2024-02-06 12:58:28
Lighting fixtures play a pivotal role in determining the style of a home, and despite the continuous design and production of modern forms of lighting elements that keep pace with the times, a large number of homeowners love to acquire antique or vintage pieces and designs, due to their elegance and sophistication.
Shopping for vintage lighting fixtures can be like a treasure hunt, uncovering unique pieces with history and character, as investing in antique or vintage items adds distinction and good old-time charm to the home.
In addition, the home containing old and antique items, such as furniture and lighting fixtures, has become a popular home interior design trend recently.
There are some key things to keep in mind when shopping – especially online – for antique lighting fixtures, which we present to you in this report.
1- Search using the correct keywords
The secret to finding a real antique piece of lighting is to search using specific keywords
When shopping online for antique lighting fixtures, the secret to finding a good antique piece that you love is to search using specific keywords.
Among the most prominent and important keywords that help you find the distinctive piece are the word vintage and phrases such as vintage industrial sconce or Art Deco pendant lamp to obtain focused results.
It is important to add the word “vintage” to your search, because otherwise, you may see reproduced pieces, not really vintage.
Experts also advise that if you see phrases like “vintage-inspired,” or you notice large quantities of a piece, it’s probably not truly antique.
Once you are attracted to a piece of lighting, notice the way the seller describes it, which is an important sign in knowing whether the item is real or not.
2-Pay attention to the wiring and the general condition of the lighting fixtures
vintage industrial sconce
The wiring of a lighting element determines whether it is ready to be installed immediately or a piece that requires repairs.
Experts advise avoiding choosing lighting fixtures with missing parts or extensive damage, as repair can be expensive.
If the lighting fixture is completely disassembled, or has missing parts as well as old wiring, it may not be worth the cost of restoration and repair.
If you like a piece of lighting that is very old and has some damage, it is best to take it to an electrician to inspect it and determine its condition.
3-Don’t be afraid to mix eras and styles for lighting elements
Lightings in certain rooms, such as the kitchen, may require more frequent polishing to remove dirt and grease
When you’re looking for antique lighting, experts say you can’t limit yourself to just one style or piece that matches your home’s style, but rather have fun mixing different styles of fixtures for an eclectic look.
For example, you could choose a Marie Theresel-style chandelier for the dining room to create mood lighting, and install 1920s utilitarian-style lighting for the kitchen.
4-Pay attention to the size of the lighting piece
Always check the size of the lighting element and the length of the string
As with any important home purchase, don’t forget about measuring, as you should always check the size of the lighting element and the length of the string, as well as where you want to install the light.
To calculate the ideal chandelier width, add the length plus the width of the room together, this sum in feet, close to the ideal chandelier diameter in inches.
For example, if you have a room 7 x 8 feet long, the diameter of the lighting element should be about 15 inches or about 38 cm.
In terms of the length of pendants and chandeliers, the lighting element above the dining room table should hang from 30 inches (72 cm) to 36 inches (92 cm), while the fixture hanging in an open space should be at least two meters above the ground.
5-Keep in mind the effort and cost of installation
You must pay attention to the amount of cleaning each lighting fixture needs
Small pendant lighting items with updated wiring are usually quick and easy to install.
However, heavier and larger installations, such as large eight-light chandeliers, often require additional reinforcements and elements, and therefore more money and effort.
6-Pay attention to the amount of cleaning and maintenance
The effort and cost of installing antique lighting fixtures must be taken into account
Before choosing certain styles of antique/antique lighting fixtures, remember that the more decorative, the more effort required to clean.
Additionally, lighting in certain rooms, such as the kitchen, may require more frequent polishing to remove dirt and grease.
Experts advise you to clean the installed lighting elements by wiping the exterior with a microfiber cloth, and as for chandeliers, with a feather duster during daily cleaning.
To deep clean crystal chandeliers, you can remove the crystals and wash them in the sink using a mild dish detergent, or climb on a ladder and clean them by hand using a soft cloth and a special glass cleaner.
Images from: pinterest and shutterstock
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