once gold furnishings are used.

But how would you be able to pull off this look without creating a tacky-looking home? Begin by swapping out the linens, curtains, pillows, area rugs and fabrics with ones that have gold hints or accents.

Hooker Furniture Living Room Melange Beaumarchais Chest

Hooker Furniture Living Room Melange Beaumarchais Chest

Table Runner

Tables in your home become instantly glamorized when you add a gold runner. This look will be perfect for any season but more so this coming holidays. Be sure to pair it with the best centerpiece so that the gold is accentuated in your dining room or living room.

Partner this table runner with some decorative balls, also in gold. Have them placed in a gold-rimmed tray or bowl to make your home even more glitzy.

Sparkling Accessories

Candles are supposed to burn but there are now pieces that are not meant to. Add a golden touch to your home décor by adding some gold candles on the table or placing them at end tables in your living room. Their shiny lights will go a long, long way.

Gold and Brass Hardware

Brass is definitely back. Don’t think of the ‘80s sort of brass fixtures but the brass pieces that are shinier and more modern-looking.

Brass or gold hardware can make a huge difference in any kitchen. The combination of both colors would add a formal touch to what would have been a modest kitchen.

Fashionable Frames

Gold and brass accents can be easily added on any wall or table by placing some picture frames. Just replace the frames of your current wall photos with gold borders. The more intricate and interesting the borders are, the more fashionable they’re gonna be.

May these gold-brass pieces up the level of glitz, glamour and fashion in your home as you consider some of the tips above.

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Posted in 2016 Trends, 2017 Trends, Accents, Color Schemes, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements | No Comments »

Chandelier Specs – What to Know When Buying This Lighting Fixture

Monday, October 31st, 2016

Lamps and Lighting Uttermost Tamworth 5 Light Silver Champagne Chandelier 21268

Lamps and Lighting Uttermost Tamworth 5 Light Silver Champagne Chandelier 21268

The chandelier is a lighting fixture that has two or more branches that bear lights. Gone are those days when it was a mere wooden cross beam complete with metal spikes to hold the lighted candles. Nowadays you won’t see chandeliers hoisted up with a rope or chains. These lovely lighting fixtures have evolved into charming pieces with different designs.

Chandeliers, these days, are not just used for lighting but also for aesthetic purposes.

Adding Ambience with Chandeliers

Needless to say, this lighting fixture that’s designed to float inside a room is a great design element. This can easily serve as a centerpiece in any space.

If you’ve seen the film What A Girl Wants, you would find one of the characters there boasting of his lovely chandelier to his guests. It’s not just a conversation catalyst but also something that he got accustomed to being arrogant about.

Chandeliers can also spell luxury in so many ways. They are unequalled when it comes to lighting elegance.

Maitland-Smith Lamps and Lighting Finely Cast Brass, Iron And Penshell Empire Chandelier 1954-010

Maitland-Smith Lamps and Lighting Finely Cast Brass, Iron And Penshell Empire Chandelier 1954-010

Picking the Right Chandelier

There are many things that you need to consider when purchasing your first chandelier. Think of materials, different sizes, and light emission when you are out to determine the best chandelier for your room.

There are horizontal and vertical sizes. Know that buying a large fixture could mean an overwhelmed space. Purchasing one that’s too small, though, means it could look insignificant if not unremarkable.

The size and design of the chandelier will also eventually affect the way the fixture will be hung. If you want an elaborate chandelier that would be hung inside a spacious dining room, for instance, then be sure to take the time to do some measurements.

Hold a tape measure to a height that you think would work for your chosen chandelier. Here are some general guidelines –

  • A room that’s no bigger than 10 feet by 10 feet should have a 17-inch to 20-inch diameter chandelier.
  • For a room that’s 12 feet by 12 feet, it is wise to buy a 24-inch to 27-inch diameter chandelier.
  • For something that’s 14’ x 14’, it’s wise to buy somewhere at 24 inches to 36 inches in diameter for your chosen lighting piece.

The length by which a chandelier must hang is dependent on the height of the ceiling. The bottom part of the fixture must not hang more than seven inches from off the floor. If there are windows, then be sure to put the chandelier at the center where it can be seen from the outside.

The Correct Chandelier Materials  

Since chandeliers easily become the focal points in room, then you must know what sort of materials would enhance the room. Candle and crystal combinations make the most nostalgic visions. Glass and crystal, on the other hand, are quite popular in the creation of romantic settings. They are also indicative of wealth and luxury.

The use of antler chandeliers brings to mind those days past when life was simple and lighting was as basic. The rustic design that these offer are perfect for log cabins and those rural lodges; they are also great for a more antiqued look.

You can also invest in metal chandeliers. These come in wrought iron, brass, steel and silver. Add some stones, shells, beads and Capiz and you’d have achieved a fancy lighting piece. Metal chandeliers often look great in modern and contemporary homes. The less ornaments used, the more fitting the lighting fixture is for a modern setting.

Be careful in choosing the colors of your chandeliers. The most famous finishes now are black, gold, silver and brushed bronze. There are also neutral-colored pieces that would easily suit your design scheme.

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The Modernized Chandelier

Friday, September 16th, 2016

Uttermost Lamps and Lighting Tuxedo, 6-Lt Single Shade Chandelier 21130

Uttermost Lamps and Lighting Tuxedo, 6-Lt Single Shade Chandelier 21130

The mere mention of the term chandelier makes one think of class and sophistication. This is that ornate lighting fixture which is just as much decoration as it is a lighting source. Most of the ideas from the ancient times still haven’t changed although those that did were marvelously welcomed.

The word chandelier originated from a French term, chandelle, which literally means candle holder. In the beginning that was the original function of this lighting fixture. Historically speaking, the first batch of chandeliers appeared on the 14th century. There were no frills during that time, design-wise. In fact, the chandeliers then were so simple that all it took to design them were two wooden beams that formed a cross. This cross had a spike at its end that held candles.

Structures that needed chandeliers back then were abbeys, churches and other large gathering areas. The cost of chandeliers could only be afforded by the wealthy. These were the only people who were able to buy and maintain such pieces.

After the candle era of the chandelier, it welcomed gas lighting which led to the birth of gasoliers. It was during this time that chandeliers were slowly converted into gas holders rather than candles. This trend continued till the advent of electrical lighting.

But those days are long gone.

Chandelier History Continued

As production and materials greatly improved over time, so did the look and ornate nature of chandeliers. Materials were no longer limited to metal or wood; other options now include glass, crystals, etc. These lighting fixtures are now even considered as art. They are also status symbols; with the more intricate ones seen to be more sophisticated.

Interestingly, chandeliers are now bigger and more extravagant. Most of the time, the emphasis is no longer just on illumination anymore. Lighting designs have become so artistic that form has taken over function many times.

But, once again, those days are slowly coming to an end.

Lamps and Lighting Uttermost Botanic 4 Light Milk Glass Chandelier 21271

Lamps and Lighting Uttermost Botanic 4 Light Milk Glass Chandelier 21271

Modern Chandeliers

These days, the function over form concept is, once again, being embraced. Rooms are made extra special not solely because of the chandelier’s beauty but more of its achieved function. Modern chandeliers come with the needed lighting for dining rooms, living rooms, even bedrooms. They also still come with that wonderful glow that adds an extra appeal and character in those rooms.

One of the major characteristics of chandeliers these days is versatility. Wherever you place them, they are out to beautify and fulfill their lighting duties.

Modern chandeliers come in different colors, shapes, sizes, styles and patterns. There is also a wide array of materials that you could choose from. Crystals may be the most common design pattern nowadays but one cannot discredit the beauty of glass and metal chandeliers. There are even those that come with faux candles and other such interesting designs.

Home lighting has never been this interesting but just make sure that you get the proper one for your home. Get one that’s too small and it would look like an eye sore there, one that’s totally out of place. Buy a humongous one and you’re left with an overpowering lighting fixture.

Proper sizing is a crucial factor if you don’t want to commit these mistakes. Take the time to measure the height of the ceiling down to the floor. See also if the chandelier is going to be placed above the dining table or the center table in the living room. Make sure that you leave enough room between the furnishings and the chandelier.

Balance is the key to handling the modernized chandelier so be very careful in making your choice.

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Chandelier Decorating Made Achievable

Sunday, June 19th, 2016

Lamps and Lighting Uttermost Ambre 8 Light Gold Sphere Chandelier 21269

Lamps and Lighting Uttermost Ambre 8 Light Gold Sphere Chandelier 21269

One of the chief elements in a well-designed space is lighting. How you light the space in your home reflects how you and other people perceive it. Since lighting is that important, then it just makes sense that you should put ample time in deciding what sort of light you would have for your home. When you mulled over what you want, has your mind ever come across the decorative chandelier? Or are you, just like the others, afraid of using it?

A Design Element of Its Own

The chandelier might just be the right finishing touch that you are waiting to have. It can be rustic, modern, Mid-Century, and just about anything. If you want a timeless look, nothing beats the classic glass or crystal chandelier.

The chandelier can be a scene stealer. They are a great addition to any room but if you don’t know how to handle this decorative lighting’s strong presence, your space might end up looking pretentious.

First, know the size of the chandelier that would fit inside the room. This can present a few setbacks but measuring can eliminate future problems. The right size of chandelier can be computed by adding the room’s dimensions (in feet) and then converting the sum into inches. Your answer should be the same diameter that you would use for the fixture (e.g. a 10’x 15’ room measurement should equate to 25” in diameter.

Consider also the size of the dining table (if you are placing your chandelier inside the dining room). The dining room fixtures’ diameter must be approximately ½ to 2/3 the table’s width. This could be about a oot less than the table’s width (at its widest part).

It is also advisable to use a large chandelier even in a small dining room. Should the fixture appear too large, then be sure to hang it closer to the dining room ceiling. This is so it won’t overwhelm.

Now that you’ve recognized the Do’s, it’s time to find out what the don’ts are. First, no furniture should come close to the chandelier. The minimum amount of distance between the lighting fixture and the furniture should be 48 inches.

Remember also that the chandelier has visual weight. This means that visually heavy chandeliers can be light when carried but the smaller ones could be a tad heavier. Just to save you from measuring the room size all over again, here are the standard measurements –

  • A room that is smaller than 10’x10’ should have a chandelier that measures 17” to 20” in width.
  • A room that is about 12’x12’ should have a chandelier that measures 22” to 27” wide.
  • Lastly, a room that is about 14’x14’ should have a fixture that is 24” to 32” wide.

Whether your taste is mainly traditional or contemporary, there is a chandelier that would suit your needs. You just have to learn the general rules above plus some hanging procedures.

The rule of thumb in hanging chandeliers for dining rooms is that the bottom part of the lighting fixture should hang at 30” to 36” from the tabletop. This is assuming that your home has an 8’ ceiling.

There are designers who recommend that every additional foot on height for the ceiling should be an additional 3” to the chandelier’s suspension height. Not all designers agree, though. There are also those who feel that the height of the ceiling should not, in any way, affect the fixture’s distance from the tabletop. Should you choose to follow the second case, then the best thing to be certain about the chandelier that you’re going to buy is to move it up and down as you prep to install it. You and one other family member can go about with this simple project. Just move the chandelier up or down till you reach the height that you feel is perfect.

Uttermost Lamps and Lighting Brandon, 5 Lt Single Shade Chandelier 21233

Uttermost Lamps and Lighting Brandon, 5 Lt Single Shade Chandelier 21233

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Ceiling Light: 6 Hot Buying Tips

Sunday, February 21st, 2016

 

Lamps and Lighting Uttermost Civenna 3 Light Pendant 21992 is a classy addition to any traditional home.

Lamps and Lighting Uttermost Civenna 3 Light Pendant 21992 is a classy addition to any traditional home.

If you are thinking of updating your ceiling lights, then don’t automatically buy lampshades and settle for those that match your current decor. There is so much more to ceiling light that you should consider such as style, color, uses, and many more. You have now probably come to appreciate the benefits of correct lighting for certain rooms in your home. A simple light fitting can make or break the overall beauty of your home.

So what are the things that you need to consider when investing in ceiling lights? There are a number of aspects to look into but the fundamental one is to find out your lighting needs. Look at the rooms that need immediate ceiling lights then find out which fixtures will enhance those places.

Size Up the Room

First, consider the width of the room. Narrow, lengthy rooms can be quite awkward to illuminate. It would be wrong to install a pendant light into this kind of room, instead, you should use track lighting. Various spotlights can be mounted on a track so the light can be evenly distributed throughout the narrow room.

Kitchen and dining areas would also do well to have track lighting installed. If you want to add a touch of elegance to these rooms, then have the track light come with polished chrome.

The Lamps and Lighting Uttermost Akron 1 Light Copper Mini Pendant 21972 is just right for a rustic surrounding.

The Lamps and Lighting Uttermost Akron 1 Light Copper Mini Pendant 21972 is just right for a rustic surrounding.

Measure the Height

Ceiling lights are those lights that you need to install up there. Chandeliers and pendant lights are perfect for higher ceilings. If your home happens to have a low ceiling which is the case in many modern houses, then use flush or semi-flush fitting instead.

Crystal glass shades will look elegant in a spacious dining area. The more modern, metallic ones will look equally great in a modern setting.

Update Your Lighting

A quick way to update your home lighting is to replace the existing shades. This is your lazy option, of course, and there is nothing wrong with it. For as long as you stylize it correctly, then you can actually get away with it. If you have been using a transparent shade for the longest time, then why not change to a more modern pastel shade? This is especially restful inside the bedroom.

Keeping it simple is also a good way to update your lights. Use streamlined designs for modern homes and the more ornate ones are perfect for those who live in a traditional setting.

Those who want to make a bold statement, on the other hand, can always use lighting fixtures with funky designs and colors.

Lamps and Lighting Uttermost Gironico Round 5 Light Pendant 21997

Lamps and Lighting Uttermost Gironico Round 5 Light Pendant 21997

Know the Ceiling Light Issues

One of the concerns for lighting a wet room is that – it is wet. If you do not know what an IP rating is, it is a way to measure how well each fitting can be protected from water or dust. IP 44, for instance, is a rating that is just right for the bathroom.

Another issue with ceiling light installation is how to childproof it. This should be done in rooms that are predominantly used by many children. Of course, you would want your light to be child-friendly while providing your illumination needs.

If your little ones want to fall asleep while the lights are still on, then find a diffuser for that particular room.

What Is the Level of Illumination

You should also think about the amount of light that you would need in each room. Each room requires different lighting. The kitchen, for instance, is lit differently from the bedroom; as is the home office from the home bar.

Larger rooms also require bigger and brighter lights. Alternatively, there are smaller fittings for rooms that do not need an awful amount of light. The lighting style which you are trying to achieve also makes a huge difference on what kind of ceiling light you will use.

Be Efficient Yet Visually Pleasant

Low energy or LED lighting are worth your investment since they can save you lots of money in the long run. Ceiling lights have to develop a sense of harmony with the rest of the home design. It would be pointless to save some money only to be left with an unattractive ceiling light right in the middle of a room.

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