Everything you need to know about Pendant Lights!
Everything you need to know about Pendant Lights!
August 26, 2024

So, you’re thinking about buying a pendant light? Great choice! Pendant lights are like home jewelry, but you can't wear them.


They are stylish, functional, and can change a room's atmosphere with just a switch. But before you dive headfirst into the world of pendant lighting, there are a few things you should know. After all, the last thing you want is to end up with a light that’s more “oops” than “wow.”


In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know before buying a pendant light. From the different types and styles to sizing and placement tips, we’ve got you covered.

What Are Pendant Lights?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s start with the basics. What exactly are pendant lights? Think of them as the Beyoncé of interior lighting—versatile, fabulous, and guaranteed to make a statement. Pendant lights hang from the ceiling by a rod, cord, or chain, and they’re perfect for adding a dash of style and light to any room.


Pendant lights can create a cosy atmosphere in your kitchen. They can also brighten up your dining area. Additionally, they can add a touch of elegance to your living room. From lounge room lighting to kitchen island lighting, there’s a pendant light out there for every space. But with so many choices out there, it can be tough to know where to start. That’s where blog guide comes in!



The Different Types of Pendant Lights

Pendant lights are not one-size-fits-all. In fact, there’s a whole world of options out there, each with its own unique flair.


Here’s a breakdown of the different types of pendant lights you’ll come across:

Single Pendants:

The classic choice. Single pendant lights are great for creating a focal point in a room. They’re simple, elegant, and get the job done.

Cluster Pendants:

If one pendant light is good, then a bunch of them must be great, right? Cluster pendants feature multiple lights grouped together, perfect for making a statement. Think of them as the “boy band” of lighting—except you won’t get tired of them in a few years.

Multi-Light Pendants:

Similar to clusters, but with a more structured design. Multi-light pendants are great for adding an even spread of light across a room, whether it’s entry hall lighting or dining room ambiance.

Drum Pendants:

These feature a cylindrical shade, often made of fabric, metal, or glass. They’re great for adding a soft, diffused light to a space—think of them as mood lighting, but without the candles.

Different Styles of Pendant Lights

Now that you’ve got a handle on the types of pendant lights, it’s time to think about style. Pendant lights come in a variety of styles, so you’re sure to find something that fits your home’s aesthetic.

Here are a few popular styles to consider:

Modern: Sleek, minimalist, and often featuring clean lines and geometric shapes. If your home is a testament to the phrase “less is more,” modern lighting might be just what you need.

Industrial: Love the look of exposed brick, metal, and wood? Industrial pendant lights have that raw, edgy vibe that’s perfect for lofts and modern spaces. Just don’t try to install one with a hammer and nails—leave that to the professionals!

Traditional: If you’re a fan of classic, timeless designs, traditional pendant lights are the way to go. These often feature ornate details and elegant finishes that add a touch of sophistication to any room.



Rustic: For those who want a touch of nature in their home. Rustic pendant lights often feature natural materials like wood and metal, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.


Contemporary: A mix of modern and traditional elements, contemporary pendant lights are all about versatility. They blend seamlessly into almost any decor style, making them a safe bet if you’re unsure what to choose.

Sizing

For pendant lights, size does matter—especially for ensuring your light fits the room. The right size pendant light can make a huge difference in how a room feels, so it’s important to get it right.


Here are some general tips for choosing the correct size pendant light for different rooms:


Kitchen: In the kitchen, pendant lights are often used to illuminate countertops or islands. For a standard-sized island, a good rule of thumb is to choose pendants that are around 25-30 cm in diameter. If you have a larger island, you can go bigger or opt for multiple pendants—perfect for that kitchen island lighting setup.


Dining Room: The dining room needs a pendant light that sets the mood. Choose one that is sufficiently large to stand out, but not overly expansive for the space. A good guideline is to choose a pendant light that’s about 30-50 cm smaller than the width of your dining table.


Living Room: In the living room, pendant lights are often used as accent lighting. Choose a size that complements the other lighting in the room without overpowering it. If your living room is more “grand ballroom” than “cosy nook,” feel free to go bigger—but don’t forget to duck!

Placement

Now that you’ve got the sizing down, let’s discuss placement. Where you hang your pendant light can have a significant impact on both the look and functionality of the room.


Here are some tips for placing pendant lights in different rooms:


Kitchen: When hanging pendant lights over a kitchen island or countertop, a good height is about 75-90 cm above the surface. This provides ample lighting for tasks while keeping the lights out of the way.


Dining Room: In the dining room, your pendant light should hang about 75-90 cm above the table. This creates a cosy, intimate atmosphere without obstructing anyone’s view—or their ability to pass the salt.


Living Room: In the living room, pendant lights are often used as accent lighting. Hang them about 2 metres above the floor, or higher if you have tall ceilings. Just make sure they’re not in the way of any door swings or tall guests!



There you have it—everything you need to know before purchasing a pendant light! Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned pro, choosing the right pendant light comes down to understanding the different types, styles, sizes, and placements that work best for your space.


Whether you're looking for a bedroom pendant light or thinking about a ceiling chandelier, this blog has you covered.


Ready to find the perfect pendant light for your home? Don’t leave your space in the dark—check out our range of stylish and functional pendant lights today!