Hanging Lights: Types & Uses

Exposed light fixtures like hanging lights can be valuable tools in decorating a room, lending a festive sparkle and allowing you to express your sense of style. There are many types of hanging lights, and each is designed for a slightly different purpose. Read about the different styles of hanging lights to learn which is best suited for your next project!

Pendants: In lighting, the word "pendant" refers to any lighting fixture mounted on a chain, stem, cable, or wire that hangs down into a space. While a chandelier is technically a pendant, "pendant" is normally used to describe the following types of hanging lights:       

• Bowl Pendants: Use a bowl-shaped diffuser
  
• Bell Pendants: Bell-shaped glass
  
• Drum Pendants: Use a fabric or hardback shade diffuser
  
• Mini Pendants: Small, slender hanging lights often used in multiples
  
• Ceiling Pendants: Hanging lights with unique shapes/ constructions

Pendants are useful as hanging lights because of their ability to either direct light down onto a surface (like a kitchen table or island), or provide general lighting.

Chandeliers: Chandeliers are decorative hanging lights that often include multiple "arms" or stems (although some people think of pendants as chandeliers). Chandeliers set a more formal tone in a room, and are popular in dining rooms and kitchens. Types of chandeliers include:

• Indoor Chandeliers
  
• Mini Chandeliers: Petite-sized chandeliers used for smaller spaces.
  
• Crystal Chandeliers: Highly formal hanging lights made with cut glass.

Entry/ Foyer Lights: Entry lights are pendants that typically have clear glass casing or an "open" design, perfect for illuminating home entrances. These hanging lights often have a nostalgic "lantern" design, with an inner candelabra shining through.

Outdoor Hanging Lights: These hanging lights are perfect for use under porch awnings, because they provide an all-around spread of light. Many outdoor hanging lights are available in coordinating outdoor fixtures (like wall lights or post lights) to help you achieve a "layered" look outdoors.

When selecting a hanging light, be sure to know the legth of the chain or rods supplied with the fixture; this way, you can install it at a height that provides the most pleasing light for your home. For more tips on choosing a hanging fixture, see "How to Choose a Chandelier."