I usually make it a habit to visit a Crate and Barrel Store periodically since I find their vignettes interesting. This time my visit to the Massachusetts Avenue Store in Washington DC's Spring Valley was no exception. What caught my eye this time were the very appealing dining room chandeliers that come in a variety of shapes and sizes. These are contemporary and affordable. They will add a very cool contemporary feeling to any kitchen or dining room area.

These lighting fixtures and shades are relatively large and just call attention to themselves. If you are looking to establish a focal point in your eat-in kitchen or dining area, these lights may fill the bill. Although most of the shapes are cylindrical, they go well with rectangular tables as well. In fact, if you have a very long table, try buying two shades and using them over the table for better lighting. The shades may also work well in a living room area as shown below.

Most of the shades are white/off white and do burn regular incandescent light bulbs and compact fluorescent bulbs. The lighting provided was quite good. Disclosure: we're not being paid to promote these products by Crate & Barrel. We just think the lights are cool and offer a good value.

Chandeliers that create visual interest

1. The Claudine Chandelier is my favorite. I really like its trapezoidal shape. It's priced at $299. See http://www.crateandbarrel.com/family.aspx?c=1240&f=35425 for details.
   
2. The Finley Pendant lamp is light and airy. It's priced at $149. If you have a long table that seats 8 or 10, consider buying two of these and combining them. Measure your table first and head down to the store to see if it will work. See http://www.crateandbarrel.com/family.aspx?c=1240&f=30938
   
3. The Trey Pendant Lamp is a bit more formal and is priced at $229. It's small size makes it idea for a small table or double up on it for a rectangular table. See it at http://www.crateandbarrel.com/family.aspx?c=1240&f=6912
   
4. Eclipse Pendant Lamp  is sleek and formal and at $299 is the most expensive. That dark color will go with a space that has warm colors in it. See http://www.crateandbarrel.com/family.aspx?c=1240&f=35010