Homeowners looking to add style and functionality to their interiors invariably get drawn to pendant lights. It happens because these lights are available in different styles adding personality to the space. But, how to choose the perfect pendant lights for your home? In this article, we will learn about the different things that you must consider when choosing pendant lights. Keeping these tips in mind your selection will never let you down. So without much ado, let’s get the ball rolling.
What Exactly are Pendant Lights?
Pendant lights are stand-alone light fixtures that hang from the ceiling. As a result, these are also known as suspenders or drop lights. Typically, the light source, with a single bulb, is attached to one end of a metal rod, chain or cord and hangs free in the air. These lights are often used in pairs, and typically, they hang in a straight line. The purpose of pendant lights is to provide illumination to the area directly below them. Therefore, you will usually find them adorning the ceiling over the dining table and kitchen island.
Choosing Pendant Lights for Your Home
Choosing the perfect pendant light for your home is no rocket science. All it needs is some attention to aesthetics and logical thinking. So when planning to buy new ones, picture the room you want to style and look at things critically.
Placement and Spacing
See where you want to place the lights and whether there is anything you wish to highlight. For example, pendant lights for the dining room should be right over the dining table and placed in its centre. Similarly, pendant lights for the kitchen should also be placed thoughtfully. If it's the counters you wish to illuminate, they should be installed directly above them. In the same manner, a pendant light for the island should hang above it. This way, you will be able to illuminate the area immediately below and also draw attention to it. The next important consideration is spacing. Pendant lights are used in pairs, and hence, the spacing between each should be the same. It is not necessary to always put them in a straight line. You can also use cluster pendant lights and give a high-low effect. The key is to have them evenly spaced.
Style
The theme of the space is the main deciding factor in which style of light to opt for. In a modern space, designer pendant lights will fit right in. While in a vintage-themed room, you can either go with vintage pendant lighting or brass gold pendant lights. A farmhouse-style kitchen will get more character with some edgy rustic pendant lights. Essentially, the style of the light should be in sync with the room’s theme or complement it.
A Match to Your Personality
Your rooms speak of who you are, and so should the lights. So, let your personality show through your selection of lights. If you like colour, go for coloured pendant lights or add coloured bulbs to the monochrome lights. In globe pendant lights, warm white and white lights are a classic combination. But coloured hues look good and make them a focal point. If you like soft and earthy tones, rattan pendant lights will suit you better. Important is to let people see who you are through your choices. Don’t hide yourself, just ensure the choices make your home pop and still feel balanced.
Pendant Lights for the Bathroom
The bathroom is one place where the moisture level is higher than the rest of the house. As such, the light fixtures that you intend to use here should be resistant to corrosion. For that matter, it is recommended that lights with a minimum IP44 rating be used in wet areas. IP65 lights work best for shower areas. Pendant lights for the bathroom should always meet these specifications.
Styles of Pendant Lights
As mentioned in the very beginning, pendant lights come in different styles. Let's have a look at some popular ones. Globe pendant lights are those hanging lights that have a round, sphere-like shade. These are classy to look at and fit well with every kind of decor. Rustic pendant lights are raw-looking and have a hand-crafted appeal. The metal choices in these range from wrought iron to antique copper. With a down-to-earth appeal are the rattan pendant lights. These are made of strips of bamboo woven into intricate yet beautiful patterns. Next in line are the brass gold pendant lights. As is clear from their name, these lights have an antique brass and gold finish. They have a rich look and give an elegant feel wherever they are used. Moving on, we come to designer pendant lights, which give an opulent feel. Their exquisite designs lend a modern aesthetic appeal. If lights in a straight line are not to your liking, you will be fascinated by cluster pendant lights. These lights hang together in a bunch in a delicate and graceful manner, lending a touch of elegance and sophistication to the room.
Expert Tip
Before buying pendant lights, talk to an electrician and take their expert advice. In fact, they can also guide you on other facets, like the height and material of the lights and the need for hard wiring. Once you have bought the lights, an electrician will also be needed to install them. Consequently, it is better to involve them in the process right from the beginning. Their years of experience in the field will not lead you astray.
Closing Thoughts
Pendant lights can transform the look and appeal of your home dramatically. These central light fixtures are practical with great functionality. They are the focal points. Hence, always align their placement with the aesthetics of the home and the area's specific lighting needs. Additionally, be careful of their height, as you wouldn’t want them to overwhelm the space. Thoughtfully choosing the pendant light designs and positioning them with careful consideration will make your home look beautiful and vibrant.
Now that you are inspired, visit Comet Lighting to check out the different styles of pendant lights. In our exhaustive catalogue, you will find the perfect pendant lights for your home.
