Take On The Modern Chandelier Trend With An Easy DIY For Flat & Vaulted Ceilings

Good lighting is critical in any space. Lighting fixtures serve a practical purpose, but they also add ambiance and can brighten up your mood on gloomy winter days. Today, chandeliers are on trend, mixing sophisticated modern design with the sense of splendor that we associate with these ceiling-hung fixtures. Fortunately, there are chandelier styles out there that work for nearly every aesthetic.

For example, TikTok user @heatherashleemcdaniel shared their DIY project that exchanged a dated "millennial gray" lighting fixture with a simple, sleek, stylish update. Of course, before you can replace your old fixture, you have to choose a new one. In this case, you may want to skip this TikTok creator's particular suggestion — based on the fixture's reviews, it's not always a winner (more on that later).

If you want to tackle this project in your own space, check out our guide for the easiest way to change a lighting fixture first. Your new fixture will likely come with instructions for how to wire it properly, but any time you work with electricity, you have to be very careful. Still, changing out a lighting fixture is a relatively safe and easy DIY project — just make sure you turn off the power first. And as Heather shows us in their video, make sure you measure your ceiling first so you can determine exactly where you want the new fixture to hang and adjust its length accordingly.

For many reasons, the chandelier in TikToker @heatherashleemcdaniel's video may seem like a great option. Its simple, sleek design makes it a good fit for almost any aesthetic. It would feel just as at home in your cottagecore kitchen as in your transitional dining room (here's our ultimate guide to transitional decor). Even better, its design works for flat or vaulted ceilings. And at just $58.99 on Amazon, the 4-Light Kitchen Island Lighting Fixture from FIYUEOYI seems like a steal. A look at the reviews, however, may make you rethink your purchase. The biggest complaint from buyers is that the recommended E12 bulbs don't fit in the fixture's sockets.

The good news is that it's easy to avoid this hassle because the simple design means there are plenty of look-alike options. For instance, the Electro bp 47" W 4-Light Linear Kitchen Island Lighting Fixture Classic Chandelier looks very similar and has much better reviews. Worth noting, though, is that the old adage "you get what you pay for" comes into play here, as this version will run you $129.99. It offers the same flexibility for installation on a flat or vaulted ceiling. It's not the only alternative, though, so take your time perusing other options. Ultimately, you'll have to decide whether you want to pay more up front or spend your time and money on specialty bulbs to fit the cheaper version. And if this particular look isn't quite right for you, don't fret. We've got you covered.

Maybe the simple designs of the chandeliers we've mentioned are a little too blah for you, or maybe the size and color options aren't what you're looking for. Whatever the case may be, we get it if you want to tackle this particular DIY project with a different product. But where do you start when it comes to choosing the right light? Begin by taking a look around your space. What do you already love about it? If you have a super sleek table, you may want to look for a chandelier that's an even more modern statement piece. If you have any hardware or other permanent fixtures in the room, consider which finishes might complement those. There's seemingly no end to the available options, so anything you can do to narrow them down is a win.

Size is also important when choosing a light. The width and length matter for practical reasons — you don't want to hit your head every time you walk through the room, nor do you want your fixture to look puny and undersized. While you can often adjust the height at which a chandelier hangs, you probably don't want it to obstruct the view, and a bulky fixture hung too low may do just that. So, pay attention to these details before you buy. Need more help finding the right light for your room? Check out this guide to finding the perfect light.