Decorating with crystal

What the owner of a crystal chandelier quickly discovers is that it creates a tender, caressing quality of light unlike anything else in the world. Rooms simply look more beautiful, bathed in this prismatic luminosity, as do their inhabitants. Mere air is transformed into atmosphere, subtly shimmering, ineffably mysterious.

The crystal chandelier can be the masterstroke for a designer with the soul of a poet.

Here are a few suggestions on how to make the best use of crystal lighting.

Do the unexpected

Ours is an era of passionate self-expression. Don’t feel that a formal crystal chandelier requires a formal setting. Give your interior designer free rein to tease the eye with unexpected combinations of furnishings.

Think grand

Always ask your designer to consider the next size up. Remember the history of the crystal chandelier -- for centuries the favored lighting of fun-loving monarchs living on a grand scale.

Or think tiny

On the other hand, crystal doesn’t always have to steal the show. A tiny crystal chandelier can be surprisingly intimate.

Treat your crystal chandelier as art

You may think you’re acquiring a light, but it’s not that simple. Schonbek owners find themselves contemplating their crystal chandelier like a fine painting. The play of light, the serenity of form, reward the eye and stimulate joie de vivre.

So do position your Schonbek with the understanding that it will be looked at constantly!

Remember crystal attracts crystal

A crystal chandelier will compliment your imported crystal stemware, your cut glass collection, even your diamonds. They can play to each other with high drama.

Think in multiples

Once you begin to indulge in crystal lighting, you may feel the urge to use it throughout your home. (This happened to Louis XIV at Versailles and other fashion leaders too numerous to mention.) We make it practical in post-modern times by designing Schonbek chandeliers in a multitude of styles and sizes, including wall sconces and crystal ceiling baskets.

Consider going “custom” if your vision is unique

Some homeowners only feel comfortable with one-of-a-kind furnishings. At Schonbek, we are craftspeople who manufacture from scratch. We create a custom crystal chandelier for you with the dimensions, crystal type and frame finish of your choice. You can even ask us to invent a design just for you.

Know your chandelier

A fine crystal chandelier has a way of becoming a family heirloom. So do insist on authenticity. Every Schonbek crystal chandelier is an original design with a pedigree. The Schonbek company dates back to 1870 in Bohemia.

Schonbek chandeliers are available at fine lighting showrooms. Contact us for the source nearest you. Call 1-800-836-1892.

Request a free Schonbek DVD