If you're in the market for a dining room light fixture or two, you may find yourself intimidated by the sheer number of options out there. With so many great choices—in a myriad of style categories—it's difficult to know which iteration is the correct fit for your home. To help you on your way, consider this tip: If you're shopping for a light to hang above your dining room table, seek out a fixture that allows for plenty of headroom. The rule of thumb when hanging dining room lighting is that your pendant or chandelier falls at least three feet above your tabletop—or roughly six feet from your floor. And since the space between your table and your lighting choice needs to be able to accommodate food, serving platters, table décor, and you and your family, of course, you'll want to ensure these measurements are correct.
Additionally, you'll want to make sure that your fixture sheds ample light on the subject, sans burning too hot or too bright. While this can often be accomplished by increasing or decreasing the wattage of the lightbulbs you put into these hangings, some are only rated for certain types of bulbs—so you'll want to double check the types of bulbs that your pendant takes and to ensure they are rated for the ambience you're trying to create.
On the subject of bulbs, you don't want a model that calls for specialty or expensive lighting systems; when your chandelier's bulbs burn out, you should be able to replace them easily and affordably. As for our last piece of advice, before we share with you our favorite dining room lighting fixtures to buy right now? When you're shopping for a model, you'll need to consider whether or not you will be installing it yourself—or if you will need to hire a professional. Some iterations can only properly be installed by a licensed electrician or other contracting professional.
Paper Lantern
This option draws its inspiration from the whimsical and romantic look of paper lanterns. Complete with an adjustable hanger, this paper string-wrapped pendant also speaks to a myriad of home styles.
Glass
Searching for a choice with a minimalist vibe? Bookmark this iteration. The six-bulb hanging light is made with mouth-blown frosted glass, which is then shaped into conical lampshades for a warm, but modern feel.
Sculptural
Take the guesswork out of shopping for dining room light fixtures with this customizable option from West Elm. Choose your preferred metal for the canopy finish and then pick from one of five different glass geometric shades (including ombré, frosted, and clear finishes) to complete your look.
Statement
This transitional chandelier instantly elevates your dining room's décor. The tapered white fabric lampshade can be tilted—which allows you to direct the light stream—and the plated brass finish adds subtle elegance.
Geometric
Update a more traditional light fixture with this geometric design from George Oliver. The four-light chandelier will steal the show, whether it is on or off. Crafted using a basket framework, it softly illuminates your dining space.
Domed
This simple dome light is pretty in pink with a blush colored frosted glass shade.
Iron Option
With a clean, classic design and simple iron and blown glass construction, this light fixture maximizes overhead wattage thanks to clear glass shades.
Cocktail Pendant Light
Its name may be inspired by happy hour, but this two-tiered light by Selamat provides the perfect level of light during every meal. Wrapped in jute, the pendant can pull double-duty and be used over your indoor or outdoor dining tables.
Contemporary Globe Light
If you're looking for a show-stopping lighting option, this contemporary pendant by Tram is the perfect choice. Made from wood, frosted glass, and golden finishes, the modern take on dining room lighting even works across eating and dwelling spaces (which means it's perfect for an open floor plan)
Artful Pendant
The brass-finished chandelier looks more like a piece of art than a lamp. The delicate lines echo brush strokes.
Swoop Arm
This swoop arm chandelier is a new take on a classic design. Its frame mimics a traditional chandelier's construction but is more minimal by design; it culminates in a bare bulb and doesn't have any additional hanging crystal or class.
Small and Subtle
Turn your dining room into a bohemian oasis with this pendant lamp, complete with rattan weaving over the geometric metal frame. This piece is small enough that you could add more than one to your space—or consider adding a second to smaller rooms like your powder room or reading area for design continuity.
**Post and Images by MarthaStewart.com 12/1/2020 by Lauren Wellback
