Updated February 7th, 2025

Are you thinking about updating your kitchen or building a new home? Adding pendant lighting is one of the easiest and most impactful updates for your kitchen. However, with so many styles, shapes, and sizes to choose from, it can be overwhelming. That's why I’ve created the ultimate guide to help you make the best lighting decision for your space.

Before you continue reading, download my FREE guide, The Key Elements for Elevating Your Space. It will assist you in adding finishing touches to your home and transform it into a place you’ll love.

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Why Do I Need Pendant Lights?

When designing a kitchen, it's essential to consider layers of lighting. You probably already have some type of ceiling light, whether recessed or flush mount. Under-cabinet lighting is also a great addition. But if you have an island, pendant lighting is a must. It acts as an accent piece over the island, illuminating the area for kitchen prep work and drawing attention to the island, making it a kitchen centerpiece.

In our Revere Pewter and Dreamy Kitchen, the main goal of the remodel was to create an inviting atmosphere, and the pendants helped create that vibe. The pendants' rounded shape allows them to capture and increase light, and the golden touches provide a touch of modernism and luxury.

How Many Pendant Lights and What Size?

One of the most common mistakes I see in new home builds is lights that are too small for the island. Many builders select lights that work but aren’t the best size. I always say go bigger. But how many pendants do you need? Two or three? It depends on the size of your island and your pendants. Generally, two pendants are sufficient unless your island is extra-long so that you might want three.

Here’s a quick guide to help you space your pendants:

• Use two small to medium pendants for a small island (4-5 feet).
• Use two mediums to large pendants for a medium island (6-7 feet).
• Consider using three pendants for a large island (8 feet or more).
  

What Style of Pendant Lighting Should You Use?

Pendant lights are like the jewelry of your kitchen—they make a statement. Look at the style of your kitchen and decide what kind of statement you want to make. 

Do you want a pop of color in an all-white kitchen? Or a clear glass pendant to keep the view unobstructed? A gold light fixture can add a touch of luxury to a black-and-white kitchen. One of my favorite styles is the lantern pendant. It's a classic design that works with any kitchen.

In our Snowbound and Smoky Blue Project, we added two stylish pendants that created some contrast in  this white kitchen. The black of the pendant gave it a classical touch and created a balance with the rest of the elements.

Here's a tip for you: If you have low ceilings (8 feet), consider using a lantern-style pendant light or one you can see through. Adding these touches helps keep the space feeling open and airy.

Try pendants made of natural, woven textures to add softness and warmth to your kitchen. These are especially effective if you have a higher ceiling, where a larger pendant can significantly create an impact.



Comment below with your questions about pendant lighting. I’m confident that with this information, you should feel more confident in choosing the right pendant lights for your space. Remember, pendant lights are not just functional; they’re a way to express your style and make a statement in your kitchen.

To help you get started, I’ve rounded up some of my favorite kitchen island pendant lights below.

If you still need assistance, inquire about our services now to learn more about how I can help bring your kitchen vision to life!

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