The pendant light is the king of interior decorative lighting. Suspended from the ceiling, it is the first element that catches the eye when entering a room. It sets the tone: spectacular or discreet, industrial or poetic, minimalist or exuberant.
But the pendant light is also the most difficult light fixture to choose. Height, size, style, material, quantity — mistakes are easy and costly. This guide gives you all the rules to get it right.
The different types of pendant lights
The single pendant light
One cable, one light fixture. This is the classic format, ideal above a round table or as a central focal point. The single pendant can be imposing (large size) or discreet (small globe) depending on the desired effect.
The cluster pendant
Several pendant lights grouped together at different heights. The effect is spectacular and contemporary. Particularly suited to positioning above rectangular tables, kitchen islands or stairwells.
The linear bar pendant
Several light fixtures mounted on a horizontal bar. An ideal format for long tables and counters. The advantage: a single electrical supply point to illuminate the entire length.
The XXL pendant light
A single large-format light fixture (60 cm in diameter and above) that visually commands the space. The sculptural trend of 2026 is driving this category. Ideal in entrance halls with high ceilings and spacious living rooms.
The contemporary chandelier
A modernised version of the classic chandelier, with arms, globes or multiple elements. The contemporary chandelier retains the majestic feel of its ancestor while adopting clean lines and modern materials.
The ideal height: essential rules
This is question number one. And the answer varies depending on the location:
Above a dining table
The universal rule: 70 to 80 cm between the bottom of the pendant and the tabletop. Below 70 cm, the pendant gets in the way of diners and creates lighting that is too intense. Above 80 cm, it loses its sense of intimacy and its focalising role.
For a rectangular table of 180 cm, choose a pendant of at least 90 cm in length (or an alignment of 2-3 pendants) so the light covers the whole surface.
Above a kitchen island
The same rules as for the table (70-80 cm above the worktop), but with additional attention: the pendant must not get in the way of food preparation. Opt for compact pendants arranged in a line rather than a wide model.
In a corridor or entrance hall
A minimum of 210 cm between the floor and the lowest point of the pendant so people can walk beneath without ducking. If the ceiling is low (< 240 cm), choose a flush-mount or a very flat pendant.
In a stairwell
This is the ideal spot for a spectacular pendant. Measure the full height of the stairwell and position the pendant so its centre is visible from the main landing. The bottom of the pendant must remain 210 cm above the floor of the lowest level.
| Location | Recommended height | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Dining table | 70-80 cm above the table | Universal rule |
| Kitchen island | 70-80 cm above the worktop | Compact models |
| Entrance / corridor | 210 cm minimum from the floor | Clear passage |
| Stairwell | 210 cm above the lowest floor | Visible from the landing |
| Living room (no table) | 200-220 cm from the floor | Depending on ceiling height |
Single vs cluster: how to choose
The choice between a single pendant and a cluster depends on the shape of the surface to be lit:
- Round or square table — a single centred pendant is the natural choice. Pendant diameter = about 50-75% of the table's diameter.
- Rectangular table — 2 or 3 pendants in a line, or a linear bar pendant. Regular spacing along the entire length.
- Kitchen island — 2 to 4 pendants in a line, spaced 60 to 80 cm apart.
- Living room corner — a single pendant or an asymmetric cluster for a more artistic effect.
The cluster at staggered heights is the strong trend of 2026. But beware: it requires a ceiling of at least 260 cm to be truly successful. Below that, the effect is stifling.
Materials guide
Glass
Clear, smoked, frosted or opaline. Glass offers a luminous and elegant finish. Frosted glass diffuses light evenly (no glare), while clear glass creates reflections and plays of light.
Rattan and wicker
The star of natural materials. Rattan pendants filter light and create graphic shadow patterns on walls and ceiling. A guaranteed spectacular effect, especially in large formats.
Metal
Matt black, brushed brass, chrome, copper — metal offers the widest variety of finishes. It directs light precisely (downwards for closed pendants) and brings a structured, design-led feel.
Fabric
Linen, cotton, silk. Fabric shades diffuse an extremely soft and warm light. Ideal for bedrooms and living rooms. Drawback: fabric collects dust and can yellow over time.
Choosing your pendant light by room
Dining room
This is the room where the pendant is most important. It focuses attention on the table and creates a bubble of intimacy for meals. Choose a model that lights the tabletop well without dazzling diners.
Kitchen
Above the island or worktop, the pendant is first and foremost functional. It must provide enough lumens (300-500 lux at the worktop) while fitting into the kitchen's style.
Bedroom
The bedroom pendant replaces the classic flush-mount. Ideally with a dimmer for an ambience suited to sleep. Models in fabric or frosted glass are the best suited.
Entrance hall
This is the first impression. A beautiful pendant in the entrance hall immediately sets the tone for your home. If the ceiling is high, be bold with a spectacular model.
Our selection of pendant lights
Design pendant lights for every space and every style.
Banora — The natural one
A pendant light in natural materials that filters light to create poetic plays of shadow. Perfect above the dining table for a warm and organic ambience.
- Natural materials
- Plays of shadow
- Dining room
- Adjustable cable
- 2-year warranty
Cilora — The contemporary one
A pendant light with a clean contemporary design. Well-diffused light to illuminate the whole table without glare. The perfect choice for a modern, refined interior.
- Contemporary
- Diffuse light
- Adjustable cable
- LED compatible
- 2-year warranty
Segora — The spectacular one
A pendant light with a bold design that serves as a statement piece in your home. Perfect in a tall entrance hall or above a large kitchen island.
- Bold design
- Statement piece
- Adjustable cable
- LED compatible
- 2-year warranty
Frequently asked questions about pendant lights
What size pendant for my table?
A simple rule: the pendant's diameter should be between 50% and 75% of the table's width. For a round table of 120 cm, choose a pendant of 60 to 90 cm. For a rectangular table, combine several pendants to cover at least 2/3 of the length.
Can a pendant light be installed without an existing ceiling light?
If you have a ceiling hook with electrical supply, yes. Otherwise, you will need to create a supply point at the ceiling — electrician's work, no getting round it. Alternative: pendants with extra-long cable and offset hook that allow suspension from an off-centre point.
How do I adjust the height of a pendant light?
Most pendants come with an adjustable cable. The excess is tucked into the ceiling rose. If the cable is too short, extensions are available from manufacturers. If the cable is a chain, simply remove a few links.
Is a single pendant enough to light a room?
Rarely. The pendant mainly lights the area directly below it. For complete lighting, combine it with complementary sources: table lamps, wall lights, floor lamps. That's the principle of layered lighting.
The pendant light, centrepiece of your home
Well chosen and well placed, a pendant light transforms a room. It creates a visual focal point, directs attention to the important moments (meals, gatherings) and gives character to any space. Don't hesitate to invest in this element — it is the light fixture with the greatest visual impact in an interior.
See the full Lumora collection →
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