6 Tips to create a shining stairwell

When thoughtfully chosen and properly installed, a large-scale stairwell chandelier can be a transformative design element.  Much like a grand piece of art, it becomes a statement—a centerpiece that draws the eye and defines the character of the surrounding pace. And, just like major artwork, the design and installation process of a decorative stairwell fixture requires thought and precision. To ensure your chandelier is as functional as it is striking, consider these tips:

1. Choose your fixture style and hanging location carefully.
   Consider both the staircase style and the height/pitch of the ceiling, and remember that the best location for a fixture is not always in the center or midpoint of the stairway. For example, while a round chandelier can work perfectly in the middle of a U-shaped or curved staircase, it rarely works well in the center of a switchback staircase. It’s a good idea to request a 3D rendering to see how your fixture selection works in your stairwell, and avoid making an expensive mistake.
2. To ensure proper installation, select your fixture early in the construction process.
   Both fixture weight and electrical requirements will impact how a stairwell fixture should be hung. Heavier fixtures require blocking added to the building structure during the framing process, and junction boxes should be installed during rough electrical.  If you don’t pick your fixture before framing, it’s a good idea to install blocking anyway so you don’t have to re-open the ceiling later on.
3. Consider incorporating a light lift.
   This is an electric device that lowers the fixture for maintenance and cleaning, and is recommended for challenging stairwell spaces that make fixture access difficult.
4. Install your fixture prior to flooring and railings.
   This route is easier, cheaper and less risky than paying installers to work carefully around finish materials and furnishings.
5. LED makes the best choice for stairwell lighting.
   Typically, the electrical lamping in stairwell fixtures is not easily accessible. Choosing LED bulbs or integrated LED will ensure that your staircase provides illumination for years, with minimal maintenance hassle and cost.  If you are using bulbs, remember to have them on hand during install day for the same reason!
6. Make sure decision-makers are on-site during installation.
   For some fixtures, such as multi-pendant chandeliers, the ideal overall height for each pendant can be entirely subjective. The designer and/or homeowner should be on-site during installation to provide input on the finished configuration.

At Hammerton, we’re experts at customizing canopies, mounting hardware, fixture size, and suspension length to suit even the most challenging stairwell installations, and we offer a breadth of material and finish options to create a lighting solution that’s unique to your stairwell space.

Browse our gallery below to see how we can turn your stairwell into a masterpiece:

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