JACKSONVILLE, Florida - The chandelier has become an important part of today's home design and decor.

"When most people hear the word, chandelier, they think of a dining room or foyer," said Judith Sisler Johnston, president, Sisler Johnston Interior Design and ASID Allied Member. "However, recent trends in lighting options and the way homeowners use their homes is changing that notion."

Previously limited to use in formal areas of larger homes, chandeliers have begun to turn up in the most unlikely places in home design. From powder rooms to master bedrooms and bathrooms, designers and consumers are choosing these lighting enhancements for nearly every room in the home.

The home's foyer can set the stage for a dramatic entry and chandeliers are now being designed as semi-flush options, meaning they appear like a hanging chandelier but are actually mounted in close proximity to the ceiling. If the foyer area has expansive ceiling heights, such as one that rises two stories, an elongated chandelier on a long chain will add a decorative element to the home.

A chandelier in the living room will provide illumination and ambiance. If the living room is adjacent to the dining room where a chandelier is traditionally used, then a contrasting, but complementary, shape and style of chandelier should be selected.

Powder rooms are frequently the setting for small but ornate chandeliers made of crystal as well as wrought iron. These smaller, elaborate chandeliers add a formal unexpected touch to small spaces. Speaking of bathrooms, the new larger master suites often have a relaxing garden tub area ideal for showcasing a lovely chandelier. Before hanging one over a tub, however, homeowners are advised to check the electrical codes which dictate the distance the pendant fixture must be from water.

A chandelier is frequently selected in a master bedroom in lieu of a ceiling fan to add a radiant design element as well as light. This is especially true if the master bedroom includes a sitting room area.

Chandeliers come in virtually any style to coordinate with every décor. Contemporary choices consist of glass and shiny or brushed chrome. They often hang from cords instead of chains to reinforce their modernistic appeal. Traditional choices include stained wood or turned metals in bronze, black or pewter.

Chandeliers that combine wood and metal are a popular choice. The chandeliers' styling can include Tuscan, English, French Country, Western or tropical design. Transitional fixtures fit comfortably in an eclectic home because they combine many elements and include materials found in more than one category.

Mini chandeliers, also known as pendants, have become popular choices over the breakfast bar area for lighting in many homes. If the kitchen also has a breakfast room, chandelier mini pendants should be carefully selected to coordinate and complement the area's larger lighting fixture.

AASID Allied Member Judith Sisler Johnston and her team of licensed, talented designers help clients enhance their surroundings with designs that range from traditional elegance to classic contemporary style. Sisler Johnston is Jacksonville's leading authority on designing spectacular spaces that are beautiful, functional and reflect her clients' personalities and lifestyles.

Sisler Johnston's design work has been featured in numerous books, newspapers, magazines and television programs. Sisler Johnston Interior Design celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2004 and has been recognized with more than 100 industry awards.

For more information about Sisler Johnston Interior Design, call (904) 288-0908 or visit www.sislerjohnston.com.

Photography:

Sisler Johnston Interior Design uses emerging color trends when designing builder model homes.

1. A Tuscan chandelier was chosen by Sisler Johnston Interior Design to add elegance to a Parade of Homes showcase home in Flagler Beach.

2. Berkshire Living Room - Aquarium is a Florida favorite in Brylen Homes' Providence Island model.