The holidays are a time for warmth, joy, and, most importantly, gathering around the table. At Hortons Home Lighting in La Grange and Orland Park, we know that the right illumination is essential to setting a magical scene. Your dining room lighting is the centerpiece for your Christmas dinner.

Here are five easy lighting design tips you can implement now to perfect your lighting before your Christmas guests arrive. Stop by today.

Optimize Your Bulb’s Color Temperature (Kelvin)

The quickest way to ruin a festive mood is with harsh, blue-white light. For the perfect holiday lighting ambiance, you need to think about color temperature, measured in Kelvin (K).

The Fix: Swap out any light bulbs brighter than 3000K for those in the 2200K to 2700K range. This lower Kelvin range emits a soft, warm, amber-yellow light that mimics candlelight. It instantly makes a room feel cozier, flatters skin tones, and enhances the rich colors of your holiday meal and decor. You'll find the best dining room lighting bulbs with this color at our local lighting store.

Master the Dimmers for Layered Light

A single light level is a hosting amateur mistake. Great lighting is about layering, which is why dimmers are a game-changer.

The Fix: Use your main overhead fixture to provide general, even light when setting the table, but once guests sit down, dim it significantly. Supplement this with two other light sources—perhaps wall sconces or tall buffet lamps—to create depth.

Embrace the "Candlelight Trick" with Table Lamps

If you don't have overhead lights or just want extra sparkle, bring in auxiliary lighting at table level.

The Fix: Place a pair of small, elegant buffet lamps or battery-operated pillar candles (in attractive holders) on a nearby hutch, console, or sideboard. This soft, dispersed light is one of the most effective lighting design tips for creating a high-end feel.

Highlight with Subtle String Lights

Holiday lighting doesn't have to stop at the tree. Strategic use of mini lights adds that magical festive twinkle.

The Fix: We recommend using micro LED string lights with thin wire. This subtle sparkle reflects off dinnerware and crystal, adding a sophisticated, fairy-tale touch without overpowering the central dining room lighting fixture.

Clean Your Fixtures for Maximum Brilliance

Dust and grime can absorb up to 30% of your fixture's light output—which you certainly don't want when trying to make a festive statement!

The Fix: Before you start decorating, give your chandelier or pendant light a quick, careful cleaning.. A clean, brilliant fixture instantly amplifies the light, ensuring your chosen best dining room lighting investment shines as brightly as your holiday spirit.

STOP BY TODAY

Stop by Hortons Home Lighting in La Grange or Orland Park to speak with one of our ALA-certified consultants and find the perfect bulbs and fixtures for your holiday home!

Shop Today