June 2016: Get tips for placing pendants

Jun 28th 2016 Staff

When it comes to selecting and hanging pendants and chandeliers, there are few rules of thumb. Here are a few helpful guidelines:

  • Center piece. If you have one fixture hanging above your table, be sure to hang it directly over the center of the surface.
  • Head space. Be sure your fixture is at least one foot narrower than the width of your table.
  • Right height. In general, leave about 34-36 inches between the bottom of your fixture to the table surface.

Many tips for lighting your home beautifully and functionally are featured in Lightingmagazine, currently available for free in ALA-member lighting showrooms and for sale on newsstands. You may also click to order a free copy of Lighting now.

Use a variety of fixtures to balance a space

In large spaces, it's a good idea, both aesthetically and functionally, to mix sizes and types of fixtures to provide ample light that is flexible to suit your needs. For example, mixing recessed cans, pendants and a mid-size chandelier makes tasks more enjoyable.

The kitchen pictured at right utilizes pendants, recessed cans and a main chandelier to create a perfect space for cooking, eating, relaxing, etc.

Find a lighting professional to help with your home design at a nearby Hortons location.

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