A modern dining room chandelier can transform a space into a luxury setting. The lighting style offers grandeur and elegance associated with wealthy living. Chandeliers come in many styles and designs, so finding one that’s perfect for your home can be challenging.

Nothing can make a home feel more defined or sophisticated than a well-placed chandelier.

Chandeliers are a dining room feature. They’re designed to provide ambiance while serving as a focal point. To help you find the right dining room chandelier, we’ve made a quick list of the best ones on the market today.

Best Modern Dining Room Chandeliers

To give you a head start, we’ve compiled a list of our personal favorites for you.

Boyette 3 Sphere Chandelier

The Boyette evokes a minimalistic dining room lighting vibe without sacrificing style or function. This single-tier lighting piece features three metal, brass-finished arms, each one holding a clear glass globe shade at the end. Each globe is made of hand-blown glass and is designed to hold a 60W candelabra bulb.

You’ll appreciate the adjustable rod that allows you to hang the chandelier as low as 13.5 inches above the table or as high as 70.38 inches, as well as its suitability for sloped ceilings and the dimmability of its ambient lighting.

Pros

StylishEasy installation

Cons

Very fragileBulbs not included

Albany 12-Light Sputnik Sphere Chandelier

The Albany 12-Light Sputnik Sphere Chandelier is an elaborate, clean-looking design. It features several arms going in different directions, with some arms capable of holding 60W bulbs. The arms are in no way chaotic, and are rather symmetrical to provide an appealing silhouette.

A metal frame and brass finish rounds out the appearance, complementing the kitchen décor. The model is height-adjustable (27.5” to 75.5”), dimmable, ideal for sloped ceilings, and available in three colors and four size options.

Pros

StylishEasy installation

Cons

Fragile assemblyBulbs not included

David Rembert 12 – Light Sputnik Sphere Chandelier

The David Rembert offers a clean appearance, characterized by a graceful steel frame with a chrome finish, frosted glass globe bulb shades, and a spherical body.

Features include height-adjustable capabilities, dimmable, can be used with a sloped ceiling, and is ETL-listed.

Pros

StylishEasy installation

Cons

Fragile assemblyBulbs not included

Boyd 4 Geometric Chandelier

The Boyd is a prime example of modern chandelier designs, featuring a metal geometric cage that houses a row of four 60W candelabra bulbs. This piece is available in two finish options and the lights are dimmable when hooked up to a dimmer switch.

Like the other chandeliers on our list, this one is good for use on sloped ceilings and is height-adjustable. For a chandelier with a clean geometric frame and an eye-catching design, look no further.

Pros

StylishEasy installation

Cons

Fragile assemblyBulbs not included

Connors 7 Light Geometric Chandelier

Clean, sleek, smooth, refined. These are all words that perfectly describe the Connors Chandelier. This model marries an elaborately designed metal geometric cage with a no-frills approach to lighting: LED bulbs (which are included, by the way!). These LED bulbs produce around 1260 Lumens for superior yet efficient lighting, and you’re sure to appreciate their ambient light day after day.

This chandelier is height-adjustable (24.5” to 69”), good for use with sloped ceilings, and available in 4 color options (French gold, chrome, copper, and gun metal). This one is a bit on the pricey side, but you get what you pay for: a stunning focal piece for your modern dining room.

Pros

StylishEasy installation

Cons

Fragile assemblyBulbs not included

Azuela 24-Light Sputnik Chandelier

The Azuela Chandelier does something a little different from the other models on our list thus far: it goes vertical! This chandelier is composed of twelve vertical arms attached to a circular body, with each arm holding a 40W candelabra bulb (not included) on both ends. The arms and body are crafted of steel with a brass finish and do not include shades.

The lights can be dimmed if hooked up to a dimmer switch, you can adjust the height of this chandelier from 21” to 68” to suit your needs, and it works well with sloped ceilings.

Pros

StylishEasy installation

Cons

Fragile assemblyBulbs not included

Cortes 8 – Light Sputnik Chandelier

The Cortes Chandelier may just be simplicity at its finest. Its steel arms are multi-directional yet still form a cohesive—and decisively simple—shape that adds just a touch of elegance to any dining room. Each of its four arms holds a 60W bulb (not included) on each end, which provides a unique ambient lighting experience.

This model is height-adjustable (22.5” to 46.5”), dimmable, UL-listed, can be used with sloped ceilings, and suitable for use in damp environments. To top it off, you can buy this stunning chandelier in one of five finish options: satin brass, brushed nickel, polished brass, white, and Scandinavian.

Pros

StylishEasy installation

Cons

Fragile assemblyBulbs not included

Coralie 4 – Light Geometric Chandelier

This one features a tripod design, in which each leg has brushed bronze accents. The light is adorned with a transparent glass shade and a 4W LED 420-Lumen candelabra bulb.

Its double-tiered designed provides ambient lighting from multiple directions, while its iron frame boasts an attractive gold finish that will surely catch some “oohs” and “aahs” from guests. This unit is height-adjustable (27” to 57”), ETL- and UL-listed, and boasts an easy 30-minute installation process.

Pros

Light bulb includedQuick installation

Cons

Fragile assembly

Bayboro 5-Light Sputnik Chandelier

The Bayboro 5-Light Sputnik Chandelier takes no-frills multi-directional lighting to a whole new realm. From its downrod sprout five metal arms, each one pointing in a different direction and holding a clear glass globe shade at the end to house a 60W bulb (not included).

This chandelier is height-adjustable (35” to 55”), dimmable, UL-listed, and can be used in damp locations. Order yours today in one of 3 finish options (black, gold, brass) and one of 4 shade color options (ovate, clear, cognac, smokey).

Janson 3 – Light Sputnik Chandelier

This design from the Janson 3-Light Sputnik Modern Linear Chandelier features multi-direction hinged joints and arms. The model a mechanical look, while the iron construction and brass finish of the frame put one in mind of a futuristic industrial world.

Each of its three arms is adjustable and holds a clear glass bulb at the end, designed to house 60W bulbs (not included). The unit comes with two rods, and it’s height-adjustable (30” to 50”), dimmable, and UL-listed.

Pros

StylishEasy installation

Cons

Fragile assemblyLight bulbs not included

Modern Chandelier Components

Here’s a brief overview of common chandelier materials:

GlassCrystalMetal (Iron, Steel, Bronze)WoodAntlers

When it comes to the material of your chandelier, the best type depends on your personal preferences and the look you want to achieve.

Power

You’ll find chandeliers that are low-voltage and others that are high-voltage. Here’s a quick breakdown of the differences between the two:

Low Voltage

A low-voltage chandelier runs on 10V, 12V, or 24V. This lower voltage is typically found in modern chandelier designs and does require the use of special low-voltage equipment. While this type is a bit fussier and costs more up-front, it’s also safer and more energy-efficient (which means it will save you money in the long run).

High Voltage

A high-voltage chandelier runs on 120V. This type is less hassle to set up and use than the low-voltage variety, and it’s much more affordable up-front. That said, it’s not very energy-efficient and you can only use certain types of bulbs with it.

The energy-efficiency of your chandelier will depend partly on the type you opt for and partly on how much you’re willing to spend on electricity each month.

Bulb Type

When it comes to the bulb type, there are a few options for you to consider. The most popular types are:

Incandescent bulbsCFL bulbsLED bulbsFluorescent bulbs

I’ll briefly discuss each type of bulb later in the article.

A related factor to consider is the number of lumens the bulb produces; the more lumens a bulb produces, the brighter it will be. Keep in mind that more lumens aren’t always the best way to go. Lighting for a cordial dinner, for instance, will be less bright than formal dining rooms.

Size

A lot of people underestimate the importance of size when choosing a chandelier, and this has often has less-than-stellar consequences. Purchasing a chandelier that’s disproportionately large compared to its surrounding furniture pieces will look tacky, and in an area like the dining room, this would increase the chances of someone bumping into the chandelier while getting up from their chair. If the chandelier is too small, it may fail to draw attention to itself or simply look out of place.

You can find chandeliers that are large, medium, small, or even “miniature,” so you’re bound to find one that will complement your space well. But how do you know which size to go for?

There’s a simple rule that many experts agree on:

Room’s Length (in feet) + Room’s Width (in feet) = Chandelier Width (in inches)

If a room is 12 feet by 18 feet, you would add those numbers together to get 30. So, the chandelier you purchase should be about 30 inches wide for the best look.

Of course, because you’re looking for a dining room chandelier, you should consider the size of your dining table and the height of your ceiling. More on this later!

Extras

There are few more things you should look for before purchasing a chandelier:

Height adjustabilityWhether it has shadesWhether it comes with bulbs or if you’ll need to buy those separately

Chandelier Bulbs

As mentioned in the previous section, there are four main bulb types: incandescent, CFL, LED, and fluorescent. Here’s a little information on each type to help you make the best decision for you and your home.

Incandescent Bulbs

Incandescent bulbs are known for the soft, charming glow they produce and are a popular option (especially in traditional/transitional models). However, they tend to be more expensive to use than other bulb types.

CFL Bulbs

CFL bulbs are the next step up the “energy-efficient” ladder, and they tend to last longer than incandescent bulbs do.

LED Bulbs

LED bulbs are popular in modern chandeliers due to their high level of energy efficiency and their longevity. That said, this type is more expensive up-front than the previous two and it also produces a slightly “off” shade of light.

Fluorescent Bulbs

Fluorescent bulbs are quite similar to LED bulbs as far as energy efficiency and longevity go. However, they’re more expensive to purchase up-front and do not produce the same soft, ambient lighting that other bulb types do.

Chandelier Lighting Fixtures Design Tips

Do you want a chandelier but you’re too afraid to buy one because you’re not sure it will fit with your space? You don’t need to be a professional interior designer to install a chandelier.

Chandelier Style

When looking at your chandelier options, focus on pieces that match your personal tastes. Consider the color, texture, and material.

For example, if your dining room table is solid wood, try a chandelier with brushed bronze accents. If your dining room has a light, airy feel, you may want a chandelier that makes use of glass, crystal, or a light-colored metal.

Dining Area Accents

In addition to finding a chandelier that meshes with your current dining room composition, you can make the chandelier feel more natural by buying additional décor items. If you must have that Sputnik chandelier but find later that it doesn’t match anything in your dining room, small decorations could change that.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)FAQ

Where is the best place to get a chandelier?

When looking for a chandelier, there are two main routes you can go: brick-and-mortar or online shopping (or a combination of both!).

As for brick-and-mortar stores, there are quite a few where you can expect to find a quality chandelier at a good price point. These include (but are not limited to) Bed Bath & Beyond, Lowe’s, Home Depot, IKEA, and World Market.

If you prefer online shopping, there are endless options. In addition to checking out the websites of the stores mentioned above, you can visit other popular furniture, home, and lightings sites such as:

Amazon

Wayfair

Shades of Light

Lumens

Lamps Plus

Lightology

Schoolhouse Electric

How big should a chandelier be in a dining room?

For the average dining table, you’ll want to purchase a medium-sized chandelier (or two medium-sized chandeliers for a particularly long table). This normally translates to a chandelier diameter of 28 inches, but keep in mind that its diameter should be about a foot narrower than the table’s width. Also remember that the chandelier, no matter its size, should be hung 30 to 36 inches above the table.

What is the best lighting for a dining room?

Many people long for the sophisticated warmth and elegance a chandelier can bring their dining room, but a chandelier is not for everyone or every home. Luckily, there are other lighting options available that can add just as much flair or opulence to your dining room.

Pendant lights are a well-loved alternative, also hung from the ceiling and available in similar styles. The main difference is that while chandeliers tend to be large, elaborate pieces, pendants are on the smaller side, composed of a single unit that’s often used in conjunction with additional pendant lights.

If you have a low ceiling or want a more minimalistic lighting element, you might want to check out flush and semi-flush mount lights. These are probably what you think of when you hear “lighting,” because they’re quite popular in modern homes. They are installed either completely flush or partially flush, so they don’t take up as much vertical space. You can find these in a variety of designs, so take your pick!

Track lighting and dining room lamps are two more popular lighting solutions, especially if you need your kitchen a little brighter than your current lighting solution can accommodate.

Modern Dining Room Chandelier Conclusion

Dining room lighting offers elegance and class. And contemporary chandeliers provide visual comfort for formal dining rooms. As an interior design feature, a dining table set up is incomplete without a chandelier.

You’ll have an easier time finding what you want by browsing online. It’s easy to find exclusive promotions for certain brands. If you want to buy direct from the source, most manufacturers require a driver’s license or state ID and your email address submit form.

After you place your order you might have to cover shipping fees like the freight charge listed or the actual shipping charge. With most oversized and heavy items be prepared to spend more. And be careful with discounted standard shipping. Remember, chandeliers are fragile and the last thing you’d want is for your light to arrive damaged.