Chandeliers With Shades

Chandeliers with Shades: A Complete Buyer's Guide

Key Points

• Chandeliers with shades combine the look of normal chandeliers with softer, diffused lighting due to the added shades
• Choose a chandelier approximately 1/2 to 2/3 the width of your table
• Fabric shades create warmer light, while glass provides more apparent illumination
• Standard hanging height: 75-90cm above dining tables, 210cm minimum in walkways
• Shade colour affects light output - darker shades reduce brightness by 40-60%
• Popular styles include drum, mini, bell, and empire shade designs

How To Shop for the Perfect Chandeliers with Shades

When shopping for chandeliers with shades, look at both the frame and the shade style. These fixtures have arms like regular chandeliers but add fabric or glass shades that soften the light. We recommend shaded chandeliers for dining rooms, bedrooms, and living areas, where softer lighting helps create a comfortable feel.

Start by determining the overall style that works for your space:

• Drum shade chandeliers feature a single large cylindrical shade surrounding multiple bulbs
• Mini-shade chandeliers have individual small shades covering each bulb
• Bell shade chandeliers use flared shades that widen at the bottom
• Empire shade chandeliers have slightly sloped sides that widen toward the bottom
• Coolie shade chandeliers feature wide, flared shades with dramatic angles

Most shaded chandeliers work well in transitional or contemporary spaces, bridging traditional and modern styles. Look for chandeliers with more ornate frames and textured fabric shades for traditional rooms. Modern spaces benefit from clean-lined frames with simple drum or cylindrical shades.

Our Top 3 Styles of Shade Chandeliers for Different Rooms

Different rooms benefit from specific styles of shaded chandeliers. We recommend these top choices based on functionality and aesthetics:

For Dining Rooms

The dining room remains the classic location for a shaded chandelier. We suggest:

• Oval or rectangular drum shades for long dining tables
• Round drum shades for square or round tables
• Choose a fixture approximately 30cm narrower than your table width
• Hang 75-90cm above the table surface for proper proportion

For Living Rooms

Living rooms benefit from the ambient light that shaded chandeliers provide:

• Large drum shades create substantial visual impact in open spaces
• Multi-tiered designs work well in rooms with higher ceilings
• Position the fixture in the centre of your conversation area, not necessarily centred in the room
• Allow at least 210cm clearance from the floor to the bottom of the fixture

For Bedrooms

Bedroom chandeliers with shades create a softer, more relaxing atmosphere:

• Smaller scale fixtures (50-75cm diameter) work well in most bedrooms
• Fabric shades provide warmer, more flattering light
• Position over the foot of the bed or in the center of the room
• Choose designs with multiple light sources for better overall light output
• Use a chain chandelier if you want the option to adjust the height

3 Important Measurements for Choosing Shaded Chandeliers

Getting the size right ensures your shaded chandelier fits your space appropriately. We recommend focusing on these three critical measurements:

Diameter or Width

The width of your chandelier should be proportional to your room or table:

• For dining tables: Select a chandelier 30cm narrower than your table width
• For rooms without tables: Measure the room in meters, then convert it to centimetres for an approximate diameter
• A 3m × 4m room (12m²) would work well with a 70-90cm diameter fixture
• Allow at least 60cm clearance from walls or furniture

Height and Hanging Length

Both the height and length of your chandelier are just as important as how wide it is:

• Total fixture height typically ranges from 40-90cm for most shaded chandeliers
• Adjustable chain or rod length allows customisation to your ceiling height
• For 240cm ceilings, the chandelier body should generally be no taller than 45-55cm
• For each additional 30cm of ceiling height, you can add 10-15cm to the fixture height

Shade Dimensions

The shade proportions affect both light distribution and visual balance:

• Individual mini shades typically range from 10-15cm in diameter
• Drum shades range from 40-90cm in diameter and 15-30cm in height
• Shade depth affects light spread - deeper shades direct more light downward
• Wider shades create more ambient light distribution throughout the room

Making Your Shaded Chandelier Match Your Room

To make your shaded chandelier look like it belongs in your room, try these approaches:

• Match your chandelier's metal finish to door and cabinet handles in the room
• Pick shade fabrics that go with your curtains or furniture fabrics
• In open floor plans, use similar-looking fixtures throughout connecting spaces
• Think about ceiling colour - lighter ceilings bounce more light into the room
• If you want something that is more of a statement piece use a Sputnik Chandelier.

For a layered lighting approach, pair your shaded chandelier with:

• Wall lights using similar shades and finishes
• Table lamps with complementary bases or shade shapes
• Recessed lighting for additional light output where needed
• Floor lamps for reading areas

Remember that shaded chandeliers typically provide more ambient than task lighting. Supplement with additional task lighting sources in work areas like kitchen islands to ensure proper light levels for detailed activities.

How To Choose the Right Shade Materials

Shade materials significantly impact both light quality and style. We suggest considering these options based on your needs:

Fabric Shades

Fabric shades create warm, diffused light and add textural interest:

• Linen provides excellent light diffusion with natural texture
• Silk creates elegant, smooth, light transmission with a luxurious appearance
• Cotton offers durability and consistent light diffusion
• Look for lined shades to avoid seeing the bulb outline through the shade
• White or cream shades maximise light output, while coloured shades reduce brightness

Glass Shades

Glass shades offer different lighting qualities and maintenance benefits:

• Frosted glass diffuses light while maintaining good brightness
• Clear glass maximises light output but shows bulbs more visibly
• Seeded or textured glass adds visual design and softens light slightly
• Coloured glass creates distinctive light effects and decorative impact
• Glass is easier to clean than fabric but typically more fragile

Specialty Materials

For distinctive looks, consider these alternative shade materials:

• Parchment or paper shades for warm, textural lighting
• Metal mesh or perforated shades for industrial or contemporary spaces
• Mica mineral shades for rustic or craftsman-style rooms
• Crystal bead or shell overlays
• Natural materials like woven rattan or bamboo for casual spaces

3 Ways To Maintain Your Shaded Chandelier

Proper maintenance keeps your shaded chandelier looking its best. We recommend these three approaches to regular care:

Regular Dusting

Dust accumulates quickly on both frames and shades:

• Dust fabric shades weekly with a clean, soft brush or vacuum with upholstery attachment
• Clean glass shades with a microfiber cloth or duster every 1-2 weeks
• Dust chandelier frames and chains monthly with a soft cloth
• Always turn off the fixture and let bulbs cool completely before cleaning. Even LEDs get warm after being on for longer period
• Use extendable dusting tools for hard-to-reach fixtures

Deep Cleaning

Periodically, more thorough cleaning helps maintain appearance:

• Remove fabric shades if possible and gently hand wash according to manufacturer instructions
• Clean glass shades with glass cleaner (never spray directly on shades)
• Wipe metal frames with appropriate cleaners for the specific finish
• Consider professional cleaning for valuable or intricate fixtures
• Take photos before disassembling for easier reassembly

Shade Replacement

Over time, shades may need replacement:

• Fabric shades typically last 5-7 years before fading or discolouring
• Keep track of shade measurements (top diameter, bottom diameter, height) for easier replacement
• Consider professional re-shading services for custom or unusual fixtures
• Purchase from the original manufacturer when possible for a perfect fit
• Save mounting hardware when replacing shades
• Using LED light bulbs compared to halogen will increase the lifespan of the shades due to reduction in heat

Frequently Asked Questions

Are chandeliers with shades out of style?

No, chandeliers with shades remain consistently popular and are considered timeless fixtures. While specific shade styles may shift with trends (currently favouring cleaner drum and empire shapes), the basic concept of a chandelier with shades has enduring appeal. They're particularly valued for their versatility in traditional, transitional, and contemporary settings. Modern designs featuring simple lines, neutral shade colours, and mixed materials are especially current.

Can you put shades on a chandelier?

Yes, you can add shades to many existing chandeliers. Chandeliers with candle-style lights or exposed bulbs can often be updated with clip-on mini shades designed to attach directly to bulbs or candle cups. For the best fit, measure the bulb or socket diameter (typically 5-8cm) and choose appropriately sized clip-on shades. Alternatively, some chandeliers can be fitted with a single large drum shade that encircles the entire fixture, creating a completely updated look.

How do you update an outdated chandelier?

There are effective ways exist to update an outdated chandelier without replacing it entirely. We recommend these approaches:

• Add new shades or replace existing ones with more contemporary styles
• Repaint the frame in a modern finish (matt black, brushed brass, or white are currently popular)
• Replace clear light bulbs with LED flame or vintage-style bulbs for updated character
• Swap crystal drops or traditional ornaments for more modern decorative pieces
• Add a drum shade surrounding the entire chandelier to completely change the look