How to Hang Lighting
Benefits of Pendant Lighting
A stylish pendant light can be a focal point in
a room and can add sophistication, an artsy element, architectural shape or
punch of color. The light it gives off almost seems like a bonus.
Pendant lights play different functional roles.
A pair of hanging pendant lights over a kitchen counter is right on task, while
a pendant illuminating a foyer is more about spreading the light in an ambient
way. Check out resources like design magazines and websites for ideas about how
to use pendants in different rooms.
Hanging Pendant Lights
First of all, do consult a professional. This
is especially important in older buildings, where wiring may have unforeseen
issues. Also, the weight of the lamp (and mounting plates) must be carefully
considered, so there’s adequate hardware to secure to the ceiling (like hanging
a painting).
Do your homework. With all the new light bulbs,
transitioning from incandescent to LEDs, figure how just how much light you
need. Make sure you follow a manufacturer’s recommended wattages—especially the
upper limits. Overamping can result in overheating, possibly shattering glass
shades, for example.
Where to hang pendant lights? That all depends
on your needs, as well as the look and style you’re going for.
Over a dining table
Even conventional chandeliers have morphed into
tubular modern forms in interesting compositions. And large scale drum shapes
add flair. Hang a pair or three to five (odd numbers are pleasing to the eye)
along the length of the table. Stagger the heights for interest, say three on
one level, two slightly higher. General guidelines are 30 inches above (with an
8-foot ceiling, adding three inches for each additional foot). The outer edge
of the lamp should be at least 12 inches from the outer edge of the table
(especially with large ones, so your head doesn’t bump into it).
Over a kitchen island.
Clear, ribbed or colored glass as well as
metals all can make a statement, especially in multiples. Consider the
proportions of your island. Like placement over a dining table, the pieces
should neither overpower nor underwhelm. A single four-inch pendant would seem
too small and not put out enough light. Hanging a pair of pendants with a
4-foot drop might measure around 42 inches from the surface of a 39-inch tall
counter that spans around 72 inches.
Over a cocktail table.
A single lamp in a simple shape can be
dramatic, hanging low over the center of a cocktail table. In a living room
with an 11 foot ceiling, a lamp with a 75-inch drop might hang just 28 inches
above a low, 16 ¾ inch tall cocktail table. For more impact, try hanging a
cluster of medium size pendants in staggered heights.
Over a sofa.
Hang a pendant light to one side of a sofa,
brought down a little lower, particularly effective in a room with a tall
ceiling.
Over a buffet console.
Hanging a pair of pendant lights over a buffet
adds ambience. A grouping held to one side works well here, too.
How to Hang Lighting
Final Considerations Before making a purchase, make sure you have
measurements of tables and sofas so that you can properly scale pieces. A photo
of your room is helpful, so you can imagine how different shapes and materials
will play, like open weaves, cages, wire lamps, antiqued metal or on-trend
mixed metals. And try to see what the lamp looks like illuminated. Some new
layered lamps have sheer outer fabric and diffuses that create a soft haze of
ambient light within.
