Choosing the perfect lighting for your dining room is as much about practicality as it is creating a pleasant ambiance. Of course, you want to create a relaxing mood; still, it’s just as important to have enough illumination to enable you to see your dinner guests and serve the table.
From considering your existing dining room furniture and decor, to deciding on the optimal chandelier size or pendant placement, there are many things to consider when finding the ideal lighting for your dining room. Here are some recommendations from Colorado Style Home Furnishings to help you find lighting that will complement your dining table — and wow your guests.
Ceiling Lights
Chandeliers
The size of your dining room and the shape of your dining table will heavily influence your lighting options. If you’re looking to create an intimate atmosphere over a rectangular dining table, consider opting for a modern rectangular chandelier such as this white oak and wrought iron piece by Jamie Beckwith. The elongated shape helps to complement a rectangular table, while the use of wood creates a warm and comforting aura.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for a statement piece that’s a little more traditional in influence, consider a classic chandelier shape with an edgy update, such as our Eliana Chandelier. Classic chandeliers are versatile, and can be used to accent any table shape; however, it’s important to keep their diameter around half of the length of your table for optimal impact.
Pendant Lights
Pendant lights are another stylish option for over-table lighting, and especially suited to open-plan dining areas and large spaces. Whether you choose a single statement pendant or several smaller ones along the length of your table, there are options available to suit every style and budget. Give round dining tables a touch of glamor by adding a stunning crystal pendant light, or highlight a rectangular dining table by paying homage to the Edison bulb with our Chase pendant lights.
Flush-Mounted Lights
If you’re short on space and don’t have the drop for a chandelier or pendant light (ideally, there should be 30 inches between your dining table surface and your light fixture), you should consider a flush-mounted light fixture. Flush-mounted lights are ideal for rooms that have low ceilings and add a modern and clean aesthetic. For an on-trend mid-century modern look, choose our Metaphor Flush Mount.
Accent Lighting
When designing a relaxing and stylish dining space, it’s not only ceiling lights that you need to consider — accent lighting is important too. As one of the best ways to add diversity to your light set-up, accent lighting enables you to create the perfect mood for any occasion.
Wall Sconces
Wall sconces provide an additional design element to your dining room. For maximum effect, use them to highlight other furniture pieces such as a fireplace or stylish sideboard. Wall sconces should typically be placed at eye level (around 60 inches high in a dining space), or slightly higher than the furniture piece they’re accenting.
To add some elegance to your dining space, consider the simple silhouette and antique glass of our Marseille Wall Sconce. Alternatively, if you want to make a statement with your sconces, opt for a set of our unique Wisteria Trunk Sconce — inspired by the Wisteria vines located on the library terrace at the Biltmore Estate.
Lamps
Lamps are often overlooked when designing a dining space but, when chosen correctly, can be used to pull your whole dining aesthetic together.
If your dining room is more compact, table lamps can add much-needed light without sacrificing floor space. Consider adding one to your sideboard or credenza to make a statement, such as this stunning Mother of Pearl Cube Lamp.
However, if you have plenty of space to play with, a floor lamp can give another dynamic to your dining room lighting. For dramatic wow-factor, opt for a show stopper such as the Agave Americana Floor Candelabra. Alternatively, a chic and modern effect can be achieved with the clean lines and simple design of the wrought iron Lotz Floor Lamp.
Whether you want your dining room to be a celebration of chic dinner parties and gourmet meals, or an intimate space to be enjoyed by family and friends, Colorado Style Home Furnishings can provide you with the design inspiration you need.
