Kitchen chandeliers are everywhere right now – 6 designer-approved tips for bringing this luxurious lighting into a practical space

Kitchens, at their core, are primarily functional, designed to hold appliances, store food, and provide the space to prepare it. However, good lighting in a kitchen cannot be underestimated, and as such, chandeliers are an increasingly popular choice for the space.

While grand or ornate chandeliers may be commonly associated with living and dining rooms, placing a chandelier in the kitchen is an interesting lighting idea, adding a decorative (and practical) element to a room that all too often features unexciting light fixtures.

'Chandeliers bring instant drama and sophistication to a space,' explains designer Nina Lichtenstein. 'In a kitchen, they serve as a focal point that bridges form and function, elevating the overall aesthetic. Kitchens are increasingly designed to feel like extensions of the home’s main living spaces, and chandeliers contribute to this seamless flow by introducing a layer of decorative lighting that feels less industrial and more personal.'

With that said, we have rounded up the best ways to make a chandelier work as your kitchen lighting, plus what designers think of this emerging trend.

1. Choose a small chandelier to elevate a small kitchen

Small kitchens require careful planning around scale; selecting a large chandelier would overwhelm a compact space. As such, Nina recommends opting for a more petite light fixture.

'In compact kitchens or above breakfast nooks, smaller chandeliers work beautifully,' she says. 'Consider mini crystal chandeliers, lantern-style fixtures, or sculptural modern designs to add just the right amount of charm without overwhelming the space.'

2. Go for a linear chandelier over an island

Meanwhile, kitchen islands benefit from horizontal/linear lighting, which capitalizes on the width of an island while providing a unique form of lighting to the area.

'For kitchens with islands, linear chandeliers are an excellent option,' Nina states. 'These elongated fixtures provide balanced lighting across the countertop while making a bold visual statement. Look for designs with mixed materials like wood and metal or sleek glass pendants integrated into the structure for added style.'

3. Add extra interest with a multi-tiered chandelier

Maintaining visual interest in a neutral kitchen can be done easily with layered lighting – a design choice that adds volume and dimension to even the most matte of spaces.

'Multi-tiered chandeliers with cascading lights work well in open-concept kitchens with higher ceilings,' Nina says. 'These fixtures add vertical interest and establish a dramatic and upscale tone.'

4. Create a rustic farmhouse feel

The farmhouse kitchen is a timeless trend built on natural materials and vintage sensibilities; thus, a rustic light fixture can take the room to the next level.

'Kitchens with a cozy, rustic vibe pair beautifully with chandeliers that feature warm wood tones, wrought iron details, or Edison-style bulbs,' Nina tells us.

5. Bring in a contemporary chandelier

You can't go wrong with a minimalist or modern chandelier in a contemporary kitchen – think smooth materials and interesting silhouettes. A chandelier does not have to be traditional and ornate to add elegance to a kitchen; even glossier spaces can benefit from the volume and glamour of this kind of light fixture.

'Sleek kitchens benefit from contemporary chandeliers with clean lines, matte finishes, and bold geometric shapes,' Nina explains.

And or the adventurous, statement piece chandeliers are also a great way to infuse some drama into the kitchen. 'Don’t be afraid to go bold! Oversized, sculptural chandeliers with unique shapes or materials can transform your kitchen into a design showcase,' Nina continues. 'Just make sure they don’t obstruct sightlines, particularly in open-concept spaces.'

With so many styles of chandeliers to choose from, incorporating these statement lighting pieces into the kitchen is a versatile design choice. Not only do they elevate any kitchen, large or small, but they provide ample illumination and visual engagement, ensuring that they will never go out of style.