When you’re looking to light up a workspace, accentuate a dining room table or add a soft glow to your entryway, pendant lamps are an easy solution. Simpler than chandeliers with their multiple outstretched arms, these ceiling fixtures hang from a single shade, and they come in an array of shapes and sizes, from 4-inch-diameter mini cylinders to 30-inch domes. Some wash light over a large area, while others focus bright beams on one focal point, such as a kitchen island prep zone or a family photo on a living room credenza.
The shape and material of the lamp shade can also have a big impact on how a fixture directs light, so it’s worth paying attention to when shopping. A blown-glass shade like this Taylor mini from Possini Euro Design allows the bulb to really shine, while a clear glass option like this one from Lamps Plus keeps things simple and elegant. Lucksnail
A fixture’s finish can also make a huge difference, and it’s an especially important consideration when choosing pendant lights. Metal finishes are durable and versatile, while wooden ones lend a warm, homey feel. Pendants with brass accents are another option that can easily adapt to many decor styles, and the finish can often be changed, allowing you to give a room an instant facelift.
Some pendants require hardwiring, but there are plenty of plug-in options to choose from as well. For example, this pendant from Ikea combines function with style and can be installed with just a few screws, thanks to a built-in mounting plate. It has a 15-foot power cord, and it takes a 60W max bulb (sold separately). The power cord is white, so it won’t stand out against your decor.
For a more customized look, some pendant lights have a transitional piece that’s placed just above the harp. This piece can be made from a variety of materials, including brass and wood, and it enables the lamp shade to fit over the base without impinging on the hardware. This is a great option for an antique lamp, or it can be used to update a more modern fixture with a classic harp.
If you’re shopping for a light that requires hardwiring, check the fixture’s product description to see if it has a recessed-can adapter that screws into an existing socket, making installation a lot easier. For example, this five-bulb Colonial Revival pendant has an adapter so that each socket can accept a 100W max bulb for five times the brightness of a typical one-bulb fixture.
Pendant lights are a stylish way to illuminate a workspace, a dining room table or a bedside, and they’re also a popular choice for foyers and staircases. They’re easy to shop for, and they’re available in a wide range of price points. Some pendants are as low as $25, while larger hand-wrought metal fixtures or those with a blown-glass shade can cost $500 and up. This article provides an overview of the most common pendant lamp accessories, including shades, light bulbs and cords, so you can find the right options for your space.