Christine Schwalm Design

Most everyone has that dark corner in their home that would seriously benefit from a bit of light.  Chandeliers, much like area rugs, are fantastic for creating dedicated settings in your home.  They provide intimacy over a dining table that general overhead lighting just can't.

But what to do when budget or living situation (I'm looking at you, fellow renters) prevents you from having an electrician come in and hardwire a fixture to your ceiling?  Well, you can use table lamps, torchiers and the like.  This, however, can lead to the very unfortunate situation of your home looking like a lamp store.  Those of you with those dark northern exposure rooms know what I'm talking about.  Option B-you can use a fixture that plugs in and hangs from the ceiling with a hook.

Now I know, back in the day, those fixtures were not always the most attractive.  But I've added a few examples here that could work with just about any decor.  Seriously, these are pretty darn cute and they all are under $150.  You crafty types out there may be able to create a fixture with a light kit and a shade for even less.  For those of us not so craftily inclined, I offer the simple solutions seen here. 

Be sure to anchor your ceiling hook firmly and choose the appropriate hook for the weight of your chandelier.  Now, look around, and start thinking of where you're going to hang yours.  Over a dining table, desk, bed?  Let me know and happy hunting!