Design Obsession: Linear Crystal Chandeliers

Do you ever see a design element or trend and become obsessed? I’ve gone through that many times with trends such as quatrefoil/trellis prints (then it was everywhere! Oy!), damask, polka dots, agate, malachite, brass, etc. Sometimes the trends really stick in my head, and I have to have them.

As Christina says on Flip or Flop about 5 times per episode, “buyers will be obsessed.” I’m a buyer, and I am obsessed.

My current design obsession is linear crystal chandeliers…specifically in a kitchen/dining room setting.

Here are some examples that make me swoon (source under photo):

What I ~~like~~ love about this type of chandelier is the heavy glam, crystal look plus the fact that it’s not visually heavy or clunky. It’s a showstopper without being a monstrosity, and the number of lights means it would definitely give off a lot of light.

What worries me about this type of light is the fact it has no “depth”. It’s maybe 2″ “thick” so it’s not substantial from that perspective. Which is what I love, yet which is also what I worry about. Also, all the reviews on this type of fixture state they have to use tape on the top of the bar to keep the strands in place since the crystals are so heavy. I doubt you’d be able to see the tape if it’s hung a bit high, but who knows.

What’s a girl to do?

I would love to have one of these over an island as long as the crystals were high quality. None of that acrylic or glass nonsense…if you’re going to have something like this in a dining room or kitchen, splurge on the good crystal! When the sunlight hits your room and you have gorgeous prisms bouncing off your walls and ceilings, you’ll thank yourself.

These types of fixtures are sold all over the place (ZGallerie has a version under $350), but I narrowed it down to my three faves based on crystal quality, size and number of lights. Prices vary from $300-$550, but I will note the one that is $550 is currently on clearance and $340 off. I will warn the cheaper the fixture the more likely it is that it will not be lead crystal. Buyers beware!