Lighting
If you prefer a less linear look, consider a bevy of smaller lights in a more random configuration. It’s difficult to achieve randomness with even numbers, so go odd. Try five – or even seven – similar pendants in different sizes and set at varying heights, hung precisely to illuminate the whole surface. As it’s now quite smart to loop long cords over ceiling hooks, the bonus is height adjustability.
7. Ambience booster: twinkle lights White string lights are not just for the holidays – draped across a window frame or over a mirror, they can bring that extra little bit of sparkle that makes an event memorable. 8. DIY idea: basketry If you’re having trouble finding just the right light fixture, consider creating your own. The one shown here was made from a woven garden cloche, but nearly any lightweight basket can be transformed into a hanging light with a simple cord kit. Just be sure that no material touches the lightbulb, to avoid a fire hazard. If you’re not sure, hire a pro to put it together for you.
Moroccan metal orb This type of metal pendant light features punched pin-dot holes that create patterns on the walls when illuminated at night. This style of light can give off less light than a typical fixture, so you should plan to supplement with a few small lamps around the room – or just light plenty of candles.
Filament chandelier Filament bulbs have risen in popularity with good reason –they exude charm and cast a beautifully warm glow. Single filament bulbs are typically available only in 40 to 60 watts, but using a chandelier with many exposed filament bulbs is a wonderful way to get all the charm and the light you need.
Mix and match with other decorative elements If you have large-scale artworks hung in living or dining rooms in which there are also pendants, ensure that the two elements don’t compete for visual appreciation. Choose pendants in a colour that will complement, or is already featured in, the artwork. For example, the pendants above would have also worked if they were in a blue, green or purple.
Choose a fun shape to divert eyesight up If you really want visitors to enjoy your decor, encourage them to scan the entire space by providing them with a point of interest up high. Take design cues from this plywood dining setting and use an unusually shaped pendant to complement your furniture – and still stand out. Here, the organic nature of the pendant provides a contrast to the hard lines of the furniture. However, as the materials of both elements are similar, stylistically they work well together.
Contrast with colour Playing with brightly coloured pendants is a simple way to provide a welcome contrast to a monochromatic backdrop. If you’re wanting to create a strong contrast, stick with a monochromatic backdrop and vibrant pendants. For a softer look, search for pendants in mid-tone colours or pastels.
One beautiful Moroccan-style light would enhance any room, but a trio, clustered at three heights, triples the impact and is a better scale for a larger room. You could also have fun with three different vintage lights in a friendly cluster, with a common element like colour, material or shape to link them. Two or four would look uneasy – three or five, perfect.
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