Table of contents
Introduction
Selecting the perfect pendant light for your home is a balance of art and functionality. A well-chosen pendant light not only brightens a space but also serves as a centrepiece that enhances the room’s design. At Habitus, we feature an iconic selection of lighting designs from renowned Scandinavian brands like Louis Poulsen, Muuto, and Audo Copenhagen. These Scandinavian brands combine timeless aesthetics with innovative functionality. This guide will walk you through choosing the right pendant lighting for your space, with examples from each brand.
Why Pendant Lighting Matters
Pendant lights are more than just sources of illumination; they define zones, create ambiance, and add character to your home. Whether hanging over a dining table, a kitchen island, or in an entryway, the right pendant can transform a space. Options like the PH 5 from Louis Poulsen, Strand Pendant from Muuto, or the Resonant Pendant by Audo Copenhagen demonstrate how pendant lights can be both functional and stylish.
Pendant lights also provide an opportunity to integrate high-quality design into everyday spaces. With so many styles, sizes, and materials available, they can enhance a minimalist, contemporary, or even a rustic aesthetic. Brands like Louis Poulsen, Muuto, and Audo Copenhagen specialize in offering versatile solutions that seamlessly blend with a variety of interiors, ensuring a cohesive and elevated look for your home.
Steps to Choosing the Right Pendant Light
Step 1: Determine the Purpose of Your Pendant Light
The purpose of your pendant dictates its style, size, and placement. Consider the following:
Ambient Lighting: Provides general illumination for a space.
Task Lighting: Focuses light for specific activities like cooking or reading.
Accent Lighting: Highlights architectural features or decor.
For example:
The PH Snowball by Louis Poulsen adds an elegant touch as ambient or accent lighting.
The Strand Pendant by Muuto, with its soft diffused glow, is ideal for creating a cozy atmosphere in living rooms.
The Cast Pendant by Audo Copenhagen, with its geometric design, is perfect for highlighting minimalistic interiors.
Step 2: Choose the Right Size
Selecting the appropriate size for your pendant is crucial. A fixture that’s too large can overwhelm a space, while one that’s too small may feel insignificant. Follow these guidelines:
Over Dining Tables: The pendant should be about half to two-thirds the width of the table. For example, the PH 5 Pendant from Louis Poulsen is an excellent choice for medium to large dining tables.
Over Kitchen Islands: Use multiple smaller pendants like the Toldbod Pendant by Louis Poulsen or the Tubulaire Rail Pendant by Audo Copenhagen, or a larger statement piece like Muuto’s Strand Pendant.
In Entryways: Larger pendants, such as the PH 6½-6 by Louis Poulsen, create a dramatic first impression.
Step 3: Select the Perfect Height
The height at which you hang your pendant light impacts both its functionality and aesthetics. General rules include:
Over Dining Tables: Hang the pendant 28-34 inches above the tabletop to provide adequate lighting without obstructing views.
Over Kitchen Islands: Space pendants evenly, about 30-36 inches apart, and hang them 30-40 inches above the countertop.
In Living Areas or Entryways: Ensure the bottom of the pendant is at least 7 feet from the floor for clear movement beneath, unless you are planning to use the pendant as an accent or for task lighting.
Step 4: Consider the Kelvin Temperature
Kelvin temperature influences the ambiance of your space. For residential settings:
2700K (Warm White): Ideal for cozy, inviting atmospheres in living and dining rooms. Louis Poulsen’s PH 5 Pendant and Muuto’s Ambit Pendant are great examples.
3000K (Soft White): Slightly cooler, suitable for kitchens and bathrooms. Louis Poulsen's AJ Royal offers both style and the right temperature for task-oriented spaces.
Step 5: Match the Style to Your Space
Each brand offers designs that cater to various styles:
Modern Minimalist: Louis Poulsen's PH 2/1 or Muuto’s Grain Pendant are sleek and understated.
Mid-Century Modern: Louis Poulsen’s PH Snowball or PH 5 are timeless masterpieces.
Playful and Contemporary: The Cirque Pendant by Louis Poulsen or the E27 Pendant by Muuto adds whimsy and charm to any room.
Step 6: Explore Dimmable Options
Dimmable pendant lights offer flexibility, allowing you to adjust brightness to suit different occasions. Many fixtures, including Louis Poulsen’s Enigma Pendant, Muuto’s Strand Pendant, and Audo Copenhagen’s TR Bulb Pendant, are compatible with dimmers. This feature is perfect for creating a relaxing atmosphere or enhancing focus.
Step 7: Layer Lighting for a Cohesive Look
Pendant lights work best when paired with other lighting types to create a balanced scheme. Combine a Louis Poulsen pendant with Muuto’s Beam Lamp or Audo Copenhagen’s Carrie Table Lamp to ensure both functional and aesthetic lighting in your space. Layering light sources ensures versatility and harmony.
Lighting Suggestions from Our Collection
Louis Poulsen
- PH 5 Pendant: Classic and glare-free, perfect for dining areas.
- Toldbod Pendant: Minimalist design, ideal for kitchen islands.
- Cirque Pendant: Vibrant and playful for casual spaces.
Muuto
Strand Pendant: Soft diffused light, great for cozy living spaces.
Ambit Pendant: Simple yet versatile, fits any room.
Fluid Pendant: Inspired by the soft shape of a resting water droplet, it offers warm, diffused lighting that works beautifully in dining rooms or bedrooms.
Audo Copenhagen
Resonant Pendant: With its harmonious blend of form and function, it creates a sophisticated atmosphere in any room.
TR Bulb Pendant: A versatile and minimalist option, ideal for modern and task-oriented spaces.
Bank Pendant: Featuring a classic yet contemporary design, it adds a soft, ambient glow to dining rooms or entryways.
Incorporating Pendant Lighting into Your Space
Beyond aesthetics and functionality, pendant lights can help define your home's personality. For instance, clustering pendants like Muuto’s Grain Pendant in varied colours can create a playful dining area. Alternatively, placing a single statement piece like Louis Poulsen's PH Snowball in a minimalist living room can provide both focus and ambiance. Mixing and matching designs from Louis Poulsen, Muuto, and Audo Copenhagen allows for personalized combinations that reflect your unique style.
Consider experimenting with different finishes and materials to complement your furniture and decor. Matte finishes on Muuto’s pendants provide a modern touch, while polished metals from Louis Poulsen lend a more classic feel. Thoughtfully integrating pendants into your design scheme enhances both the functionality and style of your space.
The right pendant light can elevate your home’s design while providing essential functionality. Explore our collections from Louis Poulsen , Muuto , and Audo Copenhagen to find the perfect pendant for your space.
For personalized recommendations, feel free to contact us here.
Beyond aesthetics and functionality, pendant lights can help define your home's personality.
Summary
Pendant lighting is both functional and decorative, defining zones and enhancing ambiance.
Choose pendants based on their purpose: ambient, task, or accent lighting.
Ensure the pendant size complements your space, avoiding overpowering or undersized fixtures.
Hang pendants at the appropriate height for the intended use.
Match Kelvin temperature to the room’s ambiance for optimal lighting.
Select styles from Louis Poulsen, Muuto, and Audo Copenhagen to fit modern, mid-century, or playful interiors.
Explore dimmable options for flexibility in brightness and mood.
Layer lighting with pendants, table lamps, and floor lamps for a cohesive design.
Discover standout designs like the PH 5 Pendant, Fluid Pendant, and Bank Pendant to elevate your space.
FAQs
How do I choose the right size pendant light for my space?
Select a pendant that is proportional to the area it will illuminate. For dining tables, aim for a pendant width that is about half to two-thirds the table's width. For kitchen islands, consider using multiple smaller pendants or a single larger one.
What is the ideal height to hang a pendant light?
The standard height is 28-34 inches above a dining table or 30-40 inches above a kitchen countertop. For entryways or living areas, ensure the bottom of the pendant is at least 7 feet from the floor.
Can I use pendant lights in a small room?
es, smaller pendants like Muuto’s Fluid Pendant or Audo Copenhagen’s TR Bulb Pendant are perfect for compact spaces, providing functional lighting without overwhelming the area.
Are dimmable pendant lights worth it?
Absolutely! Dimmable lights offer versatility, allowing you to adjust the brightness for different occasions, from task-oriented activities to cozy, ambient settings.
Which styles work best for modern interiors?
Sleek and minimalist designs like the TR Bulb Pendant by Audo Copenhagen or Muuto’s Ambit Pendant are great choices for modern interiors. They blend seamlessly with contemporary aesthetics.
Can I mix and match pendant lights in the same room?
Yes, mixing pendants can add visual interest. Use a cohesive color palette or similar materials to maintain harmony while exploring different shapes and designs.
Author
Rob H
Rob, one of the owners of Habitus alongside his partner Jenna, is passionate about great design and its ability to transform how we live. With a deep appreciation for furniture, architecture, and the small details that make a space feel complete, Rob finds inspiration in thoughtful craftsmanship and timeless aesthetics.
