The chandelier determines whether a room functions in the evening. This page explains how it is constructed, which material produces which light, and how to calculate the installation height before purchase.
How a Chandelier is Constructed
Three parts: the supporting frame, the crystal or decorative elements, and the sockets. For the frame, a distinction is made between cast and bent. Cast arms are heavier, have sharper contours, and can support more decorative elements. For the decorative elements, it matters whether the parts are individually set or strung on wire: individually set parts can be replaced, while strung ones will eventually break as a chain. The sockets determine which light bulbs fit and whether dimming is possible.
Crystal, Alabaster, Metal
Crystal scatters light into points, making the room lively and the walls speckled. Alabaster absorbs light and returns it as a surface, warm and without glare, but without sparkle. Bare metal casts harsh reflections, brushed metal a soft band. For a dining table, alabaster or frosted glass is usually the calmer choice, as you sit opposite each other and would otherwise look directly into the light.
Installation Height and Suspension
Before purchasing, only one figure matters: the installation height of the luminaire plus the chain plus the canopy height. Above a dining table, there are usually 70 to 85 centimeters between the tabletop and the lower edge of the luminaire. In a stairwell, you calculate from the top step, not from the floor. If you have limited ceiling height, consider flat-mounted ceiling lights instead of a chandelier.
Dimming and Light Color
A chandelier with many small light points requires a lower light color than a single luminaire, otherwise it will appear cold. 2,400 to 2,700 Kelvin is the range where crystal and brass look good. Dimming is only possible if the socket and the light bulb allow it: not every LED light bulb is dimmable, and some hum with the wrong dimmer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How high should a chandelier hang above a dining table?
70 to 85 centimeters between the tabletop and the lower edge. In very high rooms, slightly higher, but never so high that it disappears from view.
Crystal or Alabaster?
Crystal sparkles and scatters points, alabaster provides a calm, warm surface. Above a dining table, alabaster is usually more pleasant; in an entryway, crystal is more effective.
Can every chandelier be dimmed?
No. This depends on the socket and the light bulb. Dimmable LED light bulbs are marked as such, and the dimmer must be compatible.
Consultation with an Authorized Dealer
Casa Luxury is the interior world of an established, authorized Eichholtz specialist dealer. We are listed in the brand's official dealer directory and offer personal consultation, both online and in our showroom in Essen. For suitable selection, special requests, and projects, please contact us at info@casa-luxury.de.
Further in the guide: Mobili Di Lusso · Tavoli Da Pranzo Di Design · Eichholtz Chandeliers
Designer Chandeliers: Construction, Material, Light Effect: models from the current range
A selection of available models. Each image opens the product page with dimensions, material and delivery time.
