Used for centuries, candelabras were once bringers of light to homes and cathedrals. but with the advent of electricity, the candelabra was shamefully put aside. Nowadays, the soothing calm that a lit candle provides is more appreciated by today’s stressed generation, and a beautiful candelabra adorned by candles is all the more pleasing to the eye. Candelabras have since been an accent to modern décor, although most people view candelabras as more of an accessory for classic décor, however, the time warp that candelabras are putting people in doesn’t go too far in the past anymore. The use of Candelabras in modern décor has been a bit amusing as well as challenging especially with the classical designs that tend to be common among them, but with the advent of modern décor, it shouldn’t be too hard to find a candelabra that would suit your needs.
1. Types
When choosing candelabras, it is best to first decide on what type you’d want, as the type is really the initial factor that determines the use. There are basically two types of candelabra for the floor and for the table top, floor candelabras tend to be large and high while table candelabras are easy enough to hold in the hand. Floor candelabra can be for indoor or outdoor use while a table candelabrum is more for indoor accent or accessory use.
Floor candelabras have a tendency to evoke a church like feeling because of their height, however, there have been modern twists to the usual floor candelabra, and you can see this in the vast array of spiral candelabras. These are more contemporary and may be used in modern décor. Another common type of candelabra are hanging ones, those that are used in old cathedrals and churches, however, these can also be used as a classical touch to a dining table.
Fireplace candelabra may also be of use if you don’t want the hassle of lighting a fire in your fireplace, the fireplace candelabra will take care of both the look of a warm fire and the elegance of a stylish accessory. What’s more, you don’t have to use it only in the winter time, you can also use it during spring and summer as it doesn’t produce too much heat as a full fireplace.
2. Materials
Wrought Iron
- the most popular
- the most durable
- flexible enough to fit into any type of décor
- very easy to clean
- lasts a long time and might even look better with rust!
Pewter, Brass, Silver
- brass does give off a nice color
- not exactly a durable material
- popular symbol of sophistication
- requires a lot of maintenance
- metal tarnishes in time
Porcelain, Marble
- brittle
- are easier to clean than metal
- does not tarnish
- might chip
- more of a classical feel
Glass, crystal
- more elegant
- contemporary
- available in vibrant colors
- perfect for weddings and other celebratory occasions
Kinds of Candles
When you’re buying candelabra you should also consider the types of candles that you are ready to use, tea lights, thin long candles, short fat candles, scented, etc. Candelabras are measured for certain kinds of candles and should be used with the right sized one. Usually, modern décor accepts wider shorter candles, whilst traditional embraces the long thin ones.
3. Décor
Finally, the candelabra you bought should match your décor. You don’t have to necessarily buy a floral candelabra if you have floral décor, just make sure that it doesn’t come out of place in the room.