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The Spruce / Lecia Landis
Chandeliers are an excellent choice when you want something with more grandeur than flush, track, or recessed lights—and they're not just for hanging over a dining room table. "There are styles for every type of interior design," says Annie Kersey, lead designer at Purple Cherry Architects. "Drum, orb, sputnik, beaded, cage, globe, crystal, waterfall—the list goes on and on."
With guidance from Kersey in mind, we researched standout fixtures for every room and decor taste. Boasting contemporary clean lines with a classic appeal, our favorite is the Kichler Crosby 5 Light Chandelier.
Check out the best chandeliers below.
Best Overall
Kichler Crosby 5 Light 26" Wide Chandelier
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Sturdy steel frame
Elegant and versatile
Four finishes available
Bulbs not included
With so many styles out there, it's hard to pick just one chandelier. But if you want something elegant and versatile that goes with various decor aesthetics, the Kichler Crosby is a solid choice. This piece is made of steel and comes in four finishes (chrome, old bronze, brushed nickel, and black) to match other fixtures throughout your space, like door knobs, drawer pulls, and faucets.
It has five lights within clear glass shades and takes E12 candelabra-style bulbs up to 60 watts. You'll have to buy the bulbs separately, and you can opt for LEDs if you want to save energy.
The Crosby can be installed on a flat or sloped ceiling, and the included chain can hang anywhere from 20 to 72 inches. This chandelier comes with all the necessary hardware, including a canopy. Since it weighs just 10.5 pounds, installation should be relatively easy, but don't hesitate to hire a professional if you're not up for it.
Price at time of publish: $310 for the black model
Material: Steel, glass | Dimensions: 26 x 22 inches | Minimum Hanging Height: 20 inches | Maximum Hanging Height: 72 inches | Number of Bulbs: 5
Best Budget
Lark Manor Richeson 6-Light Candle Style Empire Chandelier
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Budget-friendly
Traditional/industrial style
Sloped-ceiling adaptable
Bulbs not included
On a budget? Check out the Lark Manor Richeson Chandelier. With a metal frame, upward-sweeping arms, and exposed bulbs, this empire-style light fixture is traditional with an industrial flair.
It takes six E12 candelabra bulbs (LED or incandescent), which you'll have to buy separately. The Richeson comes with all the hardware needed for installation. We also like that it's compatible with sloped ceilings and dimmer switches.
Price at time of publish: $131
Material: Metal | Dimensions: 23 x 23 inches | Minimum Hanging Height: 24 inches | Maximum Hanging Height: 120 inches | Number of Bulbs: 6
Best Splurge
Pottery Barn Windham Alabaster Tile Round Chandelier
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Modern appeal
Bulbs included
Made in Fair Trade facility
Expensive
Only one finish available
If you can swing the steep price, the Windham Alabaster Chandelier from Pottery Barn is an excellent choice. This modern, wheel-style fixture has a steel and brass frame with alabaster tile embellishments. Six LED candelabra bulbs are included.
As with many of Pottery Barn's offerings, this chandelier is Fair Trade certified, meaning that it's made by fairly paid workers in a safe facility. The unit is compatible with a flat or sloped ceiling, but professional mounting and hardwiring are recommended.
Price at time of publish: $999
Material: Steel, brass, tile | Dimensions: 42 x 5 inches | Minimum Hanging Height: 22 inches | Maximum Hanging Height: 59 inches | Number of Bulbs: 6
Best Crystal
Laurel Foundry Modern Farmhouse Hallum 12-Light Unique Tiered Chandelier with Crystal Accents
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Real crystal
Glamorous aesthetic
Compatible with dimmer
Heavy
Bulbs not included
We also like this classic crystal chandelier from Laurel Foundry. The glammed-up design features a wrought iron frame in your choice of black or chrome and real crystal embellishments in a tiered formation.
The Hallum takes 12 candelabra bulbs (not included) to deliver bright illumination that really makes it sparkle. It's also dimmer-compatible for an adjustable ambiance. We should note that due to the iron base and hundreds of crystals, it weighs 68 pounds, which might make installation tricky.
Price at time of publish: $880
Material: Wrought iron, crystal | Dimensions: 32 x 27 inches | Minimum Hanging Height: 44 inches | Maximum Hanging Height: 83 inches | Number of Bulbs: 12
Best Iron
Franklin Iron Works Myland 27" Wide Bronze Metal 6-Light Chandelier
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Traditional style
Sloped-ceiling adaptable
Compatible with dimmer
Bulbs not included
Assembly required
You can't go wrong with a traditional iron chandelier. We like this one from Franklin Iron Works, which features a wagon-wheel frame with an oil-rubbed bronze finish and six exposed candelabra-style bulbs (sold separately).
This fixture is sloped-ceiling adaptable and compatible with a dimmer switch. Note that you'll have to assemble it at home and that you may want to hire a professional for hardwiring and installation.
Price at time of publish: $300
Material: Iron | Dimensions: 28 x 27 inches | Minimum Hanging Height: 28 inches | Maximum Hanging Height: 100 inches | Number of Bulbs: 6
Best Beaded
Creative Co-Op Wooden Beaded Chandelier Light Fixture
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Rustic/boho style
Two sizes
Five colors available
Pricey
Bulbs not included
This beaded piece is a slightly rustic, boho-inspired take on the classic chandelier. It has an intentionally tarnished metal frame with strings of wooden beads that drape down like chunky layered jewelry.
You can choose from two sizes and five bead colors, including natural wood, white, blue, mint, and distressed black. This chandelier calls for three standard bulbs up to 25 watts, which you'll need to buy separately. We wish the price were a little more accessible, but other than that, we have no complaints.
Price at time of publish: $393
Material: Wood, metal | Dimensions: 28 x 20 inches, 25 x 26 inches | Minimum Hanging Height: 20 inches | Maximum Hanging Height: 87 inches | Number of Bulbs: 3
Best Linear
Hampton Bay Boswell Quarter 5-Light Industrial Linear Hanging Chandelier
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Reasonably priced
Three finishes available
Coordinating collection
Bulbs not included
Unlike traditional chandeliers, linear fixtures have a more compact, modern look that works well for long dining tables, entryways and hallways, and other potentially cramped spaces. And whether you're looking for style or practicality, the Hampton Bay Boswell Chandelier has you covered.
This handsome light fixture has a metal frame in your choice of brushed nickel, distressed black, or vintage brass. It takes five standard LED or incandescent bulbs, which are sold separately. We recommend Edison-style bulbs for a warmer ambiance. For a more cohesive decor scheme, you can pair this chandelier with other pieces from the Boswell line, including a flush mount, vanity light, or pendant.
Price at time of publish: $229
Material: Metal | Dimensions: 34 x 20 x 11 inches | Minimum Hanging Height: 20 inches | Maximum Hanging Height: 83 inches | Number of Bulbs: 5
Best Capiz
CB2 Teardrops Capiz Chandelier
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Handmade by artisans
Cascading tiers
Elegant design
Some assembly required
Bulb not included
We're also fans of the Teardrops Capiz Chandelier from CB2. It features a sturdy iron frame, and as the name suggests, teardrop-shaped capiz shells that cascade down in delicate tiers.
This piece is handcrafted by skilled artisans who lacquer the shells, frame them in thin brass bands, then string them together. It's made in the Philippines, where windowpane oysters (the source of capiz) are abundant. Some assembly is required.
Price at time of publish: $399
Material: Iron, metal, capiz shells | Dimensions: 28 x 24 inches | Minimum Hanging Height: 6 inches | Maximum Hanging Height: 95 inches | Number of Bulbs: 1
Best Ring
Vonn Tania Single Light 24" Wide LED Ring Chandelier
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Minimalist-modern style
Energy-efficient LED
Five-year warranty
Large canopy
If your decor taste leans minimalist-modern, consider a ring-style chandelier. The Vonn Tania Light features a single integrated LED, so you won't have to worry about buying or replacing bulbs. It's also energy-efficient, using substantially less wattage than incandescent bulbs.
The ring is suspended by three thin cables, which you can easily adjust, even after installing it. We're big fans of the pared-down, low-profile design.
One thing to note is that the canopy (ceiling mount) is 11 inches in diameter—nearly double the average size.
Price at time of publish: $360
Material: Acrylic, aluminum | Dimensions: 24 x 17 inches | Minimum Hanging Height: 17 inches | Maximum Hanging Height: 120 inches | Number of Bulbs: N/A
Best Sputnik
Lights.com 18-Light Aged Brass Sputnik Chandelier
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Midcentury appeal
Seven bulb options
Sloped ceiling adapter
Only one finish available
Some assembly required
Extra fee for bulbs
Inspired by the world's first orbiting satellite, sputnik chandeliers have a cool midcentury vibe. We like this one from Lights.com. It features 18 multi-directional rods of three different lengths, which you'll have to attach yourself.
The bulbs are sold separately, though you have the option to add one of seven styles to your order for an extra fee. And while there's only one finish available, the aged-brass frame is undeniably chic.
Price at time of publish: $349
Material: Metal | Dimensions: 29 x 12.5 inches | Minimum Hanging Height: 18 inches | Maximum Hanging Height: 54 inches | Number of Bulbs: 18
Best Traditional
Birch Lane Ableton Dimmable Classic / Traditional Chandelier
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Reasonably priced
Four sizes and finishes
Dimmable
Bulbs not included
Have a more traditional design in mind? You might like the Birch Lane Ableton Chandelier. It's available in four classic finishes and four sizes, each with a metal frame, six curved arms, and candlestick-inspired bulb sockets.
This reasonably priced chandelier takes B12 candelabra bulbs up to 40 watts (sold separately). The exposed-bulb style offers ample illumination, but it's also conveniently dimmable.
Price at time of publish: $115
Material: Metal | Dimensions: 4 sizes available | Minimum Hanging Height: 18 inches | Maximum Hanging Height: 85 inches | Number of Bulbs: 6
Best Modern
West Elm Sculptural Glass 3-Light Faceted Chandelier
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Three finishes available
Multiple shade options
Contract-grade durability
Bulbs not included
West Elm makes our favorite modern option. The Sculptural Glass Faceted Chandelier has a sleek metal frame in your choice of antique brass, antique bronze, or polished nickel. Three geometric shades suspend from the canopy. You can pick from clear or milky-white opaque shades in two diameters.
This contract-grade fixture is built for long-lasting durability, and while we wouldn't call it budget-friendly, it's more affordable than many other chandeliers from West Elm. If you're not up for hardwiring and mounting it, you can add professional installation to your order.
Price at time of publish: $239
Material: Metal, glass | Dimensions: 14 x 14 inches | Minimum Hanging Height: 16 inches | Maximum Hanging Height: 80 inches | Number of Bulbs: 3
Best Boho
Anthropologie Bungalow Chandelier
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Fibrous jute shade
Plug-in or hardwire installation
Compatible with dimmer
Bulb not included
Professional hardwiring required
We also love Anthropologie's Bungalow Chandelier. This bohemian-inspired piece has a steel canopy and a two-tiered fibrous jute shade suspended from a plastic cord.
It comes with all the necessary hardware and can be hung at an adjustable height. The Bungalow Chandelier is also fitted for plug-in installation and has an on/off switch, but if you opt to hardwire it, Anthropologie says professional installation is required.
Price at time of publish: $268
Material: Jute, steel, plastic | Dimensions: 22 x 16 inches | Minimum Hanging Height: Not listed | Maximum Hanging Height: Not listed | Number of Bulbs: Not listed
Our top choice is the Kichler Crosby 5 Light Chandelier. Available in four finishes, this piece is the perfect balance of modern and traditional, with a versatile aesthetic that'll work in virtually any space. If you're interested in a classic crystal design, the Laurel Foundry Modern Farmhouse Hallum 12-Light Tiered Chandelier is your best bet.
What to Look for in a Chandelier
Size
Size is probably the most important factor when it comes to picking a chandelier. Take measurements of the room before you start shopping to make sure you'll get the right size fixture. And it's not just about the dimensions of the chandelier itself—you have to consider the height at which it hangs, too. In a dining room, for example, you'll want to have your chandelier rest about 36 inches above the table or 72 inches off the floor.
Bulbs
Most chandeliers are sold without light bulbs, which means you'll likely have to buy them separately. Keep in mind there are different types of lightbulbs out there, from LEDs to incandescent to smart bulbs, which come in a variety of shapes.
"Your chandelier may require a special type of bulb, depending on the socket size," says Sheva Knopfler, co-founder and creative director of Lights.com. "Some take an E12 bulb, also known as a 'candelabra bulb,' and others take E26 bulbs, which is a standard size."
Ease of Installation
Chandeliers aren't the easiest fixtures to install on your own, between the technical expertise of hardwiring and the structural know-how of how much weight your specific ceiling can hold. If you plan on DIY-ing the installation, consider the ease of hanging it—larger, heavier fixtures tend to be tricker.
"If you feel comfortable and are confident in your installation knowledge, go for it," says Knopfler, noting that most chandeliers come with step-by-step guidelines. "There are also plenty of videos on YouTube about installing different lights."
Hiring a pro is the best option in many cases. "There is no shame in keeping your installation safe and hazard-free," says Knopfler. "Remember, you are dealing with electricity." If you don't plan to DIY, factor the cost of professional hardwiring into your budget.
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Where can you hang a chandelier?
Chandeliers are traditionally hung over dining tables, but that's far from your only option. "Great room, bedroom, bathroom, over a closet island, over a kitchen island, above an outdoor dining room—there is no limit," says Annie Kersey, lead designer at Purple Cherry Architects, who recommends thinking about placement before browsing options. "Ultimately, I choose a chandelier to highlight an important moment in the interior design."
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How high should a chandelier be above a table?
"I recommend hanging a chandelier no less than 36 inches and no more than 40 inches from the top of the table to the bottom of the fixture," says Kersey. If your ceiling is higher than 8 feet, raise the chandelier height by 3 inches for every additional inch of ceiling height.
Bear in mind that this is just a guideline. Many designers consider it more modern to hang a chandelier a bit lower to ground the dining area and create a pleasing ambient light for diners.
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How do you install a chandelier?
Installing a chandelier requires attaching electrical wires to ceiling wiring and then screwing in a decorative ceiling plate ("canopy") to conceal and protect the wiring. Chandeliers are delicate and can be heavier than other light fixtures, so it's important to hang them securely, which may include installing a special electrical box that can support their weight.
A licensed electrician is the safest bet to ensure that your chandelier is properly wired and supported. In any case, Knopfler says to "always shut off the power at your breaker box before beginning the installation."
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How do you change a chandelier?
Switching out a chandelier requires switching off the electricity, unscrewing the decorative ceiling plate that usually covers chandelier wiring, disconnecting the light fixture from ceiling wires, and reattaching the new light fixture. Keep in mind that heavy chandeliers can be difficult to move, and swapping them out is generally a two-person job that requires a ladder and may require installing an electrical box that can support the extra weight. If in doubt, hire a professional, especially if you are working with a heavy vintage or antique light fixture.
Why Trust The Spruce?
For this story, Theresa Holland interviewed Sheva Knopfler, co-founder and creative director of Lights.com, and Annie Kersey, lead interior designer at Purple Cherry Architects. With their expert insights in mind, she considered myriad chandeliers from various brands and retailers. The selected models are stylish, functional, and versatile enough to work in a wide range of spaces.
Holland has been writing for The Spruce since 2019, covering home decor, organizational solutions, lifestyle products, and consumer tech. You can read more of her articles on Travel + Leisure, Byrdie, and People.
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