Dramatic Lighting

A chandelier can add chic style to even the most modestly furnished home. Those Ikea finds will take on a new look. 'Chandeliers" can be simple or dramatic, but all add interest and a focal point for the room. They can define a space in a larger area, and just add more light to the room! Auctions are full of interesting and unusual chandeliers to fit just about any style.

 Both photos decorator Phoebe Howard

I love a lantern style chandelier in cozy sitting rooms or dens, and of course they look great in a hallway. The chinoiserie style of the one above in the entrance hall is particularly chic.

Elle Decor - Designer: Clora Kelley

This room is decorated in a modern style, but has a traditional glass or crystal chandelier. The look works and tells me not to be afraid to mix modern and traditional elements. Why be a slave to a single style look in a room. 

Homes and Gardens Magazine, UK

This lovely small chandelier dresses up this dining area without going over the top. 

When I started to look at auction sites I found so many great examples of different style chandeliers to suit any taste from Murano to 1950's. We'll start with traditional and move to modern.

Christie's Interiors Sale Aug. 31 and Sept. 31 - Lot 525

This Venetian Murano 6 light chandelier is a classic. In my opinion the styling is a more fun than cut glass or crystal. They often can be found in multiple colors which adds even more interest. This particular one is coming up in the Christie's Interiors sale in New York at the end of the month. It has an estimate of $1,500 - $2,000. 

Christie's Interiors sale - Lot 642

This gilt and patinated bronze light is a wonderful neo-classical style. It has a certain masculinity to it. This has an estimate of $500 - $700. 

Christie's Interiors - Lot 647

I love hanging lanterns, and this one is even a wonderful color. It's 'tole peinte' and glass, and has an auction estimate of $800 - $1,200. I'd put this in an adult or kids bedroom.

 New Orleans Auction

At the most recent New Orleans Auction this fun chinoiserie style lantern sold for $1,476 (auction estimate was $200 - $400). It's very chic and almost a bit whimsical. I would use this anywhere - dining, hall, bedroom, or bath room. 

Now let's see if we can find something more modern. 

New Orleans Auction

This sold at the recent New Orleans auction and was described as a French black and white drum chandelier. I think it's very cool. I want this over a dining table in the dining room or kitchen. It sold for a bargain $369!

Wright 21

This sold at the last Wright Mass Modern sale for $1,500. It's a circa 1965 Atomic chandelier, and just shouts fun. 

I had to control myself with examples. There were so many at current and past auctions. They are all so much more interesting than buying something new at retail prices. Next time you want to update a space, buy a chandelier!