A quick kitchen switch that'll make your space feel brand new.
Every item on this page was hand-picked by a House Beautiful editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.
When designing the kitchen of your dreams, there's no doubt you're thinking about all the latest smart appliances and putting together a cozy breakfast nook, but you can't forget about the ever-important lighting details. If you want to go above and beyond the standard bulbs in the ceiling, our August/September 2022 Kitchen Issue proves a pendant light likely over a kitchen island is your best bet for making a big style statement.
On top of that, pendants tend to illuminate a spot where you don't have direct lighting. It's your chance to bring brightness closer to you as the lights come with an adjustable chain, mounting strap, or rod allowing you to choose exactly how high or low it hangs.
Just make sure it's not obstructing any views or hitting heads. "The typical height that we hang pendants above an island is anywhere between 36 and 42 inches, but in this kitchen, the height of the lights is really all about maintaining the view," interior designer Shea McGee points out in the first episode of her Netflix show Dream Home Makeover. In case you want to learn more about how she and her husband Syd work together, catch our Better Half Instagram series here featuring the power couple! Then, scroll on for the best, editor-approved pendant lights that have all been recently featured in our magazine.
Pros
100% price match- Quick shipping
Cons
- Only four finishes available
21.5-Inch Diameter | 120" Chain Length | Free Shipping
First up is midcentury modern at its finest. There's a sleek elegance with this medium-sized pendant you'll fall for immediately. To make things even better, the site has a price match guarantee to ensure you get the best deal.
Pros
- Comes in a variety of colors and finishes
Cons
- Pricing upon request
12.5" Diameter | 17 Pounds | Light Polish With Lint-Free Cloth Only
Our next pick may require a bigger investment, but the Italian pendant is a unique two-in-one piece that you can buy in striking hues including bright orange, dusty pink, mint green, and more.
Pros
- Dimmable with compatible LED dimmers
- Arrives with 12 feet of cuttable black cloth cord
Cons
- Certain finishes require additional fee
22.5" x 26.4" | 22.5-Inch Diameter
Go for gold with a dimmable pendant boasting a sturdy, wired design. In addition, each purchase comes with a black, cuttable 12-foot cord you'll be able to adjust with ease.
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Pros
- Comes in a variety of colors and finishes
- Lightweight
Cons
- Takes up to three weeks to ship
2.5" x 1.7" | Made-to-Order | 1 Pound
Looking for something more affordable that won't compromise quality? Enter: Dutton Brown's made-to-order fixtures from Minneapolis. It's even compatible with dimmable bulbs and can be purchased with a longer rod for those who want lower lighting.
Pros
- Able to create your own design
- Simple and sleek
Cons
- May overwhelm a small space
25.5" x 7.5" | Brass Accents | Customizable
Here's a pendant ready to take center stage in your home. It's big lighting that's not over the top and what's better, you can design and customize it however you want. Feel free to grab our rec as is or put your own spin to it!
Best Brim
Hudson Valley Lighting Brim LED Light
Pros
- Multiple sizes to choose from
- One-year warranty
Cons
- Dimmer not included
Small and Large Sizes | Steel | Free Shipping
You can count on these strong, low-profile cables to deliver graceful kitchen lighting. It was designed by Kelly Behun this year and it has a warm charm perfect for any kitchen.
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Pros
- Rattan accents
- Can also be used inside
Cons
- Extra fee for protection plan
14" x 18.5" | 14-Inch Diameter | Matte Black | Free Shipping
Casual, laid-back lighting with rattan detailing is exactly what your outdoor space needs. The handcrafted rattan shade is weather resistant and the bright, single bulb is the inviting glow your entertaining area is missing.
Pros
- Textured black with polished chrome accents
- Hand welded
Cons
- Bulbs not included
12.25-Inch Diameter | Steel | Free Shipping
Are you all about the farmhouse vibe? This pendant light is the finishing touch to bring the entire look together. The wires are also extra durable and have been hand welded.
Pros
- Dimmable
- Carved from solid oak
Cons
- Takes up to three weeks to ship
3.7" x 44.9" | Oak, Brass, Polycarbonate
On the hunt for lighting unlike any other? Try a one-of-a-kind flute shape with light coming from the tube, which can be suspended in the air or mounted to your kitchen ceiling.
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Pros
- Textured glass
- Two finishes available
Cons
- Professional installation recommended for an extra fee
13-Inch Diameter | 12' Cord | 18 Pounds | Metal, Clear Hyalophane Glass
Speaking of lighting you won't find anywhere else, consider a rounded pendant available in a brass or nickel finish. It's a show-stopping light that'll leave you with the most glamorous kitchen.
Pros
- Effortless, multi-colored design
Cons
- $95 shipping charge
- Delivery can take several weeks
36.25-Inch Diameter | 6' Chain | Fast and Easy Returns
Finally, for readers lucky enough to have an oversized kitchen, snag large lighting to match the space. It's a pendant that's around three feet wide and arrives with a six-foot cuttable chain.
Are pendant lights out of style?
Interior designers have always used pendant lights as a stylish lighting solution in kitchens, dining rooms, entryways, bathrooms, and more. Nowadays, they continue to grow in popularity thanks to their customizability and functionality.
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Should I put a pendant light over the kitchen sink?
Yes, go for it! As we mentioned, the McGees incorporated pendants in a jaw-dropping kitchen redesign in the Dream Home Makeover's first episode titled "A Dream Kitchen Come True" so take cues from the design stars and their clients. The only thing you should keep an eye out for is making sure the lights don't hang at an awkward height or block any views.
Why trust us?
House Beautiful's Director of Editorial Special Projects Carisha Swanson and Senior Shopping Editor Isis Briones rounded up the best pendant lights to show that a quick lighting change can go a long way when upgrading your kitchen.
