It is easy to transform your space without spending a fortune if you go about it systematically. The right kind of lighting can work wonders and totally change the ambience of any room or area. Pendant lighting not only transforms, but also creates a sense of style in your home.

What are pendant lights?

Don’t get misled due to the term “pendant”, as that usually projects an image of a small and obscure fixture in our minds. However, it is nothing but a myth as pendant lights are quite noticeable and make pronounced fashion statements. They are available in various shapes, sizes, colors, and styles, so you are really spoilt for choice.

This type of light fixture is mounted to the ceiling and hangs down on a rod or chain (could be more than one). The term originates from the fact that the light is suspended just like a pendant on a necklace. The most basic ones have a single light bulb mounted base up, inside a globe or under an open shade or open reflector. They can be used in kitchens, family rooms, bedrooms, dining rooms, and even outdoors.

Here are 5 tips for a pendant lighting buying guide:

Size and Shape

Getting the right size and shape is extremely important. Overly large lights can make the room seem too bright that you have to squint, while extremely dim ones can affect visibility, which is a strict no-no. Moreover, the lights need to match with the depth and character of the room as well.

Height

The pendant light fixtures shouldn’t be hung too high as it would show the bulb, while being too low means the view is blocked. If you are installing them in the dining space or kitchen, the rule of thumb is the height should be 30-36” above the height of the counter or table. Another rule to follow is installing the fixtures 60-66” above the floor.

Mix and Match

At times a single light isn’t sufficient, so this is your chance to experiment by mixing different types of pendants to brighten the space. But then again, mixing doesn’t mean you randomly pick out different pendant lights and hang them together. Keep aesthetics and luminescence in mind before selecting.

Get Proper Wattage

Although there is no fixed formula for calculating the wattage of light required for a room, Kichler Lighting has come up with an interesting solution. Multiply the width by the length of the room, and keep the measurement in feet. Afterwards multiply the result by 1.5 to get a general idea about the wattage.

Functionality

What are you buying the pendant lighting for? Is it for a decorative purpose or do you want it to be more functional? Or would you prefer something that has both characteristics? Pendant lights can not only improve visual appeal but also provide task, general, and area lighting.

How are pendant lights used?

As discussed above, there are numerous ways to use pendant fixtures such as general, area, and task lighting. Take a look:

General Lighting

This type of light can be mounted as central fixture in most rooms, while some more can be used in corridors or hallways. The best part is when pendant lighting is used for general purposes; these fixtures are often designed to direct the light upwards onto the ceiling. As that light spreads across the ceiling and is reflected back down, it helps us see more of the room, so visibility is excellent. It gives you a better sense of where the edges and corners are, so you can chalk out movements accordingly.

Area Lighting

This type of lighting means only a certain part of the room is lit up. It is an addition to the general lighting, but don’t do the whole job themselves. For instance, if you install some fixtures in the centre of a room, along with corner lights, the latter fall into the area lighting category.

Task Lighting

The reason why pendant fixtures are popular as task lighting elements is because it essentially brings the light down from the ceiling and puts it closer to the counter, table, chair, or wherever you need it. They are used abundantly over counters and tables, but can be installed in other areas too. For example if you have limited space on your bedside table, you can get a pendant light installed, thus giving you plenty of light for reading at night. Thus you can see how useful these lights are for work areas. Needless to say, they add to the general lighting as well.

So to put it in a nutshell, there is no need to tear down walls or rearrange furniture to make a statement. All you require is some fabulous pendant lighting and you will be set – just keep the pointers in mind before purchasing!

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