A lot depends on which way the existing cable enters the box. if you're moving it toward the cable's source, it's not too tough. You rip out the old box and install a new old-work box, then patch the old hole in the ceiling. (Warning - other code issues may arise, depending on the age and condition of your existing wiring.)

But if you want to move it further away, your options are more limited because you can't extend the cable inside the ceiling with a concealed splice. That's contrary to code and hazardous. In that case you can :

1. Splice more cable inside the existing box and put a cover on it (it MUST remain accessable; you can't plaster or drywall over it). Extend the new cable to where you want the new box.

2. Replace the cable completely, fishing the new one all the way back to the switch box. This is not a trivial job.

All other solutions I can think of will be cosmetically less desirable. Swagging is the obvious choice but you don't like that. Another is to use surface mounted wiremold boxes. Most people don't like those either.

Bottom line is that if you're not familiar with electrical work you probably will need to call a pro. After you see the estimate, you may decide you don't mind the swag after all. ;-)

Another solution is to purchase a track and track feed that will provide the desired effect. Many times, if this is the only light in the area, you can not only put a chandelier on the track (less than 25 lbs.) but you can add some track heads to brighten the area. We did this at our beach house many years ago and have done the same for others that did not want to do major electrical work.

Track companies make a part that the chandelier may be wired to directly to the track. You may have to go to a lighting showroom (not a box store) to get this, but it is not difficult to obtain.

The track idea sounds easier than trying to move the box.
Has anyone seen these online? Thanks.

Carolyn

You can check out WAC Lighting, Lightolier, Juno, Halo, Nora Lighting or any other track line. They should have chandelier adaptors listed. If not on their website, visit a lighting showroom and ask them about it. There are a few things to keep in mind:

1. There is a weight limit on the chandelier.
2. You will probably need to use a line voltage chandelier.

If you have any other questions, let me know. Check out the manufacturers websites above to see if they have the product. Each of them makes it, it is just a matter of whether the information is on the web.