Since you said landlord, I'd like to point out that you and your son have no business screwing around with the fixtures. What you are proposing is illegal in most places.

"DOUBLE SWAG" into google does result in a lot of links towards fixtures that meet such requirements.

Sounds like a job for track lighting. They make all sorts of pendants and fixtures for them now.

It's a townhouse and I can change out fixtures as I please. I just can't run new wiring without permission and without hiring a licensed elec, something I wasn't really budgeting for. I can also hang plant hooks in the ceiling so yes, as long as it's safe, I can add a second fixture and swag one to the dining table and one more towards the cabinets. Landlord wasn't an accurate term; I should have said co-op rules.

Thanks Billl, I'll check out the track options. I'm going for a French country look, so really wanted chandeliers.

Is it safe to have two individuals though if I don't find a double I like?

Short of finding a listed fixture with two swags, you'd need to install a second box to hook up a second fixture. Track lighting is a good idea, they make elements for the track you can hang just about any sort of fixture from (most lamp stores actually use such to display their wares even).

I dont see why this would be a problem as long as you do not overload the circuit, and as long as you hang your fixtures from decent lag hooks into ceiling joists. I would not use less than 1/4 inch and you want to pilot drill the joist and go in at least 2 inches into wood. Drywall does not cut it and forget toggle bolts and mollies.

I have to have a second box? I was hoping the two fixtures could be connected together before going in to the box so they, in essence, became one fixture (I guess in a way making my own double swag). Is that not possible?

The problem is that the only legal options for replacing a built-in fixture here are:

1. Tracklighting (to connect to one lighting box)
2. Double-swag on one bell
3. Hire an electrician to put in a second box.

Depending on the weight of the fixture, you may find drywall anchors that will meet the requirement. Most anchors however are not rated for any sort of overhead load (they're only designed to support the weight in shear). Toggle bolts however are available that will hold up to around 50 lbs. Swag hooks typically come with both a screw stud and a toggle bolt for your choice of mounting.

What does "Double-swag on one bell" mean?

Bell below

Here is a link that might be useful:

OK, thank you. I think what I'll do is purchase a double swag that is as close as I can find to what I want and then swap out the globe for shades & crystals like I want. A little black spray paint should take care of the 70's brass finish.

"Bell" AKA 'canopy' or 'fixture canopy.'

Thanks so much lauratar and brickeyee! This is an old thread, but a common problem and I needed a good solution, too. Thanks so much lauratar and brickeyee!