How to Measure for a Dining Room Light

Measuring for a dining room light is simple yet important. If you don't measure properly before you shop for a dining room light, you could end up with a light fixture that is too small or too large for your dining room. Proportion is key to creating a dining atmosphere that appears welcoming and works to highlight the features of your dining room. It's also important to understand the dimensions of the location where you will hang the dining room light, so you don't choose a light fixture that is in proportion but hangs too low over the table. Once you know your measurements, choose a dining room light style that complements your decor and select a finish that matches what is already in the room. Your well-lit dining room will be worth the initial effort.

Measuring tape
Paper and pencil

Instructions

- 1
  Measure the width of your dining room table and write it down on a piece of paper. Then, subtract 12 inches from this number and circle it -- your dining room light should be no wider than this number. For example, if your dining room table is 48 inches wide, then your dining room light should be no wider than 36 inches.
- 2
  Measure the distance between the center of the dining room table and the dining room walls (or the single wall if you have an open floor plan) to make sure you'll have at least 48 inches of clearance between the dining room light and the walls to maintain proportion.
- 3
  Measure the distance from the floor to the ceiling if you don't already know your ceiling height (or aren't sure). Write this down on your paper. Your dining room light needs to hang between 30 and 34 inches above your dining room table if your ceilings are 8 feet tall, 33 to 37 inches for a 9-foot ceiling, and an additional 3 inches for every foot taller your ceiling is.

How to Protect Dining Chair Seats

How to Size for a Dining Room Light

Dining Room Furniture