STYLE
Pendants are ceiling-mounted lights that provide overhead illumination and come in a range of shapes, styles, and sizes. Chandeliers, on the other hand, offer a more dramatic and elegant option for statement lighting. Many feature shades or drums made from materials like glass, metal, or fabric to help filter and direct light. Since pendants and chandeliers tend to be a bold focal point, it’s important to choose a style that complements your decor. For example, glass or chrome give off a sleek, modern vibe, while woven shades suit boho or coastal aesthetics. Finding your perfect style is half the battle!
SIZE
For task lighting, opt for a pendant that’s open at the top, like one with a classic drum shade, to avoid harsh light directly underneath. Translucent glass shades help minimize glare, while opaque shades offer a softer, more diffused glow. To prevent overly bright spots, consider pendants with light-diffusing shades or use semi-opaque bulbs. If you need overall lighting, space pendants evenly over a work area. As a rule of thumb, the larger the area you want to illuminate, the bigger the pendant should be. A small fixture works well over a sink or desk, but you’ll need a larger pendant (or a series of them) for bigger spaces like an island. For a dining table, the light should be about half to two-thirds the width of the table. In most cases if you measure the diameter of the pendant, and then double it, that's approximately how much space you should leave between the next fixture.
HANGING
When hanging your fixture remember to also consider sight lines and adjust the chain/rod length as needed. Pendants should hang over work surfaces at a height that doesn't block views across the kitchen. Chandeliers should be positioned about 30 to 36 inches above the table surface. You want enough clearance to get in and out of your seat without bonking your head, but you also want the chandelier to be a star in the show. It's recommended to hang pendants 28 to 34 inches above a surface (like a table or countertop). You can also aim for a height that is about 6 inches above the shortest person who will use the space.
