Tips on Lighting Your Dining Room

The most frequently asked question regarding chandeliers for the dining room is how high should it be hung in relationship to the table. The general height of the main source of light should be 30" - 36" above the table. There should be a minimum of 150 watts total in the chandelier. Consider using a dimmer to vary the illumination to match your preferred dining atmosphere. For family dinners, you most likely want a bright cheerful light. For formal dinners a soft flattering light is generally more desireable. Just as dining tables come in varying sizes, so do chandeliers. Visit your local Thomas distributor to compare the different size chandeliers with your table measurements.

Your room dimensions play a big role in your final chandelier selection. Here are some recommended guides for the size of chandelier in relationship to the size of the room.

Room	Diameter of Chandelier
10' x 10'	17" - 20"
12' x 12'	20" - 26"
14' x 14'	24" - 30"

Many people choose to have the style of their chandelier selection set the theme for the dining room. Recessed lighting, in addition to a chandelier, can provide that extra punch to get your table to demand attention. Adding recessed lighting to the corners of the room will visually expand the room making it appear larger. Sconces (wall brackets) come in many styles so matching the chandelier is easy and they are valuable in shedding subtle light on a sideboard or serving table. Sconces can also accent a mirror to give depth to a room and are a big asset for buffet entertaining.