Hanging Lights: Types and Uses
Exposed light fixtures like hanging lights can be valuable tools in decorating a room, lending a festive sparkle and allowing you to express your sense of style. There are many types of hanging lights and each is designed for a slightly different purpose. Read about the different styles of hanging lights to learn which is best suited for your next project!
Pendants: In lighting, the word "pendant" refers to any lighting fixture mounted on a chain, stem, cable or wire that hangs down into a space. While a chandelier is technically a pendant, "pendant" is normally used to describe the following types of hanging lamps:
Bowl Pendants: Uses a bowl-shaped diffuser
Bell Pendants: Has bell-shaped glass
Drum Pendants: Uses a fabric or hardback shade diffuser
Mini Pendants: Small, slender hanging lights that are often used in multiples
Linear Pendants: Often used over a kitchen island, these feature multiple light sources on a single canopy
Pendants are useful as hanging lights because of their ability to either direct light down onto a surface, like a kitchen table or island, or provide general lighting.
Chandeliers: Chandeliers are decorative hanging lights that often include multiple "arms" or stems, although some people also think of pendants as chandeliers. Chandeliers often set a more formal tone in a room and are popular in dining rooms and kitchens. However, these days there are also contemporary and modern styles of chandeliers, plus they can be used in any room of the house! (Yes, even the bathroom.) A few types of chandeliers include:
- Petite-sized mini chandeliers used for smaller spaces
- Drum shade chandeliers that use a fabric or hardback shade diffuser
- Highly formal hanging lights made with cut glass
Entry/Foyer Lights: Entry lights are pendants that typically have clear glass casing or an open design, so they are perfect for illuminating home entrances. These hanging lights often have a nostalgic lantern design with an inner candelabra shining through, though other looks are also available!
Outdoor Hanging Lights: These hanging lights are perfect for use under porch awnings because they provide an all-around spread of light. Many outdoor hanging lights are available in coordinating outdoor fixtures, like wall lights or post lights, to help you achieve a layered look outdoors.
When selecting a hanging light, be sure to know the legth of the chain or rods supplied with the fixture! This way, you can install it at a height that provides the most pleasing light for your home. Learn more about the right hanging height at How to Choose the Right Size Fixture. Contact us, talk with us on social media or call us at 1-866-688-3562 for more advice! Sign up for our email newsletter today and score an additional discount!
Emma Harger-Young - Lights Online