It can be argued that the dining room can be equally or perhaps the most important room in the house.It stands in contention with the bedroom.Both are places where we re-energize in different ways.When it comes to the atmosphere of the dining room,where we gather with friends and especially family,the space,mood and psychology created by lighting has profound effects and implications.
The balance between illuminating the whole of the dining room or a portion of it is delicate and requires considerable thought.Just as in visual art,emphasis,subordination,and contrast are primary principles used to create an overall aesthetic experience.Focusing too much light solely on the table can create a confined feeling,so accenting softly on the exterior walls gives one a sense of space,yet keeps them involved comfortably around the ding table.
Tips:
Use non-uniform distribution,wall lighting,and lower light levels,typically.The dining room provides an opportunity to organize the experiences between dramatic and subtle.A hanging fixture is always a must above the table to create the emphasis,and there are considerations to be made in the selection.Choose a fixture suitable for the space;a large crystal chandelier in a small dining space can overpower,while a small pendant in a larger dining room will quickly diminish its presence with insufficient illumination.Whenever possible,install with your overhead lighting a dimmer switch to allow you the ability to control the mood of the room.If the dining room is a place of other activities,it's nice to have the freedom to brighten the room for them.A quiet,romantic dinner,however,will require a lower,intimate glow.
Mei Pendant Light by Bover
Cascade 30″Round Triple Pendant by Stonegate
Artichoke Pendant by Louis Poulsen
Wall sconces are sublime for preserving the sense of spaciousness within the room.The choices of sconces are innumerable,so there is always that special design that will compliment the interiors of your dining room.If you have warm walls,warmer sconces work wonderfully,while more modern,sleeker metals blend with lighter hues.Choose appropriate wattage for your sconces.If adding background lighting,choose a softer,lower watt bulb.To highlight an object you may choose a stronger,more narrower beamed light.
Chianti Diamond Wall Sconce by Bruck
Wonton Wall Sconce by Robert Abbey
Virgins Wall Sconce by Terzani
If you prefer not to use sconces to focus on special wall objects,such as artwork or other displayed items,you can make use of recessed or track lighting for accents.These kinds of lights can subtly illuminate areas of your dining room and keep wall real estate clear.It can even give a pleasing effect to the area.
Ledra R Swivel Recessed Light by Bruck
Rainbow Spot Light by Bruck
