You'd be forgiven if the sculptural wooden chandelier wasn't the first detail you noticed in Gwyneth Paltrow's dining room. The bold and contemporary scheme is a feast for the eyes, and amid the modernist furniture and whimsical wallpaper, the lighting feels more like a secondary focus. However, it plays a crucial role in framing and subtly defining the room, thanks to designer Brigette Romanek's artful skill with layering materials and form.
Getting dining room lighting right is crucial, not only to the style of the room, but also to ensure the right ambiance. Val Nehez, Principal Designer at Studio IQL in Philadelphia, explains: 'Statement ceiling lighting defines a dining room before anyone even takes a seat. It anchors the table, sets the mood, and creates an immediate sense of occasion. We often look for sculptural forms that introduce softness or contrast; something that feels intentional rather than purely ornamental.'
