In the past 10 years since I began renovating homes everything has changed. It used to be that I would go to Home Depot or Lowe’s and buy a bathroom vanity light for $29.99, hang it above a mirror and call it good. No longer. As online retailers have exploded in every area online lighting options are now spectacular. At the same time, there are sooooo many that choices can be overwhelming.

Here are some tips to help you wade through all of the options and narrow down your selections to create a space with style.

Kitchen Pendants

This area is often a focal point of the space. It used to be that kitchen pendants were usually hung in groups of 3 and were on the smaller side of the size scale. The rules have changed dramatically and now almost anything can be placed over the kitchen island as long as scale and finish.

My recent choices have included mid-sized and oversized pendants as well as a large chandelier over a rather large island. For me scale is the primary factor in deciding on the size of the lights. Another consideration is the location of the lighting. Is it going to be in a place where if someone is in the kitchen is their line of sight affected by the light if it is solid? If so then I will choose an open or glass fixture.

Trends include adding sconces or library lights over the sink or over open shelving. Special note here… if you are wanting these items make sure to let the electricians know so they can add them prior to any drywall work. It is not impossible to add them later but it will be easier (i.e. less expensive) to do it earlier in the project rather than later.

Dining Room

Here the determining factor will be the placement of the table. If for some reason you are unsure of placement or purchasing a new table either wait to install the light until your table in place by having the electricians coil the wires in the ceiling without disturbing the drywall or be prepared that you may need to swag a light with a hood and chain to center it over the table.

Here is an opportunity to look around your space and make choices that coordinate. If you have chosen multiple pendants for the kitchen island then you may want to choose one chandelier for the dining space.

Conversely, if you have chosen one large light over the island in the kitchen then you may want to create some interest in the dining room by selecting lights that be installed in groups of two or three for linear interest. When I install dining lights I typically go 30-33 inches from the table top to the bottom of the light. As is true with any fixture, have someone hold it in place to determine where you like it prior to cutting any wires. When in doubt have the installer leave some extra wire for future adjustments.

Where to Find the Cool (Affordable) Light Fixtures

Watch this video to get my best shopping tips for finding unique, high-end looking light fixtures … aka your home’s jewelry!

Shop

To help you get started in the light fixture hunt, I’ve curated a few of my fave light fixtures that are online NOW. These are affiliate links at which I could make a small commission at no charge to you. Please read my disclaimer here and privacy policy here.

Kitchen Island Light Ideas

Kitchen Pendant Light Ideas

I’ve curated my favorite kitchen light fixtures for you right here. Just click to purchase. These are my affiliate links, so thank you!

Dining Room Light Ideas

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