Colonial Lighting Fixtures

Chandeliers

• A traditional colonial chandelier is made of wood or wrought iron and consists of a decorative central pillar with curved arms extending around the perimeter for holding candles. More elaborate models have multiple tiers of arms and are typically hung in a communal gathering space such as a living room or dining room. For a room with rustic, colonial decor, look for an authentic reproduction of a wrought iron colonial chandelier. If your decor is modern or eclectic, a simple, single-tier colonial-style chandelier adds a historical flourish.

Pendants and Lampshades

• Hanging pendant lights and shade lights are smaller than chandeliers and useful over a desk or in a study or breakfast nook. Colonial pendant lights traditionally were made of tin or brass and consisted of a base plate for a candle and a shade that covered the flame and often featured decorative etchings or metalwork. Reproductions of such fixtures would fit in nicely with rustic or country decor. Similar fixtures can be found in the form of standing lamps, which make great sources of lighting for end tables and night stands.

Bar Lights and Sconces

• Smaller lighting fixtures, such as sconces or horizontal bar lighting, were commonly used for lighting hallways and passageways in the house or barn during colonial times. Single-candle sconces were often made of tin with hammered detailing, and bar lighting fixtures could be made of wood or tin with decorative appliques such as stars. In today's homes, reproductions of colonial sconces and bar lighting can be useful in rooms that require layered lighting, such as the bathroom or entryway.

Exterior Lighting

• Colonial-style lanterns, which are usually made of an iron frame with beveled glass casing, are classic fixtures for outdoor lighting, whether on the porch, the exterior of the house or garage, or in the garden. Place a lantern sconce outside your door or fix a hanging lantern from the porch ceiling. A classic lamppost adds a traditional touch to an outdoor garden path or walkway.