Super Domes: Pendant Lights Hit It Big

There’s an elephant in the room in many homes these days — and we aren’t talking about the memory of ill-advised behavior. This metaphorical pachyderm comes in the form of oversize dome lights, fixtures that can measure several feet in diameter and are looming large over many a dining room table. The possible reasons for their popularity include everything from current architectural styles to the changing functions of a dining room — but one thing is for certain: They are having a moment in the spotlight.

Lighting designer Randall Whitehead attributes the expanding waistline of dome lights to the need for large-scale fixtures in open-plan layouts and high-ceilinged spaces. “They do a great job of defining a space; they can make a little island in a large area,” he says. “They work well for high-ceilinged rooms, where they can bring things to human scale.”


In terms of scale, Whitehead says he prefers domes that are bigger. “These lights can be compared to jewelry — they are a little like earrings in a room,” he says. “For me, I prefer a large Cher scale to a dainty Princess Diana size.”

An example of the former is this custom fixture, designed by SB Architects and Erin Martin.


Whitehead says there are two basic kind of domes: opaque (such as the one in this interior by Ed Kopel) and translucent. “An opaque dome is going to cast light downward and would be good for task lighting,” he says.


Some opaque domes have a gold interior, and that makes for a more flattering light. “They cast a golden glow,” says Whitehead. “They also warm up the cool-hued illumination of LED lights.”


Translucent dome lights are more decorative and attention getting. “We are like moths to a flame,” says Whitehead. “Where we see a glowing light, that’s where we will gravitate.”


Interior designer and Houzz contributor Cristin Priest chose an opaque dome light for this breakfast nook, because it is also used as a homework and craft center.

“The new thing in kitchen design is the demise of the kitchen desk,” she says. “With wireless technology, people are setting up their offices anywhere. Because these are good task lights, they could make it so a dining table could also be used as a desk.”

See more about this breakfast nook makeover


Priest notes that although the size of the domes makes them scene stealers, their soothing form makes them timeless and versatile. “They are more understated than some over-the-top or frilly fixtures,” she says. “And they are kind of like the little black dresses of design, in that they can be dressed up or down to go with anything.”


In this room, by DrewettWorks architects, interior designer Luis Ortega chose a stainless steel dome light to define the dining area. “Dome lights look great in modern architecture, where they can add a feminine element to a square room,” says Whitehead. “The thing to remember is that a dome light by itself is not effective. The key is to layer light from different sources to make a cohesive environment.”

Browse photos of room designs featuring pendant lights

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