High - Low lighting Project

What I wanted

What I Bought

I have recently become obsessed with lighting. In the past, I've kept light fixtures, chandeliers, and the like at an arm's length. They always seemed like some of the least inventive aspects of a space. Now that we have a house and opportunities to add lighting, I've been frustrated because apparently I have expensive lighting taste...

I recently found a builder grade chandelier on a yard sale site for a few bucks. I loved the lines that it had, but I hated the color and the globes that were on it. I decided to try and turn it into something new. I'm really glad I did, because just a few bucks and easy steps later, I ended up with a light that feels high-end. Here's what I learned as I went:

Lesson #1: Don't be afraid of the globes. Even if I liked the frame of a chandelier, ugly globes were a turn-off. However, the globes are SO EASY to take off, and are usually standardized for easy replacement. I decided to leave the globes off for this project.

Lesson #2: Textured spray paint works. I didn't like the smooth chrome finish of the chandelier; even painted, it would be too smooth. I wanted it to have an oil-rubbed bronze-hammered look. I used Rust-Oleum Textured Spray as a base coat with Rust-Oleum Protective Enamel Spray Paint in Flat Black on top. Layering the paints gave me exactly the look I wanted.

Lesson #3: ALWAYS check Ikea. I found a perfect drum shade at Ikea, and it was very reasonably priced. Seriously, who doesn't love Ikea?

I put it all together and my sweet husband hung it for me. Check out the finished product! ​

What I Made

We are really happy with how it turned out! I think it captures the look of an expensive light for a fraction of the price. Looking for new lighting? Go fish out that old fixture from the garage and turn it into something you'll love!