Chandeliers are made to dazzle regardless of where they're hung. So why not make a statement right from the start? With careful selection, a grand entryway chandelier will set the scene for the rest of your thoughtfully decorated home. But be careful, it's easy to make an expensive mistake during the chandelier-selection process. How to avoid the headache? Here are some easy steps to take to make sure you select the best fixture for your foyer.

Homeowner: Happily Grey | Light: Liberty by HVL

The first thing to consider is what kind of statement you want to make. Since the foyer is more decorative than functional, a large chandelier is your opportunity to express your home personality and set the stage for everything that is to come. Clear the space and envision what you want from it. What says 'welcome home' to you?

Homeowner: Lindsay Arnold | Light: Roundout by HVL. Note how a large, dramatic fixture adds a lot to modest-sized entry.

Next, think about the different ways this chandelier will be viewed. If your entryway has a transom window, it will allow a big chandelier to act as a welcoming beacon to those approaching the front door, its warm, iniviting light spilling out. Guests will be guided to your home, and the scene will be set for the thoughtful design they are about to experience. Similarly, if the foyer is in the heart of your home, the level of drama your chandelier exudes should be one you feel very comfortable living with. After all, you will be seeing it far more often than your guests.

Design & Home: Jewel Marlowe, Jeweled Interiors | Light: Ashleigh by Mitzi, elegantly contrasted with a ceiling medallion

The wagon-wheel style chandelier will provide a classic, rustic feel, pairing beautifully with exposed stone and neutral tones. It can also serve as a starting point for some sophisticated and even glamorous fixtures in a more contemporary style.

A layered, textured chandelier will establish a very high level of design, and is sure to make a dramatic statement. 

Graffiti by Corbett delivers on the glamour with layers of textural intrigue

A streamlined silhouette provides low-stakes lighting yet unequivocal elegance. The simple, iconic shapes play well against a variety of design styles and work beautifully above landings.

Design: This Old Hudson | Light: Sawyer by Troy

Lanterns have historically enjoyed placement in entryway and adjacent hallway spaces. Expanded in size and light output, lanterns sometimes fall into the chandelier category. A contemporary lantern resonates with this notion of coming home, while offering dazzling style. 

Troy's Morgan fixture is modern update on the lantern concept

After these factors, the most important consideration is sizing. It's essential to leave at least seven feet between the floor and the base of the chandelier in order to provide the necessary head room. Also, try to preserve four feet of space between the widest parts of the fixture and your wall. Without this clearance, the chandelier can feel cramped. Finally, for a particularly grand entryway in a space with a ceiling taller than 10 feet, consider a two-tiered or even three-tiered chandelier. 

And don't forget, there's no rule stating you can only have one chandelier in your entryway. Based on the size and layout of yours, you may want to suspend three at staggered heights.

Design: KBN Interiors | Light: Glendale by HVL