Lighting can really make a difference to a kitchen’s design. And one type of lighting that really amps up the style in a kitchen is pendant lights. Whether an oversized statement piece or modern-inspired lights over the kitchen island, there are plenty of options available to spice up the space.

A pendant light over the kitchen island is the jewelry of the kitchen as well as functional lighting that illuminates the space. However, there are so many kitchen island pendant ideas out there that it can be hard to decide which way to go. To narrow down the choices, here are a few guidelines to help select the style and types of pendants that suit both taste and needs.

A Quick Guide to Choosing Kitchen Pendant Lighting

Pendant lighting comes in many decorative styles and forms, so it’s a good idea to begin by considering what functional lighting is needed before considering the aesthetics or type of kitchen pendant lighting to use. The type and how much illumination needed depends on what type of lighting is already present in the kitchen.

For example, a kitchen with a lot of windows may not need much more ambient light in the daytime but may need task lighting over food prep areas. A kitchen that already has pot lights in the ceiling may be in need of a little bling to catch the eye and nothing else. Kitchen island lighting can help fill in the gaps left by other types of lighting while also being a decorative feature and make a big impression while providing soft illumination.

In some instances, pendant lighting is not the only visible hanging fixture in a kitchen, especially in open-concept spaces with the dining room close by. In these cases, the pendant lights can make a more subtle statement while a dramatic chandelier or large pendant takes the starring role. Pendants can be matched or contrasted across these spaces, depending on the demands of the design.

Spruce up an urban kitchen with these edgy, cage pendant lights. Open and airy cage, they add an industrial edge and farmhouse charm to kitchen design. They work well as singles or in pairs to make a statement in the space.

Glendale 20 Inch Cage Pendant by Hudson Valley Lighting

The Sputnik-inspired Glendale 20 Inch Cage Pendant by Hudson Valley Lighting feature the signature starburst suspended within a crisp, black, textured iron cube to create a play of stunning effects. The capsule-shaped, tungsten filament bulbs extend in sleek metal rays and serve as anchor points to the cube’s inner corners, letting the light float in a darkly outlined space.

Modern Pendant Lighting

Modern and contemporary pendant lights seamlessly blend form and function into spectacular displays that wake up the kitchen design. With clean lines and a sense of fun, these pendants don’t take themselves seriously while bringing seriously lively style to kitchen lighting.

Kate Spade New York Prescott 40 Inch 5 Light Chandelier by Visual Comfort and Co.

It’s hard to be in a bad mood when sipping coffee under the Kate Spade New York Prescott 40 Inch 5 Light Chandelier by Visual Comfort and Co. The white glass creates diffused illumination and the mobile-like arms make it perfect over a square-shaped island.

Saturn 23 Inch LED Large Pendant by ET2 Lighting

For style that is out of this world, the Saturn 23 Inch LED Large Pendant by ET2 Lighting is the ideal choice. It lives up to its name with rings of metallic sliver or bronze cast metal supporting bands of frost acrylic. The LED lights add to its other-worlding vibe with illumination that can be raised or lowered with a standard dimmer switch.

Linear Suspension Pendant Lighting

Linear suspension pendant lighting offers a sleek, minimalist design that spans several feet for a stunning effect. The long shape makes rooms look wider and because it lies along a single plane, it keeps the kitchen from becoming overdone with ceiling lights.

Ellis Harper 46 Inch 5 Light Linear Suspension Light by Sea Gull Lighting

The subtle detail on the Ellis Harper 46 Inch 5 Light Linear Suspension Light by Sea Gull Lighting allows this transitional design to easily fit into any decor. Its sleek, geometric arms and square satin etched glass shades accentuate the elegance of its streamlined profile.

E. F. Chapman Sloane Street Shop Light 54 Inch 4 Light Linear Suspension Light by Visual Comfort and Co.

A fresh twist on suspension pendant lighting, the E. F. Chapman Sloane Street Shop Light 54 Inch 4 Light Linear Suspension Light by Visual Comfort and Co. features mixes traditional elements with modern design. Industrial elements mingle with classic curled details for an elaborate feel for a unique look that will leave a lasting impression.

Pairs of Pendant Lights

If one pendant light is good, then two must be better, right? For larger spaces, a pair of pendants keep the style balanced and serves as a stylish focal point while offering an even spread of light.

Ralph Lauren Windsor 30 Inch Large Pendant by Ralph Lauren

Encased in a sturdy brass frame, the Ralph Lauren Windsor 30 Inch Large Pendant by Ralph Lauren emits a soft glow behind a pleated silk shade. Contemporary chain link suspension ushers a charmingly subtle coned silhouette overhead. The shade punches up the contrast with crisp metal trimmings and a box pleated silk covering. When illuminated, the folded layers generate a dazzling ambient display.

Mini Pendants

Small in size but mighty in style, mini pendant lights pack a powerful, artistic punch that enhances the overall atmosphere of the home. They provide the same lighting effect as a larger pendant from multiple points of light. Follow the design rule of three to make a dramatic impact over the kitchen island.

Thomas O’Brien Henry 18 Inch Mini Pendant by Visual Comfort and Co.

Featuring hand-rubbed antique brass finish and dark green glass, this trio of Thomas O’Brien Henry 18 Inch Mini Pendant by Visual Comfort and Co. brings stylish illumination to any space. Mixing warmly livable style with modern elegance, these pendants take a traditional-to-modern approach to lighting the space.

Artful Pendants

Nothing emphasizes a space quite like a pendant light that doubles as a piece of art. When paired with a neutral kitchen and subtle accents, beautiful pendant lighting brings what was once an underestimated lighting solution into the forefront.

Kindling 41 Inch 6 Light Linear Suspension Light by Eurofase Lighting

The epitome of lighting as art, the Kindling 41 Inch 6 Light Linear Suspension Light by Eurofase Lighting takes the shape of a bundle of gold-foil covered branches. These branches glamorously house the bulbs and exude a glimmering glow. This unique piece, sure to stir intrigue, adds a touch of elegance to an otherwise rustic style.