Mid Century Modern Chandeliers

Great lighting offers a phenomenal way to accentuate your space. Of course, Mid Century Modern lighting reproductions and original MCM chandeliers bring a one of a kind look to your home.

Firstly, Mid-century modern chandeliers (in the truest sense) are chandeliers from the mid-century modern style period. As most people know, the mid-century modern style period includes the 1940s through the mid-1960s.

Of course, Chandeliers from this period are highly varied in style and size. The following guide will help you learn more about mid-century modern chandeliers, along with some helpful tips for purchasing them.

What are Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers?

Mid-century modern chandeliers are chandeliers created in the mid-century modern style. Today, many retailers and manufacturers use the words “Mid Century” to describe many of their lighting options. Clearly, this hints to the popularity of this lighting trend today.

During the post WWII period, many artists and designers aimed to infuse home design with optimism and fresh design. So, many new looks came about in the trend of home design. In fact, many designers aimed to break traditional all together and wanted to create a very “modern” way of living, one uncluttered with European and historical designs.

Thus, expressive shapes, unusual colors, and very pared back lines helped forge a new way of decorating interiors during the Mid Century Period. And, lightening took a prominent role in these new designs.

Mid-century modern chandeliers were created in a wide variety of styles, sizes and materials. Therefore, many people consider them to be the most eclectic and varied of all mid-century modern interior pieces.

Common Mid-century Modern Chandelier Styles

There are many different types of mid-century modern chandeliers. Materials used to create mid-century modern chandeliers range from metal to crystals and much more in between. Chandeliers from this period tend to be on the medium to smaller side, but you can find some larger pieces, particularly simplistic designs which feature geometric shapes.

The following are some of the most common mid-century modern chandelier styles.

Singular Pendants
Some mid-century modern chandeliers are actually singular pendants, which feature a larger and distinctive pendant piece. These pendant pieces can range from geometric, simple shapes to ornate lighting fixtures with dozens of crystals. Often, singular pendants took the form of a singular globe, which often gives off an aura of warm glow.

Classical Chandeliers

Classical-style chandeliers with hanging crystals were also popular during the mid-century modern style period. Of course, Classical chandeliers from this period tend to be smaller than their earlier or later counterparts, which is one way which you can distinguish between mid-century modern classical chandeliers and chandeliers from different periods.

Of course, you may find slight distinctions in MCM crystal chandeliers, too. For one, the crystals may be square and very dramatic in shape. The hard lines of the crystal often mimicked the straight legs in a dining room. for instance.

Geometric Hanging Chandeliers

Geometric shapes were very popular during this style period, and chandeliers offered no exceptions. So, Geometric hanging chandeliers feature multiple branches or tiers with distinct geometric shapes, including rectangles, diamonds, and even atomic inspired shapes. In fact, during the period, one of the most famous chandeliers was developed: The Sputnik Chandelier.

Of course, the name Sputnik refers to the space race between the Soviet Union and the United States. Indeed, the excitement and fervor for space exploration inspired many of the designs during the period.

Tips for Purchasing Mid Century Modern Chandeliers

If you are interested in purchasing mid-century modern chandeliers, you should consider the following essential tips to help you make an informed purchase.

Tip: Consider your existing fixture set-up.

If you plan to choose a chandelier that doubles as a lighting fixture, you will need to consider whether or not your existing fixture set-up is compatible with the vintage piece. If possible, consult with an electrician about what specifications regarding size, and weight are necessary for your home.

Indeed, you may also want to consult an interior designer or lighting designer to help with your decision. As lighting is one of the most important, yet often overlooked design features, you may need a more experienced eye to guide you.

Tip: Look for larger pieces to create a focal point.

If you want to create a unique focal point in your kitchen and dining room, you may want to consider searching for larger mid-century modern chandeliers rather than smaller or medium sized pieces. These more unusual larger pieces can create a truly distinct look in any kitchen or dining room space.

While there are rules of thumb regarding the size of the room and light fixture, you may choose to break the decorating rules. However, consider the height, size and purpose of the room. And , consider purchasing a MCM dining table, MCM bookcase or other MCM accent piece to add visual repetition to the room.

Tip: Have any electric chandeliers tested before you buy

If you are purchasing a chandelier with an electrical lighting component, you should have it tested before you make a purchase. This will help to ensure you don’t buy a “dud.” While it is possible to rewire a chandelier, you can save yourself a lot of hassle and trouble if it is safe and ready to hang.

Final Lighting Considerations

Remember to keep the above guide in mind when purchasing mid-century modern chandeliers. Of course, if you love anything enough, you can always make it work in a space. After all, chandeliers are like the jewelry of a room, and everyone has a distinct way of styling an outfit with their own jewelry. So, listen to your heart, and your electrician, and purchase a vintage Mid Century Modern Chandelier today.