The Ultimate Guide to Hanging Pendant Lights Perfectly

by | Jul 30, 2024 | Interior Design Styles | 0 comments

pendant lights
hanging pendant lights

I will give you everything you need to hang pendant lights like an expert.

Pendant lights are currently widespread as ceiling lighting options and can be found in various areas such as bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchens, dining rooms, and entryways.

Describing pendant lights solely as ceiling lights is narrow; pendant lights can also be seen hanging from walls.

Individuals are exploring various methods of utilizing these light fixtures, and I am fond of each one of these concepts.

It is advisable to utilize your creativity.

Pendant lights make a lovely and flexible enhancement to any residence. They offer the ideal lighting solution for any space, whether you need lighting for specific tasks or overall ambiance.

However, what is the correct way to hang pendant lights?

After spending many years in the building and design field, I have gained valuable knowledge about installing pendant lights.

This guide will provide all the necessary information about installing pendant lights, covering topics such as the best placement options for various rooms.

In the end, you will feel sure about the placement, dimensions, and designs of your pendant lights.

What makes me believe that this is the top manual available? I really enjoy using pendant lights in my own house and make sure to incorporate them into my projects when appropriate.

pendant lights 1
pendant lights

After selecting the appropriate pendant lights for your room, you will have to determine the location for hanging them.

Usually, pendant lights are best hung over a kitchen island, dining table, or in a bathroom.

Explore the top spots to install pendant lights throughout each room.

Kitchen: above the island or the sink.

Dining area: above the dining table or a console table. Bedside tables located on either side of the bed in the bedroom.

Living room: on either the coffee table or side tables.

Bathroom: adjacent to your bathroom mirror or above your bathtub.

Common areas like the foyer and hallways have their lighting fixtures placed in the center of the ceiling.

pendant lights

When considering the placement of pendant lights in various rooms, there are several factors to consider.

For instance, in bedrooms, it is advisable to hang the pendant light at a lower height. This will create a closer and warmer ambiance.

Additionally, when using the pendant light in a bathroom, ensure it is securely positioned at a safe distance from water outlets like the sink or shower.

When it comes to kitchen lighting, if you plan to suspend lights above your island, it is crucial to ensure that the pendant lights are hung at the correct height and spacing.

Take note of all these points; here are the measurements to think about when installing pendant lights in various spaces.

In the kitchen, make sure to hang pendant lights 30-36 inches above the counter to prevent obstructing anyone’s view.

Then, position the initial fixture approximately 12 to 15 inches (30 to 38 cm) away from each side of the underlying surface to accommodate multiple pendants.

Next, evenly distribute the remaining fixtures within the specified area, typically spacing them around 30 inches (76 cm) apart.


Foyer: Ensure your pendant lights are positioned at a minimum height of 7 feet (2.10 cm) from the ground; for entrances with two floors, avoid hanging them lower than the second floor.


Hang your pendant lights at a height of 30-34 inches (76 – 86 cm) above your dining table, and add three more inches for every extra foot in the ceiling height.

If you plan on suspending multiple pendants, utilize the identical spacing specified for the kitchen.

Bathrooms: Avoid positioning the mirror where light reflections are visible. Hang either lower or higher than your eye level in order to prevent eye strain.