Publications
A grand entrance hall calls for lighting that is equally dramatic. While chandeliers can have a place in every room of the home, it’s most fitting in this location. But remember: the chandelier you select for this space will set the tone for the rest of your home, so choose carefully. While the design of the chandelier is important, you should also pay close attention to the quality and type of lighting it offers, where it will be positioned, as well as where you want the light to focus.
Design
Remember, a chandelier suspended above a staircase will be viewed from different angles. People on the top floor will view it from the landing and as they walk down the staircase, while those walking upstairs will initially view the design details from a lower angle. Think about the statement you want this light fixture to make as people enter your home. If you have windows or glass doors in front of the staircase, consider how the chandelier looks from the outside.
With so many different designs on the market, it can be difficult to pick a chandelier that is going to suit your space perfectly. If you’re having a hard time narrowing down your options, look to your staircase bannister for inspiration. What colours, shapes and, most importantly, materials are used. Try to match this with a specific chandelier for a cohesive look. It doesn’t have to be a perfect match, but a similar colour or complementary material will work well.
Size
You want to ensure that the size of your chandelier is appropriate for the space in which it is suspended. You already know that a double volume hallway and staircase demands a fixture with large dimensions, but keep in mind that you don’t want anyone to hit their head on the bottom of the fixture as they near the top of the staircase. You also don't want children to be tempted to touch it from the top landing. Measure the space between the stairs, the railing and the ceiling to ensure there is enough clearance space for the chandelier.
Ceiling load
Be sure that you have a secure anchor in the ceiling to attach the chandelier to. There’s no guarantee that your current ceiling load capacity is going to be able to handle a heavy load. A contractor or home builder should be able to determine the exact weight limit, so consult one before purchasing the fixture. It’s unlikely that a standard ceiling electrical box will hold excess weight. However, if you have your heart set on an exceptionally heavy chandelier, you can replace your current electrical box with one meant for a ceiling fan, as these usually have a higher weight limit.
To get your creative juices flowing, have a look here at the available chandeliers at Radiant Lighting or visit their homepage for more options.
