Lighting is an essential design element. It serves a highly functional role and can also transform the aesthetic of a space. There are many different types of lighting to choose from — all lending a unique and different look. Pendant lighting — a light fixture that hangs from the ceiling via a chain, rod or cord — can be the room's statement piece if selected strategically. Pendant lighting is typically hung over a kitchen island, dining table, entry hall or centre of a room. Read on to learn more about the various pendant light styles and how to incorporate lighting design throughout your space.
Types of Pendant Lights
When you’re considering pendant lighting solutions, the styles and options can feel endless. Because of various types, sizes and shapes, pendant lighting can be incredibly versatile. Additionally, pendant lighting saves space since these pieces hang from the ceiling and don’t take up surface and floor space. Whether you’re looking to create a coastal, glam, mid-century modern or transitional space, there is a pendant light design for you. The following are the most common types of pendant lights.
Drum Pendant Light
A drum pendant light resembles the shape of the classic percussion instrument and is available in different sizes and colours, depending on your design. Drum pendants, like the Arkas Pendant Ceiling Light, often come in a white linen fabric which gives off a soft glow, while adarker shade creates a more dramatic effect by blocking some of the light shining through.
Where to use drum pendant lighting:
- Use two or three in a row to illuminate the kitchen island
- Hang a statement piece above your dining table
- Illuminate a reading nook in a family room or living room
Globe Pendant Light
This type of pendant light has a round shape and is typically a mid-century modern style. Globe pendant lights are usually made of clear glass and have a sleek look that eliminates visual clutter. This transparency results in a bright glow. As demonstrated by the Pavo Minor and Major Pendant Ceiling Lights, globe pendants look great independently or together to achieve a stunning statement.
Where to use globe lighting:
- Hang above a powder room sink
- Illuminate a long hallway
- Install two or three over a kitchen island
Bowl Pendant light
Classic and functional, a bowl pendant light may be the most commonly used pendant light. The bowl may face upwards or downwards, which impacts the direction the light is cast. For example, a bowl that faces upwards provides ambient light, while a bowl that is directed down –such as the Pegasus Minor and Major Pendant Ceiling Lights – provide task lighting.
Where to use bowl lighting:
- Hang above a workspace for task lighting
- Create ambient lighting in a dining room, with a dining table as an anchor
- Install above an armchair in your living room
Exposed Bulb Pendant Light
If you’re looking for an industrial or rustic type of lighting, an exposed bulb pendant light (also known as an Edison light) like the Ursa Major Pendant Ceiling Light is a minimal design. An exposed bulb pendant is simply a light fixture and bulb — no shade required.
Where to use exposed bulb lighting:
- Create task lighting over a kitchen sink
- Illuminate an entryway
- Stagger above a dining table
Mini Pendant Light
A mini pendant light is a scaled-down version of a standard pendant light and works best in smaller spaces. You can group multiple mini pendant lights, like the Sirius Pendant Ceiling Light, to create a visual statement and create a more significant light source. When grouping mini pendant lights, select an odd number of lights to make the most visually appealing design.
Where to use mini pendant lighting:
- To create task lighting in a smaller space, like a laundry room
- Hang in a closet
- Group multiple lights over a dining table or workstation
Cage Pendant Light
A cage pendant light, also known as a lantern light, has a framed silhouette, usually in the shape of a lantern. Sometimes there are glass panes in the lantern, but the frames can also be open. Depending on the style, there can be a single light bulb in the cage, like the Arion Pendant Ceiling Light, or a multi-light candelabra, like the Brahe Pendant Ceiling Light.
Where to use cage pendant lighting:
- Hang in the foyer as a statement piece
- Use as a focal point in the dining room
- Use two oversized pendant lights over a kitchen island
Chandelier Lighting
Chandeliers may make you think of luxury and extravagance; however, the wide variety of styles and sizes can work in any space (the Dalia Ceiling Light is a more modern take on the classic chandelier). Although chandeliers can make a statement in an entryway or hallway, they can also make even the most casual dining area feel extra special or add an element of grandeur to a primary bedroom.
When you’re creating a lighting design plan for your home, understanding the different types of pendant lighting can help. Whether you’re looking to highlight your kitchen island, create task lighting above your workspace or have ambient lighting to relax in the living room, pendant lighting can provide the visual impact your space needs.
