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How Many Pendants Over a Kitchen Island? A Practical Guide
One of the most common kitchen lighting questions is also one of the most misunderstood: how many pendant lights should you hang over a kitchen island?
Too few, and the island feels under-lit and empty. Too many, and the space feels cluttered and crowded. The right number is not about symmetry alone — it’s about proportion, spacing, and how light interacts with the size of the island.
The Simple Rule Designers Use
A practical rule used by kitchen designers is:
One pendant for every 60–75cm (24–30 inches) of island length.
This immediately gives you a starting point before you even consider style.
Pendant Quantity by Island Length
If your pendants are large statement pieces, reduce the number. If they are small or slimline, you may increase it slightly.
Spacing Between Pendants
Spacing is just as important as quantity.
This keeps the lighting visually balanced across the island.
Pendant Size Matters
The diameter of the pendant changes how many you should use:
Correct Hanging Height
Pendants should hang:
75–90 cm above the island surface
This keeps sightlines clear while providing effective task lighting.
When to Break the Rules
Design is not always mathematical. You might use:
These work when the scale of the fixtures replaces the need for quantity.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
The Goal: Visual Rhythm
Good pendant placement creates rhythm across the island. The lights should feel evenly weighted, guiding the eye along the work surface without distraction.
When done correctly, pendants don’t just light the island — they define it.
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