The quickest way to add a touch (or more) of elegance to your dining room is to hang a stunning chandelier. Quintessential dining room lighting fixtures, and chandeliers evoke feelings of luxury and sophistication. They provide ample lighting while also serving as decorative pieces that bring your vision to life. However, leveling a chandelier correctly ensures it’s both functional and visually appealing.

Why Proper Positioning of a Dining Room Chandelier is Important

Because chandeliers are such attention-getters, their positioning can significantly impact the dining room’s overall aesthetic and functionality. Too high, and they may not provide enough light, too low, and they will obstruct the vision of the diners around the table. Additionally, if the chandelier is not centered correctly, it can throw off the room’s balance. Therefore, it’s crucial to consider the ideal height and center point for your chandelier installation.

AERIN Jacqueline 32 Inch 12 Light Chandelier by Visual Comfort Signature Collection

Non-traditional chandeliers like the AERIN Jacqueline 32 Inch 12 Light Chandelier by Visual Comfort Signature Collection are a sparkling addition to modern dining rooms. It easily pairs with the dining table to create a stunning focal point destined to catch the eye of everyone who sees it.

Determining the Ideal Height for Your Dining Room Chandelier

The ideal height for dining room chandeliers is typically between 30 to 36 inches above the table. However, this height may vary based on the ceiling height and the chandelier’s size. For example, if you have a high ceiling, hang the chandelier slightly lower to make it more of a focal point. Similarly, if you have a small dining room or a low ceiling, you may want to hang the chandelier higher to prevent it from overpowering the room. For more details, check out our Guide to Hanging a Chandelier in Your Dining Room.

AERIN Cristol 33 Inch 17 Light Chandelier by Visual Comfort Signature Collection

This small dining area is bright and modern, lit by the AERIN Cristol 33 Inch 17 Light Chandelier by Visual Comfort Signature Collection. A constellation of luminous glass globes, this chandelier brings the perfect amount of old-world glamour and contemporary design to this dining room. The rounded glass globes soften the many angles found in this space.

Finding the Center Point for Your Chandelier Installation

To properly position your chandelier, you’ll need to find the center point of your dining room table. To do this, measure the length and width of your table and divide each number by two. The point where these two lines intersect is the center point of your table. This is where you should center your chandelier.

AERIN Charlton 55 Inch 3 Light Chandelier by Visual Comfort Signature Collection

The AERIN Charlton 55 Inch 3 Light Chandelier by Visual Comfort Signature Collection brings the viewer’s eye up while highlighting the gorgeous gold-printed wallpaper. Framed by the window, its striking good looks are easily enjoyed from the adjoining kitchen, creating a balanced and cohesive space.

How to Position Your Dining Room Chandelier Based on Room Size and Shape

In addition to the height and center point, you’ll need to consider the size and shape of your dining room when positioning your chandelier. The chandelier’s position should be in relation to the table and not the room, if possible. This means if you have a rectangular or oval table, you’ll want to position the chandelier so that it’s parallel to the table’s longer side. For a round table, the chandelier should be directly above the center of the table.

Hubbardton Forge Cityscape 51 Inch LED Linear Suspension Light

Subtle and sophisticated, the Hubbardton Forge Cityscape 51 Inch LED Linear Suspension Light floats gently under this stunning ceiling that acts as a fifth wall. All the attention goes up to the pairing of the glowing skyline and background in shades of gray and purple, evoking the look and feel of a city at dusk.

Julie Neill Alberto 30 Inch 6 Light Chandelier by Visual Comfort Signature Collection

The whimsical style and unique casual design of the Julie Neill Alberto 30 Inch 6 Light Chandelier by Visual Comfort Signature Collection brings an eye-catching conversation piece into this dining room. Centered over the round wood and glass table and framed by the window, it creates a charming vignette.

Tips for Leveling Your Dining Room Chandelier

Once you’ve determined your chandelier’s ideal position and height, ensure its level. Here are some tips to help you level your chandelier:

• Use a level to ensure the chandelier is straight.
• Adjust the height of the chandelier to ensure its level.
• If your chandelier has chains or rods, ensure they’re even on both sides.
• Check the chandelier’s connection to the ceiling to ensure it’s secure and level.

Adding Dimmer Switches for Further Lighting Control

To further enhance your dining room lighting, consider adding dimmer switches. Light dimmers elevate the fixture into show-stopping focal points and highly functional workhorses. They allow you to control the brightness of your chandelier, creating a more relaxed and intimate atmosphere for dinner parties or romantic evenings.

Tilda 5 Light Mini Chandelier by Arteriors Home by Arteriors Home

This chic dining room ticks all the boxes: bold black and white colors, one-of-a-kind ceiling, beautiful furniture, and the magnificent Tilda 5 Light Mini Chandelier by Arteriors Home by Arteriors Home. It’s the perfect setting for intimate meals, with mood lighting controlled by a dimmer switch.