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Chandelier Size Guide – How Big Should My Chandelier Be?

Do you want a chandelier for your dining table, bedroom or bathroom. It sounds so decadent in the bathroom. If you are in the market for a chandelier you might be wondering what size to get.

chandelier size guide

Chandeliers can hang in so many places and they come in every style and finish. You don’t want your chandelier to look too small or too large. There are a few guidelines that will help you choose the right size chandelier for every room.

The guidelines for size depend on where you will hang the chandelier. Is it going to hang an open area, like a bedroom or living room, or over a table? Believe it or not, there’s a simple formula for how big your chandelier should be.

Chandelier Size Rules For A Bedroom or Living Room?

Chandeliers are not just beautiful over a table. They can also make a bolder statement than a pendant light in an entry, a bathroom, bedroom, living room or even a closet (if you are lucky enough to have a large one). If you have a two-story foyer or any room with a high ceiling, a chandelier is a natural focal point for your design whether it’s modern, traditional or anything in between.

Chandelier Size Guide

Diameter of the Chandelier – The rule of thumb for how large your lighting fixture or chandelier should be in any room is pretty simple. Take the width of the room in feet and add that to the length of the room in feet. For example, if the room size is 15 feet by 21 feet. The sum of those two is 36. The ideal size chandelier for my living room should be 36 inches wide.

Similarly, if you are hanging a chandelier in a bathroom that is 5 feet by 10 feet your chandelier should be around 15 inches wide. You don’t have to use the exact measurement that the calculation dictates, but the general rule helps you with proportion. Small spaces require a small chandelier.

chandelier in a bedroom

Height of the Chandelier – Now that you know how wide your chandelier should be, let’s look at height. Tall ceilings can accommodate a fixture with more vertical height.

Generally, the chandelier should be 2-3 in height for each foot of ceiling height. A standard 8-foot ceiling would hold a 16 to 24-inch tall chandelier. However, if you have 8-foot ceilings, stick to the lower end of the range. You don’t want people to feel like they need to duck. If you have low ceilings, you can also consider flush mount chandeliers.

If you have 10-foot ceilings, you have more room to work with. If your chandelier will hang over a stairway, use the total height of the space to calculate the best height of the light fixture. Sizing is all about what looks in proportion to your room. Taller ceilings hold taller fixtures.

How Big of a Chandelier Do I Need Over a Table? (with video)

A dining room chandelier is a little different. First, let’s talk about width. You take the width of your table and subtract 12 inches. If your table is 36 inches wide the width of the perfect chandelier size would be 24 inches wide.

found rug in dining room

For the length of the table you want to make sure that the chandelier’s length is at least 12 inches less than the table.

For example, my table is 83 inches long, which would suggest I could use a chandelier up to 70 inches long. This is the rule that designers use. But if your table is really long, this might not be possible. It does help you to see that you need a pretty large fixture to have it look in proportion to your table. You can also consider hanging two small chandeliers over a single table.

For any table you will want to stick to this rule of thumb – keep the chandelier width 12 inches less than the width or length of the table. You don’t want people to bump into it when they stand up.

Does Table Shape Impact The Shape of Chandelier?

If your table is long and narrow, the width will limit how wide you should go (at least 12 inches less than the table). For a table that is greater than 60 inches in length, you should consider a chandelier that is similarly shaped – long and narrow.

Here’s an example with a rectangular table from Ballard Designs and a chandelier from Ballard Designs. The calculation above suggests a chandelier size of 52 inches (64-12). First, this is not really a size that you could find, but it does help you to see that something 24 inches will look way too small. For this type of table, something more linear will be a better fit.

The shape of your chandelier should complement the shape of the chandelier. A round kitchen table looks best with a chandelier that is either round or square. For long narrow tables, you may want to consider a chandelier that is more rectangular than round.

This is an example with a round table from France & Sons paired with this West Elm chandelier.

You may notice as you start shopping for your chandelier, that there is no fixture that perfectly matches the dimensions you are looking for. The key is to find a light that isn’t too small or too large. These measurement rules are guidelines to help make sure you get close to the right proportion.

How Low Should a Chandelier Hang Over A Table?

A chandelier hung over a table should be 30 to 34 inches above the bottom of the table. The height isn’t based on the height of your ceiling. Your chandelier height should be close enough to the table that it will light up the table more than a ceiling light would. But you also don’t want the light to be so close that people hit their heads when they stand up from the table.

If you have a fixture that hangs from a chain, it is easy to adjust the height of your chandelier after you live with it for a few days. If your chandelier appears to have a fixed height because it has a pole (like this one) it’s harder to adjust the length, but not impossible.

chandelier height over table

How To Lengthen A Chandelier (so it hangs lower)

If you want the bottom of the chandelier to be closer to your dining room table you can add more wire and more chain.

The first step is to turn the breaker off to your light and disconnect the screws that hold the light fixture up. Sometimes there is extra wire wrapped up inside the fixture. If there isn’t, this post explains how to do extend the wires even if you aren’t very handy.

You can easily make the chain longer if it hangs on a chain. If it hangs on a pole you can usually buy a longer pole in a finish that matches your fixture. Just search for oil rubbed extension rod or brushed nickel extension rod to find these at any major lighting supplier.

How to Shorten a Chandelier (so it hangs higher)

If you have the opposite problem it’s solved in basically the same way. To raise your chandelier so it hangs farther from the dining room table you might be able to pull the wires up inside the ceiling. If not, you will need to shorten the wires/chain or rod.

The method for shortening the wires is much the same as it is for lengthening it. You trim the wires after you have the breaker shut off. You can take links out of the chain if it hangs from a chain. You can also get a shorter rod if your chandelier doesn’t hang from a chain.

How to Hang Multiple Chandeliers/Pendants?

If you have a very long table you might want to consider hanging more than one light fixture. It can even be less expensive to hang two smaller chandeliers instead of one large one.

You can hang two pendant lights as well. The spacing rules for hanging two chandeliers are first, they should be 24 to 28 inches apart. Second, neither fixture should be closer than 6 inches from the edges of the table. It is similar to how you light a kitchen island.

Can a Chandelier Be Too Big?

A chandelier can be too large for a space, just like it can be too small. Most people make the mistake of putting a fixture that is too small rather than too large. If you stick close to the measurement guidelines above, the scale should be just right. Over a table use the length and width minus 12.

There is a trend to hang GIANT lights over a table like the one in this photo. If you LOVE the way that looks, that’s the most important consideration, but remember that it is a trend and it might not always be in style.

fixture too big for table

Should a chandelier be in the center of the table?

What if your table is not in the middle of the room?

If you are hanging a chandelier over a table that is NOT in the center of your dining room it should be hung centered over the table. If you hang it in the center of the room it can make your table feel like it’s in the wrong place.

The Bottom Line

If you are shopping for a chandelier, consider the size relative room width and room length. If you’re looking for a chandelier to hang above a table, focus more on the dimensions of your table. Use the formulas as a guide to help you look for something that will be proportional. There is not one correct size.

If you have questions, ask them in the comments and share photos. It helps everyone.

choosing the right size chandelier

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79 Comments

  1. What helpful information that I will definitely save for later. Happy Monday, sweet friend!?

  2. Whoa, where was this when we finally found something we liked for over our tavern room table? Fortunately, taking 3 years to find the right fixture, we ended up with one that was the correct size! This is such a great tool to keep in mind! I have pinned this for future reference! Thanks Andrea!!

  3. Mary from Life at Bella Terra says:

    Andrea, Another GREAT post! This is so informational. One of my friends just bought a very expensive chandelier and didn’t bother measuring her dining room table. Yep, the chandelier is oversized for the room and table. I wish I had seen your post as I would have sent it to her beforehand! This is a keeper!

    1. I brought my chandelier from our old house to a new smaller house. It fights with the painting on the wall. Can I hang it in the middle of my butlers pantry (which is the former dining room)?

      1. Yes! I would. Love a chandelier in a butlers pantry.

  4. I have a table 120” x 39.5”. We have a vaulted ceiling. Would two round chandeliers 25.5” high, 35.5” wide be appropriate size?
    Thanks

    1. Yes that size would work. It can be hard to find the exact size you decide is right. If you find one you like and it’s not the exact right size, I recommend erring on the side of larger.

  5. Tamara K von Ouhl Kremer says:

    I have a living room that is sectioned into 3 rectangles by beams. I plan on putting the same chandelier in each section. 9×15 which is 24. If I like a 16″ square is that to small? Or do I go with the a 26 round? In order of preference 16″ but worried it will be to small in each section? There is a 26 which is 2″ bigger and will three of them be to much?

    1. Tamara,

      I would probably go for the larger one if it’s a fixture that can be a statement in the room. There is almost never exactly the right size with the formula, but that’s pretty close. Would you be interested in sending me a photo? I’ll email you as well.

      Andrea

      1. Kimberly keith says:

        We are adding a addition family room with fireplace and 3 beams.
        It is a A frame high ceiling. The room is 20 by 20.
        I found a chandelier 36 inches I want to hang in center or room from beam.
        My husband wants to add 2 low profile fans for fireplace.
        I am at a loss for sizes I would need.
        Could you please advise me?

        1. Kimberly,

          Thanks for your question. I have a post all about how to light a room with vaulted ceilings that might help (https://www.designmorsels.com/how-to-light-a-vaulted-ceiling-the-complete-guide/). In a room 20×20 you should look for a 40″ fixture. If there is a style you like I’m happy to send ideas. There are lots of large round ones that could be a good fit. When you say to low profile fans, would the light go between them in the middle?

          Andrea

  6. I have a home office that is 12′ x 12′ with an 11 ft ceiling for which I purchased a beautiful 40″ wide Casilda chandelier. But now I am afraid it may be too wide. What do you think?

    1. Faith,

      I think since you ordered it and you LOVE it you should use it. Here’s why. First, eleven-foot ceilings are high so they can accommodate a larger fixture. Second, I think we tend to err on the side of too small and not too big. Third, you don’t often find a fixture that fits the exact formula, they are either a little too small or a little too big. Hang it up and stand back and see what you think. If it feels too big once it’s in the room, then return it. If you love it, that’s what counts most.

      Andrea

  7. I want to put a 36″ wide wagon wheel chandelier over my 48″ x 72″ table. Is my table too long for this?

    1. Linda,

      Using a round chandelier over a rectangular table might require a different formula. I think 36″ is large enough not to look too small. I wouldn’t go larger because it will be in the way of people sitting on the side. If you’re going to go with round, this is probably a good size. The best way to judge is by hanging it up and seeing if you like it. I hope this helps.

      Andrea

  8. Joyce Lynn Pease says:

    Found a 30″ round drum chandelier for my entryway. I have 12′ ceiling, entryway opens to family room. Chandelier will hang in section 10′ long by 7ish’ wide. It’ll be between a wide opening to den and another opening to guest bedrooms and guest bath. So it appears open. Do you thing 30″ drum chandelier will work. Thank you.

    1. Joyce,

      Based on the formula that sounds a little large for the space. It should be closer to 20″ if they have a smaller size. BUT you should go with your gut. If you LOVE the fixture, get it. Do you want to share a photo? That would be great.

      Andrea

  9. Joanne Mitchener says:

    My living room is 20×20 with a 20’ cathedral ceiling . What size chandelier? Should I consider the height of the light fixture?

    1. Joanne,

      I would try to get a pretty sizeable chandelier, 40 inches or larger. Since the ceilings are so high you can err on the too big side vs too small. I’m not sure what you mean by considering the height of the fixture. I think it would look strange to hang the fixture too high unless it’s a vaulted entry. Otherwise, the fixture doesn’t really look like it’s part of the room. I hope this helps.

      Andrea

  10. I have a rectangular dining room table that is 90″ long x 42″ wide. Will a 48″ long chandelier work?
    The width of the chandelier is 9.25″

    1. Lori,

      It’s hard to find a fixture that meets the exact formula, but the one you have picked up sounds like it will work well. I’d love to see photos of your table and the fixture if you want to share. You can email me at [email protected]. Enjoy your new lighting.

      Sorry this took a few days.

      Andrea

  11. Ok, so here is one. I have a kitchen banquette at the end of an alley kitchen. The space is 7ft 11 in x 7ft 9 in and the kitchen table 42 inches. So, 30 inches diameter for the pendant or 15 inches?

    1. Kerri,

      If the light will hand over the table, use that as your guide instead of the size of the room. Is your table 42″ round? If so 30″ would be great.

      I am happy to loo at pictures if you want share send them to [email protected].

      Andrea

    2. I have a standard dark wood table 90 in long x 42 wide in a beach house. I would like to place two chandeliers over dining room table . The bottom of table has white washed legs w dk bronze metal scroll in the center between legs. Do you have suggestions for size or type. Wish I could send u picture.

      1. Gigi,
        Check your email. I sent you a list of chandeliers that work well with long tables. Watch for a post on that tomorrow.
        Andrea

  12. Pam Demoulas says:

    will 24 inch round chandelier look good over a 42 inch round table?

    1. Pam,

      In most cases I would say yes, but in your situation the chandelier you like is VERY tall and your ceilings are not that high. I sent you an email with concern a few similar options that are 24 inches around but LESS than 36 inches tall. I hope this helps.

      Anndrea

  13. Mary Sue Hooyman says:

    My table is 42×120 with 8.5‘ ceiling. Should I go with a rectangular chandelier? I would prefer only one chandelier and my style is colonial.
    Thanks for your help

    1. Mary,

      That’s a pretty long table so I would search for a rectangular one. If you search for “colonial rectangular chandelier” there are options at almost every price point. If you want help I’m happy send some your way if you reply with the finish (brass, black, etc) and what price you are trying to stay under.

      I hope this helps.

      Andrea

  14. Debra Affinito says:

    I have a 60” round table in an open concept space, the dining area is 14×15 and the ceilings are 9’6”. I have fallen in love with a 40” wide x 24” tall single tier round candle chandelier, it is airy rather than heavy. The sample fixture also comes 24”. Can I do the 40”, or is it too big? Does the fact that the space is open concept allow me to exceed the 14+15=29” chandelier rule and instead lean toward the table width – 12”?

    1. Debra,

      First, thanks for giving me so many details. Since you are IN LOVE with the fixture you should get it. It’s not too big for your table. The formula isn’t exact, and I think it’s better to go too big than too small. Also, your room IS large and your ceilings are pretty high. All these factors point to the size you chose.

      The 40″ size still leaves 10″ on each side so that no one will bump their head when they are standing up.

      I would love to see pictures if you are inclined to send them.

      Andrea

    2. Hi,

      I really enjoyed this detail post. But I need your insight. I am trying to hang a double wagon wheel chandelier in the great family room that has 19ft cathedral ceiling and the room is 20X17. However, I want this to be the statement of that area. I’m confused between 50inch diameter and 63 inch diameter. The one with 40 inch diameter looks really small. If you can help. Thank you

      1. Hello,

        The ceiling are so high that I would err on the side of larger. I think I would go with 50″. If someone in your family uses a hoola hoop you could measure that and hang it up in the space. I am a visual person, so that kind of thing helps me to see the proportions. Or use something similar, that has the same diameter. I hope this helps. Thanks for reading.

        Andrea

  15. I’ve been trying to figure out what size light fixture to get for our dining room. The problem is that my table is not centered to the dining room. If I center it, we can’t use the stools at the bar… the other part is we have two can (recessed lights) in the center of the room, our dining room is 13X15…. Idk what to do!!! Please help me….

    1. Patricia,

      This is a great question. My table is not in the center of my room either. The important thing is that the chandelier is in the center of the table, not the room. Is there a recessed light right in the middle of the table if you put the table where you want it to be? Feel free to send a picture. I hope this helps

      Andrea

  16. Hi,

    I’m planning on one of the below chandeliers with either 3 arms or 5 arms but I’m not sure about sizing. The ceilings are a little higher than 9ft and the living space is 12 feet long by 10 ft wide. It is a brooklyn apartment (and very narrow). The kitchen will be next to this space, making it open concept. I could probably have the etsy seller customize but would either of these work for this space?

    The 3 arm measurements: Height: 11 inches
    Width: 30 inches
    Depth: 30 inches

    The 5 arm measurements:
    Height: 11 inches
    Width: 32 inches
    Depth: 32 inches

    https://www.etsy.com/listing/932229561/stilnovo-style-5-arms-modern-brass?click_key=3d37010ab20b0bb90b64b4e1cb73373bd41d75fc%3A932229561&click_sum=5322c59d&ref=shop_home_recs_3&frs=1&crt=1

    1. Karly,

      If the formula gives you an answer that is in between sizes, I usually lean toward the larger one. This is really cut. The size of your room (including the kitchen?) makes it seem like the 5-arm one is perfect. The size difference is only two inches so I think either would work. If you need more light I would go for the 5-arm.

      I hope this helps.

      Andrea

  17. Hi!
    I need help picking the size of a chandelier for an open living room. The open space is 26’8” by
    26’ 8”. Half this space is the kitchen and the other half is the living room. So the actual
    Living room size is 13’ 4” by 26’8”. The ceilings are only 9 feet high. Really need you help!
    Thanks!

    1. Sharon,

      For a kitchen you really need lighting to be able to see what you’re doing. For that reason, I would light the kitchen and living room areas separately. Kitchens need task lighting, while living areas DON’T need to be as bright. For the living room area I would get something around 39 inches. It helps to see a photo if you want to send one.

      I hope this helps.

      Andrea

      I hope this helps,

      1. Thanks for your response. I like two different chandeliers – one is 34” in length and the other is 43” in length. Which would you choose based off of recommended 39”?

        1. How tall are your ceilings? If they are over 9 feet I would go with the taller one. If they are 8 feet, I might go with the shorter length.

          I hope this helps.

          Andrea

  18. Rachel Buerman says:

    Hello!

    I have a 2-story entry 16’ x 13.5’ (including stairs and balcony) with 17’ ceiling that visually opens to the living room which is 18’ x 21.5.’ I’m wondering if a 41”w x 48”h chandelier I found is too big for the foyer.

    1. Rachel,
      I would base the formula for the entry ONLY on the size of that space. Look at your living room as a separate room even though they are visually connected. The formula for your entry is 29 inches. Since the space has a lot of height you can get a fixture that is tall. I hope this helps. If you send a photo I am happy to send a few ideas that might match with your style.

      Andrea

      1. Andrea,

        With the formula, how much leeway can you give? I found another chandelier, but the width is 35” with a 40.5” height? Better to go taller than wider? I have a traditional/farmhouse decorating style, but also love some of the “staircase chandeliers” I’d consider more modern (Stair Crystal Chandelier LED Modern Pendant Light Raindrop Ceiling Light Crystal Ball Lighting Fixture 36 Lights for Staircase Living Room Hotel Hallway Foyer Entry Way (36-Light Square) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08PBLFN6M/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_1DTT73VS8M5HKSFAHBBK?psc=1) or overly ornate/crystal (APBEAM Contemporary Crystal Raindrop Staircase Chandelier, Pendant Lighting Suspension Light Fixtures for Stair Foyer Entryway 32″W x 96″H https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XBWK2WR/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_E7GNMTR7RB6YQYBJVPEA?psc=1) or (https://www.1800lighting.com/elegant-lighting-century-30-inch-large-pendant-CP27420.html)

        1. Rachel,

          The formula isn’t really for the height. It’s for the width. With your high ceilings in the entry you can really use a tall light. Taller is fine as long as your ceilings can handle it. I wonder though you said you like farmhouse/traditional, but these chandeliers are very glamorous. Have you looked at this site, there are some really gorgeous lights that are a little more traditional and less glam. Sophisticated Sophia, or parchment glass. Want to share a picture? Feel free to email me at [email protected]

  19. Genevieve says:

    My living room is 22 x 16 feet. Ideally a 38 inch would work. However, I’m considering a wagon wheel that is very light and airy. The diameter of the wheel base is 38, but the very thin, elegant arms extend out about 5 inches on both sides which makes the fixture 48″ diameter. The overall look is very airy, not a heavy Spanish style, more French. Do you think the fixture would be too large?

    1. I think you’re right, the fact that it’s light and airy makes it possible to go bigger because it takes up less visual space. It sounds lovely. How high are your ceilings? If your ceilings are higher than 8 feet, you can definitely go larger. Cam you send a link to the fixture?

  20. Hello,

    I am replacing (2) 48″ ceiling fans with 2 light fixtures in a large living room (21 ft long x 17 ft wide and 12 ft ceilings). How big (wide) should my light fixtures ideally be? Thank you!

    1. Christie,

      I’m assuming the fans were separated and in the middle of the space. Will the lights hang over different, divided areas like two seating areas? I’m going to assume the answer is yes. If it was one fixture in a room this size you would want something 38 inches. Since you are looking for two I would look for something smaller, but not half as big. Your ceilings are so high that you should look for larger 26-30 inches each.

      I hope this helps. Would love to see a picture.

      Andrea

  21. Maura Frauhiger says:

    Is it acceptable to hang a chandelier over a kitchen island?

  22. I want to put a chandelier over my desk in my office … my desk is 24 inches wide and 59 inches long. My office is a small room. The chandelier I fell in love with is round and is 26.5 inches wide would this be okay

    1. Janice,

      Thanks for your question. You inspired me to write something more thorough about chandeliers over a desk. I think anything that you LOVE can work. That’s what makes your home uniquely your own. I would recommend hanging your chandelier higher than you would over a table and in the center of your desk. There are a few examples in the post with large chandeliers over a desk. I hope this helps.

      Andrea

  23. Hi Andrea-
    Thanks for all this wonderful info. I have an oval dining room table, 4′ x 6′, in an open concept yet clearly defined dining/living space, with cathedral ceilings, whose height measures about 12″ above the dining table. The dining area measures 13′ x 15′. I found a beautiful 20″ capiz shell round pendant which I love but think it’s too small, and am having a hard time finding something larger, or something else I really like! Please confirm that it’s likely too small? And perhaps suggest a proper size? I would prefer a globe shape- hard to imagine another shape in here- but suppose larger is probably better? In need of serious advice. Going on 4 years that I’m looking at a hole in the ceiling- took out a fan to replace with a light fixture! Thank you!

    1. Tracy,

      Thanks for your question. Your comment about 4 years makes me laugh. I do the same. We wait for the perfect thing, and meanwhile live with something we hate for too long. 20″ could be on the small side because it’s an open area with vaulted ceilings. If you’re putting the chandelier over the middle of the table the room size is less important. I love globe shape. I would just find one a big bigger, 30-36 inches. Have you seen these? I don’t know your budget, but lighting makes such a big difference. Shades of Light Capiz Chandelier. or this one from CB2 is a little bigger. There are lots of options if you search for Capiz Chandelier. I hope this helps.

  24. Michelle L Linden says:

    Hi Andrea,
    I am trying to determine chandelier size for our 18 x 20 great room. My inspiration home (https://www.architecturaldesigns.com/house-plans/new-american-house-plan-with-amazing-views-to-the-rear-95058rw) appears to have used the 63″ version of the Restoration Hardware Camino 2 tier chandelier (https://rh.com/catalog/product/product.jsp?productId=prod2111636) (based on counting the number of bulbs. By your calculator, that would be too large. Could the high vaulted ceilings be the reason for this? There is also a 50″ version of this light. Would that be better?

    1. Michelle,

      Thanks for the links that is super helpful. That is an amazing inspiration home. I would say you could easily use the 63″ one in this case because the ceilings are unusually high. The formula doesn’t really account for spaces with vaulted ceilings. You can get away with much larger fixtures because there is so much open space. I will try to write a post on this with images. I love your questions.

      Andrea

  25. Hi Andrea!

    I have a 78” long x 42” wide dining table. Dining room is 11’ x13’ 4”with 10’ ceiling open to kitchen and hallway with 10’ ceilings and also open to great room with 11’ ceiling. I found 2 open cage rectangle light fixtures one 42” and one 54” long. Both are 15” high x 12” deep. Which size would be recommended for my table size? I’ve never had a rectangle fixture and am at a loss! Thank you!

    1. Nancy,

      The larger 54″ one would definitely work in your room because you have high ceilings and it’s open to another room with really high ceilings. I would use that. I would only choose the 42″ one if I liked it a lot better. I hope this helps.

      Andrea

  26. My situation is similar to Nancy’s in that I have a dining room table 47″ wide and 87″ long (most of the time, unless the extra leaf is added). To accommodate that much length I will probably need to hang two rectangular chandeliers in tandem, but who can find one that is 35″ wide, if the rule-of-thumb is to be followed? That’s almost 3 feet! What does one do when we can’t find a fixture wide enough? Or is the width less important than the length?

    1. Terry,
      I would forget the width rule and just look for one that has plenty of heft to it. These rules are not exact, they are just guidelines. That’s a pretty wide table which is nice. For example, if you find one rectangular fixture that is large that you love you could do that. A trick I sometimes do is take a photo of my table and then I use the manufacturer’s photo of the light fixture and using Picmonkey, put it over the table. I can do that for you if you send me a photo of your table and a link to the fixture. It’s a fun way to get a preview. I hope this helps.

      Andrea

  27. Hi Andrea!

    I’m trying to figure out if a linear shaped chandelier would work well for my dining room. It’s a smaller space right off of the living room… open concept, but in a clearly defined space. Living room has a vaulted ceiling, but dining room dimensions are cozier, 11’x10′ with 8′ ceiling. I fell in love with these chandeliers for over my 74-inch long dining table:

    7-light: https://www.westelm.com/products/sculptural-glass-7-light-chandelier-mixed-w3361/
    5-light: https://www.crateandbarrel.com/arren-black-linear-5-light-pendant-with-clear-mixed-shades/s424352

    Do you think using either of these would be too big for the space, and would you recommend a different shape? Open to all the ideas, thank you so much!

    1. Emily,

      Thanks for the links and all of the dimensions. The key to size over a dining table is more about the size of the table than the size of the room overall. Your table is big enough for either fixture (which I really like). The only question is are with 8′ ceilings do you have enough height.

      Most tables are 30-32 inches high, and the fixture should be 30-34 inches above the table. That means the fixture should be around 65 inches from the floor. You have 96 inches, which means the fixture can have a maximum distance from the ceiling to bottom of fixture of 32 inches. Both fixtures say they have adjustable cords so you should be OK.

      A few of the shades (the glass part) are up to 11 inches, so the cord drop is going to be closer to 2 feet. Keep in mind that the rooms they show in the photos are probably 10-foot ceilings. If you are ok with the look of the shorter cord, they will work over the table, either one.

      Both are really pretty. Thanks for the fun question.

      Andrea

  28. Love reading through you’re replies to inquires about chandelier size.
    Okay my turn. I could purchase a 43” or 36” wide same chandelier, decided to go with 36” wide. I adore the chandelier and praying it works for my space not too small not too large.
    Dining table is 42”w x 86”L, room size is 14’ long by 10.5 wide. Coffer above the table is 11’ surrounding is 10’ ceiling.
    I have photos of the room and chandelier however I can’t figure out how to attach them here.

    1. Carol,

      Thanks for your comment! I think 36″ sounds good if your table is 42×86. Interesting about the size of your coffer. You can feel free to email photos to [email protected].

      Andrea

  29. Cindy Berniet says:

    Hi, our dining room table is 46” wide and the length is 120”. Would a 42”length x 12” height x 12” width chandelier be too small?

    1. Cindy,

      Thanks for your comment. I would love to see a picture of the fixture and your table. With this nice long length there is no fixture that is going to match the formula, but the longer the better. A better option might be to hang two matching fixtures. That would be my suggestion.

      I don’t know your style, but here are a few examples to give you a visual. Scroll through the photos for this long table and they show several examples.

      If you want to send me photos I would be happy to send you a few suggestions.

      Andrea

  30. I am trying to find a chandelier for my open living room. Flat ceilings that are 12 foot high. The room is 15×18. I am trying to decide what the tallest light I can get would be. Most are showing a minimum of 51 inches. Would this work for me? I want the double tier wagon wheel light but I am not sure if its too big for my ceiling height.

    1. Ashley,

      12-foot ceilings are on the higher end of the spectrum. You are safe as long as the fixture doesn’t come below 7-7.5 feet. That gives you 4.5-5 feet of vertical space to work with. Make sure you factor in how far the bar or chain adds to the drop. You have plenty of space for a tiered wagon wheel fixture.
      I hope this helps.

      Andrea

  31. Josephine says:

    Hi! I’m struggling to figure out what size pendant I would need for my island which is square 60inx60in. Would the same rule apply that it would require a 48” light? Because if the square shape I’m thinking a single light is better than two smaller ones. Thoughts?

    1. Josephine,

      Thanks for your email. Yes I agree that two small lights over square table might not be the best choice.

      If you follow the formula, 48 inches is the optimal size. The formula is just meant as a guide to get you started. You don’t have to find something that is exactly that size, it just helps you with proportion.

      If I had a nice big square table I would look for a round or square chandelier that is 40-48 inches. Is there a particular style you like? If so, you will find the best options by searching with that style word and the dimensions. For example, “rustic round chandelier 42 inches” or “modern square 48 inch chandelier”.

      I would love to see a photo.

      I hope this helps. I love light shopping if you need suggestions, let me know.

      Andrea

  32. Hi Andrea,

    Would love your advice on a chandelier for my dining room. It is about 12 x 10 but open concept in a raised ranch, so it opens up to the kitchen and living room with slanted cathedral ceilings that measure almost 10 ft from where the chandelier would be coming down. However, the ceiling becomes even higher when you go past that spot. My dining room table is around 41 inches by 89 inches (but we will not be keeping it forever). I was thinking bigger than usually suggested is better since it’s such an open area? But I am second guessing myself. I ordered a 32 inch in diameter wagon wheel chandelier because it follows the rules based on the measurements of my table, but am worried it might look a bit small.

    Thanks in advance!
    Melanie

    1. Melanie,

      A 32-inch wagon wheel is pretty substantial. That’s the challenge with a large rectangular table, the formula suggests a fixture that doesn’t really exist. It is really meant to be a guide and not a hard rule. But many people use a more rectangular fixture over a long table because there is so much space on both ends.

      That said, I have seen gorgeous round fixtures over rectangular tables, so the most important question is whether you LOVE the fixture.

      Let’s take your question about your vaulted ceiling. YES high ceilings can give you the visual space to go bigger. If there is a larger version of your fixture, you could use that and hang it a few inches higher (to avoid feeling like it’s too close on the sides).

      If you want to send me a photo of your table and a link to the fixture I can use the magic of picmonkey to show you how it will look before you hang it.

      I hope this helps.

      Andrea

  33. Beth Robinson says:

    Hi – I’m struggling with the size of a chandelier for my kitchen island. I love the light which is 37.8” in width and has 5 gloves. My Island is 101”. If I subtract 12, that’s an 89” chandelier! Is 37.8” too small? I do t think it would look good to hang two of them. I’m going for the mid century modern look. Thoughts on the size? Thank you!

    1. Beth,

      The formula is just meant as a guide to help you but not an absolute rule. Your island is so nice and large, and there is no fixture that is going to be 89 inches. It could definitely hold two fixtures, but if you LOVE this one it sounds pretty substantial. I don’t think it is too small.

      Many people put a pendant over an island and if you had only one 12″ pendant over an island this large it WOULD look too small.

      I would love to see photos of the fixture and your kitchen. If you send me a link I can show you how it would look in your space using the magic of Picmonkey.

      Andrea

  34. Teresa Eng says:

    Hi Andrea, I’m trying to figure out if 28″ chandelier too tall for for a 9 foot ceiling over a dining room table?
    I would appreciate your input!
    Thanks!

    1. Teresa,

      Thanks for your question. Let’s look at the math. A nine foot ceiling is 108 inches. Most tables are around 30-32 inches high. The chandelier should be 30 inches above the table. So, the bottom of the chandelier would be at around 62 inches. If the chandelier is 28 inches tall, that gets you to 90 inches (62 + 28). If the chandelier has a chain or rod that is around 18 inches, you should be fine.

      I hope this helps. I would love to see a picture.

      Andrea

  35. Indecisive Procrastinator says:

    I am considering a linear chandelier over my dining room table, which is 62 by 4o with no leaves. I do have leaves, but generally leave it as 62 long. It is open to living room, but the dining area is 10 by 14… The 13 includes a walkway so realistically it’s more like 10 by 11 or so. Standard 8 foot ceiling.
    I originally wanted a drum fixture, but I’ve evolved (lol) to strongly considering a linear…. here is one. it is 40 inches long. I’ve seen a similar one, which is 35 inches long, and of course larger but I know that is too big for me. What do you think of this with the table and room? I know it’s large but since it’s kind of airy I wonder…….
    https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/Lighting-Ceiling-Fans/Trade-Winds-Madison-4-Light-13-Chandelier/35382464/product.html?opre=1&option=67871777

    1. Sheila,

      First, I LOVE your indecisive procastinator name. But to your question, I think linear would fit your table well, much better than a drum.

      I would go with the larger one. It’s slim enough that no one will feel like they are going to bump into it.

      I realized that I don’t have a picture of my own dining table in this post but I have that EXACT light over my table. It is perfect if you don’t have a huge room, but a long rectangular table.

      Thanks for you question.

      Andrea

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