It’s a bad day to be a big light in 2026 – unless, of course, you’re a multi-shade chandelier, which, as a slew of recent interiors projects would have it, is about the only acceptable living room lighting right now.
Instead of a set of exposed bulbs (riffing on the analog candelabra look we love but are likely bored of), each one gets its own little shade, casting a softer, less abrasive glow the family won’t have to fight over. In a recent colorful Colorado project by Boulder-based designer Emily Tucker, six shades of fresh white linen sit against shiny brass arms overhead in the family room. ‘The individual shades of softening and diffusing light provide a large fixture with an added sense of intimacy,’ notes New York and New Jersey-based designer Swati Goorha.
But of course, with new drops from Pooky – offering a pattern-filled buffet of Morris & Co. botanicals, orange zig-zag ikats, or 160 others – alongside Anthropologie’s natural rattan and Pierce & Ward’s ’swanky ’70s scallops for West Elm, more surface area means more room to play.
For once, we’re pro-big light. Meet the 16 multi-shade chandeliers making overhead living room lighting chic again.
The Cut is all about Homes & Gardens helping you invest in pieces that feel current now, but won’t date as trends shift. Finds that elevate a room today and still feel right years from now. Whether it’s a sculptural accent chair or a chic pendant light, our editors will curate an edit that balances style, longevity, and quality. Consider this your shortcut to smart, beautiful shopping.
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