Something catch your eye?
Save it to Favorites
Create a Mood Board
See it all together
View FavoritesAre you missing items in your cart?
to see items you may have added using another computer or device.
View CartHow to Hang Pendant Lighting
Pendant lights are hanging fixtures that can range in size from small globes to large drum shades. Follow our guide to learn how to choose and adjust pendant lighting in your home.
Shop All Pendant Lights
hanging a pendant light
Even if you like a good DIY project, it can be tricky to install lighting yourself. Depending on size, shape, and weight, a variety of tools and anchors could be required. If you want to learn how to install lighting, especially how to hang pendant lighting, we recommend contacting a professional.
choosing the right pendant lights for your space
Different lights play different functional roles. When choosing a pendant light, think about the purpose of the lighting. Will the pendant lights be used for task lighting, accent lighting, or ambient lighting? Consider the intensity of the light and the size of the shade to ensure that you get the right amount of light for the intended purpose. (Tip: we rarely install a pendant light without a dimmer switch–being able to adjust the brightness depending on the time of day and mood is key.)
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. Also try to see what the lamp looks like illuminated. Some new layered lamps have sheer outer fabric and diffusers that create a soft haze of ambient light within.
see it in your room
Watch our pendant lights come to life in your room using our augmented reality feature. On your phone, find 'View in My Room' on the product page and tap for a 3D view.
finding the right height for your pendant light
The ideal height for your pendant light depends on the proportions of the space where it will reside, and what it will be used for. Typically, pendant lights are hung about 30-36 inches above the surface they are illuminating. However, you may want to hang them higher or lower depending on the specific needs of the space. You’ll also want to consider proportion. Pendant lights should be proportionate to the size of the room and the height of the ceiling. Read on to learn about how high you should hang pendant lights depending on the room.
over a dining table
A general rule of thumb is to hang your pendant lights 30 inches above the dining table. With an 8-foot ceiling you’ll want to add three inches for each additional foot. We recommend hanging a pair or three to five pendant lights (odd numbers are pleasing to the eye) along the length of the table. Stagger the heights for interest– three on one level, two slightly higher. Alternatively, you could try one linear pendant with multiple lights.
over a kitchen island
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 wouldn’t provide enought light for kitchen tasks. For kitchen islands around 72 inches long, consider making a statement with two bold pendant lights (or three if the pendants are tiny).
over the living room
When it comes to pendant lighting in the living room, a good starting point is to hang them about 5’-7’ feet above the seating arrangement. If you find that you use your living room for reading or working, you’ll want to hang it lower to provide more direct light. If the light is being used for more ambient or accent lighting, hang it higher to create a softer, more diffused light.
adjusting the height of new fixtures
Adjusting the height of a pendant light varies based on the material it is made out of. Some pendant lights have fabric cords that can be pulled through the canopy or mounting plate to your desired length. Using a wire stripping tool, only the excess inside the canopy should be cut (if needed) to fit inside the ceiling.
For pendant lights hung by a chain
Simply unhook the chain and remove or add links to make it your desired length.
For pendant lights with a cord and
a set screw
Use a screwdriver to loosen the set screw and adjust the length of the cord as desired.
For pendant lights with a pole kit
Twist together the rods included with the fixture to reach your desired length.
Different pendant lights may have unique features or require different tools for adjustment. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions or consult a professional if you are unsure about how to adjust a particular lighting fixture.
by: Crate & Barrel Editor
|6 min read
expert answers to your questions on how to hang lighting
The ideal height for your pendant light depends on the space where it will reside, and what it will be used for. Typically, pendant lights are hung about 30-36 inches above the surface they are illuminating. However, you may want to hang them higher or lower depending on the specific needs of the space.
Pendant lights can be placed in the living room, above a kitchen island, in the dining room, above bedside tables or even above bathroom vanities, just to name a few options.
