Custom Chandelier Design: How Ria Harman Creates Statement Pieces

Creating a custom chandelier is like composing a symphony in metal and light. Each element must work in harmony to create something greater than the sum of its parts. My process has evolved over years of practice, but the core principles remain constant: understand the space, honor the client's vision, and craft something that will inspire for generations.

Initial Consultation and Space Analysis

Every custom chandelier begins with understanding the space it will inhabit. I visit each client's home to experience the room's proportions, natural light patterns, and architectural details firsthand. Digital photos can't capture the subtle interplay of shadows and highlights that influence design decisions.

During these consultations, I listen not just to what clients say they want, but to how they use their space. A formal dining room requires different lighting than a casual breakfast nook, even if both need chandeliers of similar size.

Design Development and Sketching

I begin every design with hand sketches, exploring proportions and material combinations before moving to technical drawings. This analog approach allows for creative exploration that digital tools often constrain.

Material selection drives much of the design process. The way copper catches and reflects light differs dramatically from brass or steel, and these properties must be considered from the earliest design stages.

Fabrication and Assembly

Large chandeliers require careful planning and modular construction. We design pieces that can be partially assembled in the workshop, then completed during installation to ensure perfect fit and alignment.

The electrical design is equally important—modern chandeliers often incorporate dimmable controls and smart technology integration, requiring careful coordination between aesthetic and functional elements.

Installation and Final Adjustments

Installation day is where months of planning culminate. I personally oversee every installation, making final adjustments to height, level, and lighting balance that can only be done in the actual space.