Hang Pendant Lights the Right Way! A Complete Guide

We’ll provide you with all the information you need to hang pendant lights like a pro.

Pendant lights are a very popular ceiling light nowadays and are used in many different rooms—things like bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchens, dining rooms, and entryways.

Defining pendant lights as the ceiling light is a limited definition; you can see hanging pendant lights from the wall. People are discovering different ways of using these light fixtures, and I loved every one of these ideas. It would be best if you use your creativity.

Pendant lights are a beautiful and versatile addition to any home. They provide the perfect lighting solution for any room, whether you’re looking for task lighting or ambient lighting. But how do you hang pendant lights correctly?

With years of experience in the building and design industry, I’ve learned a thing or two about hanging pendant lights. This guide will cover everything you need to know about hanging pendant lights, including everything from the ideal locations for them — in almost any room.

Ultimately, you’ll be confident about where to hang your pendant lights, sizes, and styles.

Why do I think this is the best guide out there? Well, I love using pendant lights in my own home and try to use these light fixtures on my projects where it makes sense.

Choosing the Right Pendant Lights for Your Room

When choosing the right pendant lights for your room, the options are nearly endless. You’ll want to take into account the size of the room, the style you’re looking for, and what type of lighting you desire.

Pendant lights come in various shapes, sizes, and styles, so you can easily find the perfect fit for your room.

First, you need to decide on the purpose of the pendant light. For example, is it the most significant light fixture in the room or task lighting?

If you are using the pendant light as an ambient light, you should choose a lamp with higher lumens, or to ensure you have enough light in the room, you can hang pendant lights in groups.

However, if you are using it as your task lighting, you should not be worried about lumens, so you can use Edison or lower-wattage bulbs to create a cozy mood.

Working with the style of the room will help you find the ideal pendant light. However, pendant lights have a more modern look than chandeliers, so if you have a more traditional decor, I would not recommend using that.

Instead, you can confidently hang pendant lights in a room in other styles such as Scandinavian, Industrial, Transitional, Contemporary, or Bohem.

You can find ideas for pendant lights in various styles below.

Best Places to Hang Pendant Lights

Once you’ve chosen the right pendant lights for your room, you’ll need to decide where to hang them. The best place to hang pendant lights is usually over a kitchen island, dining table, or bathroom.

Check out the best places to hang pendant lights room by room:

• Kitchen: over the kitchen island or the sink.
• Dining room: over the dining table or a console table.
• Bedroom: over the nightstands on both sides.
• Living room: over the coffee table or side tables.
• Bathroom: next to your bathroom mirror or over your bathtub.
• Foyer and hallways: in the middle of the ceiling.

How Should I Hang a Pendant Light?

When it comes to hanging pendant lights in different rooms, there are a few things to keep in mind. For example, you’ll want to hang the pendant light at a lower height in bedrooms. This will provide a more intimate and cozy atmosphere.

Also, as a bathroom light fixture, you’ll want to hang the pendant light safely away from water sources, such as the sink or shower.

For kitchen lighting, if you want to hang over your island, you’ll want to make sure the pendant lights are hung at the right height and distance from one another.

All this consideration keep in mind; here are the dimensions you need to consider when hanging pendant lights in different rooms.

Kitchen: To avoid blocking anyone’s vision, hang pendant lights between 30 and 36 inches (76 and 91 cm) above the counter. Next, start the first fixture around 12 to 15 inches (30 to 38 cm) from both sides of the surface underneath for placing several pendants. Then, space the other fixtures uniformly within that area, usually aiming for about 30 inches (76 cm) between the bulbs.

Foyer: Hang your pendant lights no lower than 7 feet (2.10 cm) from the floor; for 2-story entrances, try not to hang lower than the second floor.

Dining Room: Hang your pendants 30-34 inches (76 – 86 cm) above your table, adding three additional inches for each extra foot of the ceiling height. If you want to hang several pendants, use the same spacing I mentioned in the kitchen.

Living Room and Bedroom: Hang pendant lights 20 to 24 inches (51 – 61 cm) over the tops of your nightstands or side tables.

Bathrooms: Aim placing not to see the light reflections on the mirror. Hang lower or higher than your eye level to avoid eye fatigue.

Here are some creative ways of hanging pendant lights:

Installing pendant lights can be a bit tricky, so it’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Consult an electrician if you’re uncomfortable with the installation process. Also, turn off the power before you begin the installation process.

If you have peeked at some of the most beautiful homes around the internet or in real life, you’ve undoubtedly noticed that hanging pendant lights are everywhere.

Does that mean you can hang these things anywhere? Of course not! Regardless of the style, there are certain things you need to know before you hang pendant lights. Don’t worry; I’ve got your back with this comprehensive guide to help any beginner get the job done right.

When hung correctly, pendant lighting can be an excellent addition to your home. So rather than taking the easy way out and hanging your lights wherever they fit, take some time to ensure that you’re using the best style for the application you have in mind. You’ll be glad you did!