When friend come over for the evening, often the excitement is centered around the meal. Great lighting can make even the most humble meal a star. Just as in successful restaurants, ambiance is an important factor. If people feel good and comfortable in a restaurant, they tend to subconsciously include that factor in the establishment’s overall appeal.
At home, the same principles apply. Typically, a dining room will be illuminated by a chandelier. The problem is that this single light source is usually turned up so high that its glare overpowers the room visually, eclipsing everything else. The solution is to add fill light and highlighting so that the chandelier can be just a sparking glow while giving the illusion of providing the room’s light.
Lighting techniques
The necessary general illumination can come from wall scones, torchieres, or cove lighting. Some manufactures include a second source of indirect light inside their chandeliers, which is switched separately from the candle part, so that each can be dimmed or brightened to a pleasant level.
Feature lighting, such as recessed adjustable fixtures or tracking light fixtures, will highlight art and the centerpiece to add a dramatic touch.
More than a dining room
In reality, the dining room table often becomes a work space when the owners are not entertaining. The availability of a bright indirect light will provide excellent shadowless illumination for when bills are being paid or tax records are being sorted out. Controllable light lets the dining room serve whatever purpose is desired.
