Pendant Lights

What are the most important aspects to consider when purchasing a pendant light?

• Type of luminaire: it is crucial to pick one that fulfils your specific needs of illumination. Some aspects to consider would be the material (iron, glass, fabric), or the light’s measurements to compliment the area without overwhelming it, giving enough light.
• Light power: the measure in watts (W), is a key factor that determines how much light is emitted. More power does not necessarily mean better illumination. It is important to consider the room’s dimensions and the height at which the light will be hanged to sort out the best power.
• Temperature/Light colour: it is measured in Kelvin (K). From 2700K to 3000K, it is a warm and cosy illumination; from 3100K to 4500K, whiter and energizing light; and from 4600K to 6500K, even whiter. Some models offer the possibility of adjusting the colour temperature from warm to cold.
• Light intensity adjustment: the perfect functionality to adjust the light level according to the specific needs or the time of the day. It is crucial to look for lights with built-in dimmer or compatible with switches and dimmable bulbs.
• Type of illumination: we can differentiate between direct and indirect lighting since every type has different usages and effects. Direct light is ideal for activities such as reading or studying, for it is headed downwards, while indirect light is distributed evenly and softly across the space, to create a comfortable and relaxing environment.
• Smart illumination: this functionality is perfect for connecting the lights with each other, allowing them for being controlled from a smartphone or through voice assistants.

What pendant lights are trend?

• Built-in LED illumination: more popular every time, thanks to their energetic efficiency and longer lifespan. Their flexibility in design makes them innovative and thin, ideal to save space.
• Minimalist and modern: characterised for wide lines and discreet elegance. They are centred in simplicity and functionality, making use of neutral tones and geometrical shapes.
• Smart: they can be controlled not only by remote control, but also by mobile apps or voice assistants. They allow for customising multiple settings, such as colour temperature and brightness, and even programming schedules for them to turn on and off.
• Organic and natural designs: materials such as wood, bamboo or rattan does not only contribute to create a relaxing and warm environment, but also harmonise with a wider green trend. On the other hand, organic shapes, based on nature, offer a visual connection with the natural world.
• Vintage and industrial designs: they imitate styles from the 60s and the 70s, being especially popular those that incorporate materials with brass, copper and other old-looking irons finishes. These finishes add a nostalgic touch.
• Acoustic lights: they lower background noise, creating a quieter ambient. They are ideal for spaces such as offices, libraries or restaurants, where acoustic comfort is primary.

What is the optimal height for a pendant light?

• Above dining tables: it is recommended to hang them to a height of between 70cm and 85 cm over the table’s surface. This ensures that the illumination will be effective without obstructing the view. In the case of larger lights, they can be hanged at an even higher height to avoid them to visually dominate the space or to interfere with the line of sight.
• Above kitchen isles or bars: it is recommended, just like in the previous case, to keep a 70 cm to 85 cm distance.
• In living rooms: we must make sure that it does not obstruct the line of sight, not the path. It is recommended to hang the light at least 2 meters away from the ground to avoid getting hit, allowing going underneath. In case of placing it above a coffee table, we advise to keep it 75 cm to 80 cm away from the table surface.
• In foyers and hallways: in spaces with high ceilings, it can be hanged a bit higher. It is important for its size to be proportional to space and, at the same time, to not obstruct the path nor to be annoying.
• In bedrooms: it is crucial that it does not end up directly above the bed or passing areas. A growing trend is the use of pendant lights above bedside tables, for what we recommend keeping the light at least 2 meters away from the ground.

Is every pendant light height adjustable?

Not every pendant light is height adjustable since this depends on each one’s specific design. Some come with a cable system that can be extended or shortened during the installation, other come with chains to which we can add or remove links. Also, the use of tighteners plays a significant role in regulating the height since they allow adjustments even after the installation, without having to call a professional. In case of doubt, you can ask to our technical staff.

In LightingSpain we help you find the hanging luminaire that better fits your decoration and style, and we counsel you about how to install it and how to do the maintenance depending on its materials and design.