Designing with Light in the Dining Room
Dining room lighting should be both beautiful and functional. This
requires a mix of general, task, and accent lighting that can set the
mood for a number of functions, including a formal dinner, a family
get-together, and other activities such as homework, hobbies, or family
bookkeeping. Dimming controls will enable you to vary the light for each
occasion (see lighting controls).
A chandelier is the focal point
of the dining room. Suspended over the dining table, it serves as a
decorative style element that enhances the beauty of your fine
furnishings. When the light is dimmed, a soft, glowing atmosphere
similar to candlelight is created. If equipped with a downlight, the
chandelier provides task lighting for the table and accent lighting for
a centerpiece.
Recessed or track lighting
provides general lighting, while enabling you to highlight prized
possessions throughout the room. A ring of four recessed downlights
around the dining table supplements the light from the chandelier, while
providing accent lighting for your tableware. The pure white light of
low-voltage fixtures with tungsten-halogen bulbs will make your crystal
and silverware sparkle (see light sources).
A buffet
or sideboard can be flanked with wall sconces on either side. Choose
fixtures that complement the style of your chandelier. Displayed objects
can be accented with recessed downlights installed in the ceiling above.
