Adding a pendant light can add an element of sophistication and class to any room. You can choose from a wide range of styles, finishes, and colors. You can also choose to hang your pendant light from the ceiling or from a hook. Pendant lights are available in a variety of materials, including wood, glass, metal, and concrete. Whether you want a traditional or contemporary design, pendant lighting is a great way to add a dramatic accent.
Pendant lights are generally installed in the middle of a room to create a general, uniform glow throughout the room. They are also used to illuminate a dining table or kitchen island. Pendant lights can also be used to light a bedroom or bath. Pendants are also popular in entryways, hallways, and outdoor porches.
Pendant lights can be hardwired above a desk or work surface. They can also be installed over a dining table or kitchen island, providing ample lighting without blocking the view of your dining companions. However, it is important to select pendants that do not interfere with the other objects in the room. You will want to keep the pendants no closer than 6 inches from the ceiling to avoid hitting heads. Ideally, the pendants should be suspended from the ceiling or hook at least 30 inches above the table or island.
You should also consider the length of the table or island when deciding on the length of the pendant. For a table with a four-foot-by-six-foot area, the pendant should be no closer than eight inches from the ceiling. Pendants for a six-foot-by-six-foot kitchen island should be no closer than thirty inches to the table. If the table is a round shape, the pendant should be no closer than fourteen inches to the table. If the table is rectangular, the pendant should be no closer than eighteen inches to the table.
Pendants are generally designed to be mounted at eye level to provide a flattering light. Pendants with mosaic-tile shades should be mounted near the eye level. If the light is being used for general lighting, a clear glass pendant will allow the light to spread more evenly.
Pendants are available in a wide range of materials, including glass, metal, and plastic. Glass is great for well-lit areas because it naturally diffuses light in all directions. Plastic is a cheaper material, but it is prone to discoloration and wear over time.
Pendants are also available with retractable cords, which can be easily adjusted to suit various tasks. Pendants that have retractable cords are typically more expensive, but they can provide more flexibility.
Pendants can also be installed over kitchen counters, bars, or dining tables. Pendant lights should be suspended 30 inches to 36 inches above the table or island. Pendants that hang from kitchen counters should be no closer than thirty inches to the counter.
Pendant lighting can be installed almost anywhere there is an outlet. You will also need to know how high the ceiling is in order to determine the appropriate height of the light fixture. If your ceiling is less than seven feet tall, you may want to install a recessed light fixture instead of a pendant.