Choosing the Right Dining Room Lights

Looking for dining room lighting is a foreboding task. You want something that will accentuate but not detract, illuminate but not overwhelm. What makes it even harder to choose the right dining room lights is that this particular room is meant to be admired for its style and grace. On the other hand, the dining room is also used to entertain guests, enjoy meals and finish up homework, and proper lighting is essential for each of these varied tasks. So, naturally, the pressure is on. Fortunately, we've compiled a helpful shopping guide to pilot you through this experience so that you come out unscathed and maybe even satisfied with your purchase. Here are the most frequently asked questions about choosing the right dining room lighting for your home.

Dining Room Chandelier

Q: All my friends told me that my house needs a dining room chandelier, but I don't know where to start. What is the right height, size and style dining room chandelier for me?

A: 30" above the tabletop is the lowest you should hang your dining room chandelier. How high will depend on the size of your ceiling and fixture. You should also make sure the width of your dining room chandelier is no more than half the width of your table to avoid an unbalanced appearance. Which style is right for you really depends on your personal taste. These pieces come in a wide array of styles, sizes, finishes and branches, so choose the dining room chandelier that speaks to you.

As an aside, if you are hesitant about a classic dining room chandelier, consider a pendant light fixture. Pendants are the simplified and contemporary version of the traditional dining room chandelier.

What type of dining room lighting is good for dinner guests?

A: Low lighting that is not too dull is ideal for hosting company. You don't want bright lighting that will make guests feel as if they are being inspected. On the other hand, food must be well lit to be enjoyed properly. A central ceiling fixture with a few well-paced wall sconces is what we recommend.

Q: What type of dining room lights will accentuate my showpieces such as breakfront contents, china cabinet or art pieces?

A: Recessed and track lighting can accentuate specific areas and highlight showpieces. Also under cabinet lighting can help illuminate the interior of a china cabinet or breakfront.

Q: Which dining room lighting will help to maximize the little room I have in my dining room?

A: Uplights will throw the light upward and expand the space in a room. Track lighting fixtures positioned properly can also do this. If you prefer hanging dining room lights, use smaller pendants, even if you need multiple fixtures to accommodate the entire area. A set of three pendant lights, for example, in a line or triangle formation will not take up the space of bulkier dining room lights, and will give you plenty of illumination. Also, choose light fixtures in lighter tones. Light colors open up smaller rooms.

Dining Room Lighting

In general, proper dining room lighting consists of layered lighting. This means multiple light fixtures that are hung at appropriate and varying levels and heights, adjusting the height to the people who frequent the room and the activities that most often occur there. A combination of wall sconces, ceiling fixtures and lamps geared towards specific areas and activities will yield optimum results. For some more illuminating ideas on attractive dining room lights, browse our dining room lighting section.