Uses in the Kitchen for Pendants

How to decorate a kitchen to be stylish and functional

First, a quick caveat: Pendants are rarely used as the primary source of light in a kitchen. You can do that, of course, but it will take a lot of forethought and installation savvy. Instead, these are typically positioned over an island, a home bar, a stove, or a frequently used counter-top.

There are several advantages to applying this style to your home. The first is that it's beautiful. The shade design and lower height of these fixtures (or group of mini pendants) provide a warmer, more concentrated light that's really lovely if you're accustomed to the sterile omnipresence of a typical kitchen fixture.

What's more, when using these correctly, are likely to be eye-catchingly attractive, which is something that can't be said for recessed or flush-mounted fixtures. The styles range from traditional, featuring ornate Victorian scrolls and glass drops, and variegated tiffany glass, to a sleek contemporary look with chrome finishes or funky space age design. Whether your space is retro or rustic there are pendants that can put more of your home's character into your kitchen decor.

(The island light is the style most commonly used in kitchens. These typically feature one large shade or two, three, or more smaller shades that cast a broader radius. Because the island is such a high-use spot, making sure you can see in this area is critical.)

Another advantage of using these in your kitchen is that they illuminate areas where you need it, not where you don't. If you cook or entertain regularly, you'll appreciate having a targeted source that's easy on the eyes.