Thats an interesting point you bing up there dmlove. I never thought of that. Although our current side table lamps are those cheap IKEA frosted rectangular lights that sit right on the table and are open on top. My wife seems to read OK with them (I guess I should verify this...). The pendants I had in mind would be lightly frosted. I was thinking the Hampton Bay Architect if I can get it in Canada. Here is a link that might be useful: Hampton Bay Architect

kats- I've been thinking about your space and while I like the pull down style pendant lamp, I think it's too "lightweight" for your space. The soaring windows, strongly colored wood and copper table need some more oomph IMO. Check out the lights by Meyda, a company based in Oriskany, NY that makes a lot of their fixtures in the US (their stained glass is from China) and offers some neat stuff. The link below is to their on line catalog of rustic type lighting, and it's in Adobe, so it's a bit laborious to scroll through, but most on line retailers don't have their entire collection. We have a few of their lights in our house and are pleased with the quality of the product and the style. They also offer some interesting finishes, such as copper, that might blend nicely with your table. The link to their Craftsman series is below. They also have stained glass, contemporary and lodge type lighting on line catalogs. Good luck- sandyponder Here is a link that might be useful: Meyda Tiffany on line catalog

The minimum recommended is 2/3 of the table size. In Galilee lighting we design hand blown glass chandeliers in any size or length according to the space, if you would like to receive our catalog contact Sales@GalileeLighting.com or visit www.GalileeLighting.com Phone 305-807-8711.

Glass inserts in cabinets with lights inside cabinets can brighten the room. A patterned drum shade in fun latter/color would add some sparkle. Faceted square crystal hanging over island would reflect light. Pretty cushions on dining chairs will bring in brightness! But I really think the light fixtures work in you kitchen. Maybe lively wallpaper in the table area and new cushions in chairs would give you the big pop you are looking for?