I seem to recall seeing a fluorescent lamp that would work with a dimmer. Can't remember if it was the dimmer or the lamp that was optimized to allow dimming. Is there such a thing? Looking to use some fluorescent lamps that aren't too bright, (25 watt incandescent equivalent ) or fluorescent lamps that are capable of being dimmed. I thought about using an adapter and a candelabra based lamp, but that would move the lamp down below the fixture centerline. Any suggestions?

My guess is your talking about compact florescents of CFL's. Dimmable CFL's do exist, but not all are dimmable. LED lamps are another possibility.