Guide to the different types of chandeliers

Want to turn your space into a work of art? Chandeliers are the ultimate showstopper, capable of transforming any room with their charm, sophistication and character.

Chandelier lighting is unique, but choosing the right chandelier is an art form. With so many styles, materials and designs to choose from, it’s a tough task for homeowners, interior designers and lighting enthusiasts alike. Fear not—this post explores the types of chandeliers, detailing their history, key features and where they shine best in your home.

Grab a cuppa and sit back and let us guide you through the world of chandelier types.

Antler chandeliers

Rustic charm with a wild twist

Originally used in hunting lodges, these rustic chandeliers bring the great outdoors in. While many are made with fake antlers, their designs stay true to their rugged, earthy roots.

Features

Designs offer authenticity, from fake antlers to natural finishes that give a rustic look. Materials used are diverse, often wood, resin or metal to match the overall look.

Best for

Antler chandeliers are perfect for living rooms with a log cabin or “country retreat” vibe, game rooms where they work beautifully with billiard tables, and bedrooms with northern or wild-west decor.

Tiered chandeliers

Luxury layered

Create drama and elevate your space with tiered chandeliers, with multiple layers of light sources that provide both visual impact and plenty of light. Perfect for high ceilings, grand entryways or elegant dining rooms, these statement pieces combine function with timeless design to turn any room into a masterpiece.

Popular styles

Crystal cascades and layered candle structures make for a stunning display. The crystals catch the light beautifully, while the intricate candles add warmth and elegance to any space. Together they’re a beautiful combination that elevates the mood of any room.

Where they work best

Install in grand dining rooms to create luxury and drama. These chandeliers are also perfect for creating focal points in ballrooms or formal living rooms, adding sophistication to the space.

Candle chandeliers

When you think of chandeliers, candle style chandeliers are probably the first type that comes to mind. These classic fixtures have been around since the medieval period where they were the only light source in castles and grand halls. Traditionally these chandeliers held actual candles, but modern designs now use electric ‘candle light bulbs’ to achieve the same look safely and conveniently.

Features

Chandeliers with multiple candleholders often have several arms, each holding a candle-shaped bulb. The rustic charm is enhanced by materials like brass, wrought iron or aged finishes which add an old-world elegance. With their simple and versatile design they can fit into both vintage and contemporary spaces.

Best for

Candle chandeliers are great for creating an intimate and atmospheric setting, making them perfect for spaces like dining rooms, classic entryways and rustic-styled rooms.

Glass chandeliers

Mouldable and creative

Glass chandeliers are very versatile in design and can fit into any style of interior. They can be modern and sleek or minimalist and charming and always elegant and sophisticated. Whether in a modern living room or a classic dining space they add timeless beauty to any room.

Features

Glass chandeliers offer a wide range of designs from frosted glass to hand-blown creations providing endless options to suit any style. Whether you want modern and minimalist or a statement piece with lots of detail there’s a design to match your aesthetic.

Renowned for their craftsmanship, glass chandeliers are considered works of art. They can be as simple or as complex as you like, combining function with beauty to elevate any space.

Where they work

Glass chandeliers are versatile and can enhance the style of many areas in your home. They work beautifully in modern kitchens adding elegance to sleek contemporary spaces.

They fit seamlessly into minimalist living rooms where their clean lines and sparkle become a focal point. Also perfect for open plan spaces, they tie together different areas with their timeless charm.

Crystal chandeliers

The jewel in the crown

Crystal chandeliers are the ultimate luxury. Dating back to the Baroque period they have long been a symbol of wealth and grandeur with their premium finish and intricate designs. Today they’re no longer limited to castles or five-star hotels— they can shine in your home or business too.

Crystals and designs

Crystal chandeliers often showcase ornate designs. Raindrop designs feature cascading crystals that mimic the flow of water adding elegance and fluidity to any space. Staircase chandeliers are long, spiraling fixtures designed to fit stairwells in multi-level homes. For small spaces, mini chandeliers are the answer, delivering style and charm without overwhelming the area.

Famous installations

Think of chandeliers at Versailles or the stunning installations at grand opera houses— they’re the ultimate crystal chandelier experience.

Best for

Pair them with grand dining rooms with high ceilings that create an open, elegant space. They also work well with spiral staircases adding a touch of sophistication and architectural charm. For a luxurious feel these are the perfect addition to opulent living rooms, adding style and comfort.

Drum chandeliers

Simple but dramatic

Named for their drum-like shape this chandelier style balances simplicity with impact, making it a versatile option for many spaces. The clean, cylindrical silhouette fits both modern and traditional decors adding elegance without overpowering the room.

Their diffused light creates a softer, more ambient glow perfect for setting an intimate and cozy atmosphere in dining rooms, bedrooms or living areas. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or unwinding after a long day these chandeliers bring both function and style to your space.

Features

Shades are available in various materials including linen, fabric or metal to match any style. Many designs feature multiple lights elegantly encased within a "drum" structure for a modern and sophisticated look.

Best for

Drum chandeliers are great for creating a romantic or serene atmosphere in bedrooms, adding elegance and calm. They also work well in dining spaces where setting the mood is key to a great experience. Also, drum chandeliers bring a warm, cozy feel to living areas making them feel more inviting and comfortable.

Modern chandeliers

New and sleek

If you like clean lines, bold geometry or sleek minimalism a modern chandelier might be your match. These contemporary lighting fixtures combine cutting edge technology with innovative design to create statement pieces for any space.

Whether you want to make a statement in your dining room, add elegance to your entryway or upgrade your living room decor modern chandeliers offer versatility and style that takes your home to the next level.

Materials

Modern chandeliers are breaking away from traditional designs by using unusual elements. Many feature sleek metal frames for a contemporary look while others use geometric LEDs for unique and striking shapes. Some designs also use minimal materials like acrylic for a clean and modern touch. These innovative elements redefine what a chandelier can be, blending function with art.

Compatibility with decor

They fit into many spaces. Whether it’s a living room with a tech edge or an entryway designed to impress, these pieces elevate any area with their design. They’re also perfect for spaces that live minimalist or futuristic, they blend style and function seamlessly.

Transitional chandelier lighting

Best of both worlds

Combining the traditional with the contemporary, transitional chandeliers offer the perfect balance of classic elegance and modern simplicity. Their timeless design means they work with any interior style, for dining rooms, entryways and more without ever compromising on style or function.

Features

Clean lines meet traditional finishes for a timeless and elegant look. Muted colours combined with understated designs add sophistication and subtle charm.

Best for

They excel in designing entryways that blend modern and rustic furniture to create a warm and inviting first impression. They’re also great for open-plan kitchens where they masterfully combine old and new elements to create spaces that are functional and visually stunning.

Bowl chandeliers

Simplicity at its best

Bowl chandeliers are as straightforward as they sound—light fixtures shaped like an inverted bowl that provide soft, ambient light to any room. These versatile fixtures are a popular choice for spaces like dining rooms, living rooms or entryways as they combine elegance with function. They often feature materials like glass, metal or crystal making them suitable for any interior style from modern to classic.

Variations

From glass bowls to metalwork, there are many styles to choose from. These bowls are not only functional but also create beautiful light patterns that bounce off the ceiling and walls, adding ambiance to the room.

Interior design suggestions

Bedrooms need diffused, low light to create a calm and relaxing atmosphere perfect for unwinding at the end of the day. Cosy kitchens can be enhanced with warm and inviting light to make the space feel welcoming and comfortable.

Beaded chandeliers

Bohemian chic

For something unique and exotic beaded chandeliers are the showstopper with their creative, laid back design that adds character to any space. Made from intricate strands of beads in various colours and textures these chandeliers bring bohemian style while providing warm light. Perfect for living rooms, dining areas or even bedrooms they blend function with art.

Materials

Wood, shells and metal beads each offer a different look for any space. They add texture and interest.

They’re perfect for homes that want to be handcrafted. Whether used in decor, furniture or handmade items they bring a sense of craftsmanship to spaces.

Best for

Beaded chandeliers add charm to many spaces. They’re great for eclectic bedrooms to add whimsy and personality to the decor. In living or dining rooms these chandeliers elevate the space with their artistic flair.

Beyond the home beaded chandeliers work in commercial spaces too. They can add a unique feature to boutique hotels, trendy cafes or upscale retail stores to make the space feel stylish and memorable. They’re versatile for any space.

Caged chandeliers

Industrial

Caged chandeliers are a modern favourite, adding an industrial vibe to any space. Exposed metal frames, geometric shapes and elegant lighting make them a versatile option, modern and vintage.

Perfect for dining rooms, living spaces or entryways these chandeliers make a bold statement and provide functional lighting.

Features

Metal cages surround the light source for an industrial look. These designs are sophisticated and raw, eye catching and make a statement.

Room ideas

Works well in industrial style kitchens to add modern edge and function to your space. Also great in entryways with high ceilings to make a striking first impression.

How to choose

Choosing the right chandelier isn’t just about looks; it’s about finding a style that fits your space, you and your lighting needs. A well chosen chandelier can be the hero of a room and add elegance, warmth and character.

Consider the size of the space, the height of your ceiling and the ambiance you want to create. Whether you want a modern showstopper or a classic design the right chandelier can take your home to the next level.

Browse our range

At Light Trend we have an extensive range of premium chandeliers to suit every style and taste. Looking for rustic charm, timeless crystals or modern minimalism we’ve got you covered.

Each piece is made with attention to detail and quality so it becomes a showstopper in any room. Browse our collection now and see how the perfect chandelier can take your home or commercial space to the next level.