Whether you’re gathering for a casual family meal or throwing an elegant dinner party, the dining room must look its best. Increasingly a multi-purpose area, this room is an everyday hub for activities and a special place to gather. Choosing a dining room light that suits your style is crucial to a well-designed and enjoyable dining area. Whether you want to create a cozy atmosphere or an elegant ambiance, lighting plays a critical role.

These days, contemporary lighting design has few rules, and that rings true for lights over a dining room table just as much as it does for other areas of the home. It’s all about getting a look that matches your personality and style. There are so many types of dining room lighting to choose from, it can be challenging to choose which one is best for your home. The ideas below can inspire you when looking for the correct dining room fixtures.

What Kind of Light Goes above a Dining Table?

Above-the-dining table lighting means statement pieces such as chandeliers or pendants. The dining table is an automatic focal point in the room, highlighted by stunning lighting suspended above it. The chandelier may not be the only lighting in the room, but it will undoubtedly be the most noticeable. Dining room pendant lights center the space and create a focal point in much the way they do for kitchen islands. This is a great way to show off your design personality. The lighting puts the finishing touch on the design.

Hedy 22 Inch Large Pendant by Currey and Company

Mesmerizing turquoise and jade polished glass paired with a classic shape make this casual dining space feel special on all occasions. The Hedy 22 Inch Large Pendant by Currey and Company elevates the design without making it feel overdone and fussy. It’s the perfect counterpoint to the marble tabletop and adds depth and richness.

Calypso 30 Inch 6 Light Chandelier by Crystorama

It’s easy to imagine this dining room filled with family, friends, and delicious food. The Calypso 30 Inch 6 Light Chandelier by Crystorama brings a cozy feel to this modern space. Its less-is-more vibe is dressy enough for company and casual enough for everyday dining.

What Can I Use Instead of a Chandelier or Pendant?

Longer than a chandelier or pendant light, linear lighting suspension lights are an excellent alternative for a large dining room. These light fixtures work well centered over rectangular tables, bringing impactful style as it spreads illumination throughout the room. They blend neatly into any dining room style, with designs ranging from contemporary to mid-century to rustic. Although modern at its core, suspension lighting can fit into any dining room’s aesthetic.

Nula 48 Inch 14 Light Linear Suspension Light by Hinkley Lighting

Simple but dramatic, the Nula 48 Inch 14 Light Linear Suspension Light by Hinkley Lighting brings attention t the entertaining area. It makes a gorgeous statement juxtaposing organic influences and industrial elements. The contemporary cluster of lights adds a sense of drama to the dining room while providing functional lighting on many levels. The white shell exterior and gleaming gold leaf interior create a dramatic effect.

Alora Lighting Tagliato 40 Inch LED Linear Suspension Light

A dining room fixture is a great way to flex your design muscle. Instead of going with a tried and true look, go with lighting slightly outside your usual. The chic Alora Lighting Tagliato 40 Inch LED Linear Suspension Light does just that. It delivers a contemporary blend of understated finishes and bold design. Neutral tones and fun shapes give it a unique appeal.

How High Should Lighting Be above a Dining Table?

Hanging chandeliers and large pendants in the dining room is a delicate affair. They need to be at just the right height. If they are too high, they won’t get the attention they deserve; if they are too low, they will obstruct diners’ vision. A general rule is that the lowest part of the lighting should be 3-5 feet above the top of the table.

Tilda 5 Light Mini Chandelier by Arteriors Home by Arteriors Home

In this supremely chic dining room, the Tilda 5 Light Mini Chandelier by Arteriors Home by Arteriors Home anchors the space. The chandelier’s branches emit a glowing light that enhances the room without overwhelming the rest of the room. This soft light establishes a cozy atmosphere that makes family and friends feel instantly relaxed and comfortable.

Aerin Cristol 33 Inch 17 Light Chandelier by Visual Comfort and Co.

Brass plays a critical, if subtle, role in this dining room. The setting is neutral white with touches of brass throughout, including the cabinet hardware, framed artwork, and light fixtures. The Aerin Cristol 33 Inch 17 Light Chandelier by Visual Comfort and Co. puts a contemporary spin on a traditional style, while the white glass globes provide a beautiful glow. The chandelier brings impact and warm radiating light that sets this dining area apart.

Orbital 28 Inch Large Pendant by Varaluz

Mid-century and space age design in the Orbital 28 Inch Large Pendant by Varaluz to create wow-worthy lighting. Gold dust finish, textured center hub, and a galaxy of crystals make this the ultimate stargazing experience. It is ideal for dining rooms that are on the eclectic side.