A Guide to Fandeliers

There is a bit of a controversy around ceiling fans.

They are functional, but not very attractive. It’s one of the first things many designers remove. If you live in the south you may put up a fight over the removal of your beloved fan.

I was recently in Key West and toured the Hemingway house. Pauline, Hemingway’s second wife, had all the ceiling fans removed and replaced with chandeliers. That was a decision I’m sure both regretted! On the tour they had fans blowing in every room and it was still hot! Beautiful fandeliers could have been the perfect compromise.

Form Following Function

There has been some progress in the fandelier market. When they were first introduced they were small and really only made sense in a small bedroom. Now I’m seeing larger sizes and various styles.

They may not be for everyone, but there is a market for them. I would definitely consider them in a child’s bedroom, and could be a compromise in a master bedroom. I did find some larger fandeliers, 36”plus, that could work in a great room.

Note: A key thing to remember is the size of the room relates to the size of the ceiling light fixture. The formula is length of the room (in feet) + the width of the room (in feet) equals the minimum diameter (in inches) for the fixture. For example: a room 18’l x 18’w = 36” diameter for the ceiling light fixture.

What little princess wouldn’t love this 20” fandelier in her room from Young Render?

This 30” Hunter Brookside fandalier is modern and sleek—receiving great reviews for being quiet and providing a nice air flow.

For larger spaces where there is a lot of air to move, like a great room, you need to consider the room dimensions, including the ceiling height. This Cocostar Wagon Wheel fandelier is 44” and reviewers were satisfied with the air flow and the quietness of the fan.

Here were a few others that caught my attention:

Whether you’re team ceiling fan, team chandelier, or somewhere in the middle with a gorgeous fandelier, the right choice comes down to your style, your space, and your comfort.

If you’re feeling stuck or simply want a home that looks as good as it functions, that’s where Merulla Interiors comes in. Let’s create a design plan that blends beauty and practicality—so every room works for the way you live.