At What Height Should I Mount A Dining Room Light Fixture

Chandelier height can also be dependent on the height of the ceiling.

The proper height for hanging a dining room light fixture can vary greatly based on many different factors. For example, a chandelier would not be installed at the same height as a flush mount light fixture. When installing a dining room light fixture, there are many factors to take into account, including the size and type of light fixture being installed, the height of the dining room table and the height of the ceiling.

Light Fixture Types

Although many people associate dining rooms with a chandeliers, nearly any fixture can work well in a dining room. Fixtures that can be used include chandeliers and mini chandeliers, pendant lights, flush-mount fixtures, semi-flush mount fixtures, drum shade chandeliers and even wall sconces.

Ceiling Height

The standard room height for most rooms is 8 feet. However, dining rooms may feature vaulted ceilings that are up to 18 feet or higher. Height must be taken into consideration when hanging or mounting a dining room light fixture.

Fixture Size

Choose a fixture that fits within the dining room without being too overpowering in size or too small. Smaller fixtures are often easier to hang, but may look minuscule and "off" over a larger table, just as a large chandelier may look inappropriate in a small dining room with a smaller dining set.

Height for Fixtures

Flush-mount and semi-flush mount fixtures will come with instructions and the proper equipment that will designate their height in a dining room. Often, the height of these fixtures cannot be changed. Hang chandeliers between 27 and 36 inches from the top of the dining table, with a minimum of 18 inches between the top of the chandelier and the ceiling. Hang pendant lights at the same height. If a member of your household or a frequent guest is especially tall, be sure that the fixture is high enough that he will not bump his head when sitting down or standing up in the dining room.

Tip

Since there is no accepted standard for hanging or mounting a light fixture, it is sometimes best to eyeball the installation of the light fixture. You'll need a second person to hold the fixture up over the table while you choose a height for the fixture.

Tags: dining room, dining room, light fixture, dining room light, light fixture