Design Tips:
- Pendants are usually hung anywhere from 32" to 40" above the
counter top or any surface area. If you plan to use a pendant light
over a desk or in an office setting, you can lower the stem or cord of
the pendant light for better light output and functionality. Just make
sure that it is not installed directly above your head.
- If you're going to hang it over your pool table, choose the trestle
style with a pendant on each end. In the kitchen, a row of mini
pendants on a track are attractive, and won't hit you in the head. Over
the table, choose a chandelier made of average pendants on a circular
fixture, or a full shade size pendant.
- If you're installing a track, it may be one that allows curves and
bends to put the pendant light where you want it most. You can snap the
lights into the track in whichever way you find most decorative, and
most illuminating. A single pendant light may require the installation
of a medallion or canopy before you hang the pendant.
The Pendant Light is a single or multi light fixture that hangs
from the ceiling. It is usually smaller than a chandelier and has
multiple application options including and definitely not limited to
living rooms, entry ways, kitchens, out door seating areas. It provides
either ambient or task lighting with style. The Pendant Light has become
an essential requirement in interior design because it makes a visual
statement that is easily understood.
Styles
From mini to inverted to traditional to contemporary, pendant lights
come in many shapes, sizes and styles. They are made from the finest
glass and strongest metals integrating classic craftsmanship and modern
electrical components. They are available in many styles including: mini,
modern and contemporary, transitional, traditional, Tiffany, and
inverted. Each light comes in a combination of finishes, including
brushed and polished chrome, steel or brass, bronze, antique brass or
rattan and pendants available in every color or color combination
imaginable. A new trend is the combination of agile reflective metals,
crystals, glass and the occasional fabric shade. There are also various
sizes which include the option to change the overall height of the
pendant.
Applications
Found in coffeehouses, restaurants, showrooms, homes, and
professional settings, the pendant light brightens any environment. It
can be soft ambient lighting casting an elegant glow or luxurious
task lighting brightening a living space. It is known for its sleek
and stylish designs which can be applied anywhere. Pendant lights are
suspended from the ceiling above seating areas, work areas, kitchen
counters and islands, and foyers. They are clean and simple, do not
require the use of wall cords and do not occupy floor or counter space.
Depending upon location and voltage, pendant lights can provides direct
illumination or soft ambient lighting. As well, they can be mounted in
almost any location such as sloped or high ceilings.
The History of the Pendant Light
Throughout history, the pendant light has always been a unique and
beautiful symbol of artistry and wealth. Dating as far back as the
early 15th century, it has continued to evolve. The first pendant light
was fashioned of clay, terracotta or metal, each illuminated by
candles. They captivated the eyes and brightened the world. Eventually
layers of cut glass and metal, including iron, brass and bronze, were
fashioned to become the modern pendant. The use of glass was a pivotal
step in the history of the pendant because it changed the direction
light could be casted. In 1879, the first stained glass pendant was
invented by Louis Comfort Tiffany. His studios in New York made stained
glass lamp shades by soldering together hundreds of stained glass
pieces so smoothly that the glass and solder were indistinguishably
fused together. His creative idea became a prize-selling item and known
as the coveted
Tiffany Pendant Light.
Pendant lights are luxury items that once were only found in the homes
of the wealthy and noble. Their design and features were used on cruise
ships such as the Queen Mary and the Titanic. Their grand illuminating
effects create a luxurious environment and enrich any space. The
pendant light's immaculate beauty is artistry in light and becomes an
expensive piece of jewelry for the home.
Pictured to the left are two of the T-Trak Playa Pendant Lights in a
bathroom setting. The fixtures embody natural beauty and modern
artistry while personifying functionality without sacrificing
aesthetics. The pendant shades are made of natural shells and have
compact florescent lamping option. The Playa pendant light is a
testament of modernity in the lighting industry while paying tribute to
the beauty of natural elements. It is an example of a unique
representation of what a pendant light can be and how it can contribute
to the overall design of a living space.
The pendant light is no longer limited to just being a source of light
but rather it is now an expression of style, design, status and
concept. A light shines and a pendant not only shines but expresses.
Latest Blog Post
Pendant lighting is light that hangs from overhead. Pendants are popular as kitchen lights, bathroom lights and can even be found hanging above nightstands in master bedrooms. Whether made of blown glass, porcelain or another material, lighting fixtures in general can be a work of art in itself. We found some pendant lights that are just that in fact:
Porcelain Pendant Light
This porcelain pendant, in black and white, almost looks like leather. The seams of this lighting fixture, and the cut outs, really lend an elegant look to a simple silhouette. The white of this fixture would look fa...(Read More)
 
If you’re like most people, you’ve probably picked up a light bulb at your local retailer and noticed it lists a “coloring,” “color temperature,” “CRI” or “color rendering” on it. So what exactly does this mean? Coloring of a light can have a big impact, not only on your light fixtures, but also on the rest of the decor on your home. Here’s the low down on light coloring for light bulbs.
What Do All These Terms Mean, Anyway?
“Coloring,” “color temperature,” or “color rendering” all refer to the different concepts with the light when the light bulb is installed in a light fixture and swi...(Read More)
 
Many Americans are coming back into a state where they can afford to start spending money on other items, such as home updates. Light fixtures are a great option for updating a space while still being wary and cautious of overspending. Fortunately, lighting trends for 2012 feature a look that will be worth the money and last for several years, so you can enjoy without feeling guilty over any money you’ve spent.
Light Fixtures with Slim Lines
For 2012, look for light fixtures that feature clean, slim lines. Bases that consist of a single center rod on table lamps and floor lamps are a gre...(Read More)