Kitchens are now multi-functional spaces, used for socialising and entertaining as well as food preparation. This means that they need a carefully balanced lighting scheme which provides task as well as ambient light. There are many decorative kitchen lighting options available, to enhance your decor.
Kitchen pendant lights can work as part of a lighting scheme which may also include track lighting or spotlights. They typically provide ambient light, but can also provide task or accent lighting.
One of the most popular placements for kitchen pendant lights is over a sink, kitchen island, bar or counter, where they act as a decorative feature. Using a number of lights in a linear arrangement, often in a group of three, is particularly popular.
Hanging pendants to drop over a fixed piece of furniture means that they do not cause any obstruction in the flow of the room, especially in small kitchens or those with low ceilings. In large kitchens, particularly those with vaulted ceilings, pendants can be hung with an extra long drop which draws the eye to the ceiling height.
There are kitchen pendant lights to suit the many different styles of kitchen decor. In traditional and rustic farmhouse style kitchens, clear glass lanterns can complement the scheme. Victorian-style scullery kitchens with natural, wooden units are growing in popularity and these also suit vintage designs.
The classic diner style lights work well in kitchens with a quirky or retro look. These simple designs are often round domes with an enamel effect finish. They are available in a wide range of colour finishes, from standard black and white through to blue, green, purple, pink, and red, which can bring decorative interest. If units are in a bright colour, a diner light with a plain stainless steel finish might be preferred.
Industrial style pendants in metal finishes are especially popular in modern, contemporary kitchens. Finishes such as bronze, brass, copper, and pewter, as well as the more standard gold, silver or chrome, can look striking and may complement other details, such as kitchen unit door or drawer handles. If there are also light sources in the ceiling, the reflective surface of the pendant shade may help bounce light around the space.
Regardless of the style of kitchen pendant light you opt for, an LED globe is a recommended choice for the light source. LEDs provide a high quality of light, offer excellent energy efficiency and have a long lifespan minimising any maintenance. A dimmable pendant fixture and LED will allow the ambience to be adjusted depending on the time of day, and whether you are preparing food, when brighter light is needed, or relaxing or entertaining when you may prefer a cosier atmosphere.
