Hilary Farr's Light Fixture Design Shows That Two Is Better Than One

A grand chandelier hanging above the dining room table is a high-end design straight out of a magazine. The classic look is luxurious and well-admired, but HGTV star Hilary Farr proves that the singular ceiling fixture isn't the only way to achieve gorgeous lighting in the dining room. On the interior designer's namesake show, "Tough Love with Hilary Farr," she executed a fabulous remodel of a vintage 1700s barn-house. One standout element in the design was the two beaded chandeliers hanging over the dining table that allowed for stylish, dynamic, and practical lighting.

Before the barn was blessed with Farr's expertise, the dining room table was in the kitchen and had one chandelier hanging above it. The renovation created a statement piece and helped make the table a place where people want to sit and enjoy themselves. Implementing this design in your dining room, even if it is with DIY glass pendant lights, can be a worthwhile transformation for your home

Hilary Farr hung two identical pendant lights over the long rectangular table instead of one grand chandelier. Despite opting for two smaller fixtures instead of one larger piece, the beaded chandeliers are still a focal point. They are an eye-catching statement that is also proportional to the space. The two lights help ground the dining area, defining the room and creating a balanced and attractive source of light. The fixtures Farr chose also add depth to the space, placing a pair of vases with greenery just beneath the two pendants. Farr's design emphasizes the contrast between the round pendant lights and the rectangular table.

While super stylish, the design also serves a functional purpose. The two chandeliers that are spaced equidistant evenly distribute light across the entire table. One ceiling light would have to be uber-bright to compensate and that would create more of a clinical feel than a cozy dining room area. Farr also used soft, warm-light bulbs which foster a relaxing environment. Overall, the design is stunning, and there are ways you can pull it off to make a statement in your dining room.

Hilary Farr's double light fixture design complements long (at least 6 feet) rectangle and oval tables best. Generally, you should stick to one featured light for small squared and circular tables; although, you can still pull off the design with small hanging lights proportionate to the compact furniture. Langley Street's Bead Pendant Light Fixture from Wayfair is similar to the vintage-styled ones Farr used on her HGTV show. However, you can mimic this look with any of your favorite chandeliers. Just ensure that there is an equal distance between each fixture and the table ends when mounting the pendant lights. This will give everything a clean, uniform look. Further, if you ever swap out your table for something longer or shorter, ensure the lights are centered.

Farr used this two-is-better-than-one design over her client's dining room table, but you can also use the look elsewhere. It can be the optimal lighting over a kitchen island, hallway bench, or patio lounge. It also doesn't have to be overhead lighting. Matching wall sconces, table lamps, and floor lamps can pay homage to Farr's design. Just remember, symmetry and proper spacing is key.