I would like suggestions on lighting options. Our kitchen is open to the dining room and currently under renovation. The sink is in the peninsula between the kitchen and dining room and I'm confused as to whether to used pendants over the peninsula, or a chandelier in the dining room. Can I use both? I feel like 2 hanging fixtures would compete with each other. It's a relatively small space, the kitchen is 9' x 12' and the dining room is approx. 8' square. Please help!
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Hello CarrieQ,
I think that the right pendants for each space won't compete with each other, but just keep them simple in such a small space. Here are some articles and galleries to give you some ideas:
http://houseandhome.com/design/common-lighting-problems
http://houseandhome.com/design/hanging-lights
http://houseandhome.com/design/photo-gallery-kitchen-tables-islands
Good luck with the kitchen reno!
Gwen McAuley (gmcauley at hhmedia.com)
Seems to me you not only can use both but maybe should use both. You will need lighting over the peninsula sometimes and you will probably need lighting over the table sometimes. Chances are neither will be overly bright so having both on (especially if you have them on dimmers) will give you lots of options and ensure you do have enough light when you want it
Meanwhile, I don't think they have to match exactly (unless you prefer it that way) but as long as they suit the room they can work beautifully even when different styles.
Question. Does your dining room furniture match your kitchen cabinetry? The answer is likely no and so this might help guide you. Personally I would like them to complement each other and not compete, but that doesn't mean they have to be the same. Use different styles and perhaps bring them together with same colour shades of glass?