No space is finished until it’s been outfitted with lighting, and as far as fixtures go, pendant lights are some of the most versatile around. Best pendant lights can brighten up your kitchen, illuminate your nightstand, and add ambiance to your bedroom. “When choosing a chandelier [or pendant], pay attention to the other design elements in the immediate vicinity,” says Bryan Johnson, CEO of Shades of Light. “For instance, an island chandelier that is a brighter, yellower brass may wind up clashing with stainless steel appliances, whereas a softer aged brass may be just fine.”
Along with coordinating finishes in your space, you also want to consider the lighting’s purpose—task or ambient lighting—and size in mind. From modern to farmhouse, we researched the best pendant lights for every aesthetic and budget, considering their size, finish, brightness, and ease of installation.
Best for Bathroom: AllModern Alex 1 – Light Single Globe Pendant
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AllModern’s Alex 1 – Light Single Globe Pendant is a classic globe light that would look good anywhere in your home, although its sleek profile makes it a particularly great pick for your bathroom. The light is crafted from metal and is suitable for damp environments, meaning it won’t be damaged by contact with water.
Since the light’s globe is relatively opaque, it should disperse ambient light throughout your space. It’s dimmable, however, so you can choose how much lighting you want in the space. Hang two in your bathroom to frame your vanity, or simply hang one in the corner of your space. With a light this versatile, it’s pretty hard to go wrong.
Best for Bedrooms: Wade Logan® Hanceville 1 – Light Single Schoolhouse Pendant
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Whether you’re tight on space or want to forego a traditional table lamp, Wade Logan’s Hanceville 1 – Light Single Schoolhouse Pendant will make for a stylish addition to any space. The light, which is offered in either a brass or black finish, is a plug-in design that makes it easy to install.
The lamp features a glass shade that works with a variety of design aesthetics, from industrial to transitional and beyond. Plus, it’s designed with an on/off switch that’s easy to use, especially once you’re comfortable in bed.
Best Plug-in: Schoolhouse Apartment Plug-In Pendant
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For a light that’s easy to install, consider plug-in options like Schoolhouse’s Apartment Plug-In Pendant. The light will plug right into any outlet and would work well in a bedroom, at-home office, kitchen, or living room.
The light is offered in two finishes, black and khaki, and is made with a twisted cord design that’ll add extra style to your space. Note both the matching swinger hooks and 2.25-inch fitter will have to be purchased separately—there’s a matching option, but the design also leaves room to choose any shade style of your choosing.
Best Farmhouse: Pottery Barn Farmhouse Glass Pole Pendant
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Pottery Barn’s Farmhouse Glass Pole Pendant offers a minimal take on the classic dome light, making it a versatile yet farmhouse-friendly pick. The light, which is offered in five hardware finishes, features a clear glass shade that’ll increase the amount of light in your space.
The hardwired light includes five rod options, making the light suitable for three different ceiling heights. It’s damp UL listed, meaning it’s suitable for bedrooms, living rooms, and kitchens as well as bathrooms.
Best Modern: Tomons Pendant Light
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If your design style skews toward modern design, you’ll appreciate the Tomons Pendant Light. The lamp’s shade is crafted from black metal and its interior is a warm metallic gold—a sleek yet versatile combination that’ll stun in any home.
The budget-friendly lamp is offered in two colors—black and white. Whether you’re designing a living room, bedroom, or at-home office, the versatile piece will add a warm touch of style to your space. Each light comes with one light bulb, so it’ll be ready to use.
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