A classic pendant light lights a dining room or hallway with elegance. Choose brass, bronze, glass or a fabric shade, then the drop and size for the room.
Classic shapes
- With a fabric shade: a soft, enveloping light, above a table or in a bedroom.
- With a glass bowl or dish: an even light that is easy to clean, ideal for the hallway and kitchen.
- With several lights: from 3 to 9 or more, to light a large table or a living room.
- With touches of crystal or wood: for a more refined or more country look.
Gold or brass finishes dominate, followed by black, chrome and bronze; copper adds a warmer note. In terms of style, the category covers classic, rustic and country, vintage and retro, and Art Deco.
Height, size and position
Above a table, leave 70 to 80 cm between the tabletop and the bottom of the light, with a diameter between half and two thirds of the table's width. For a long table, hang several pendants in a row, spaced 60 to 80 cm apart. Where people walk underneath, as in a hallway, keep at least 2 m of headroom under the light, ideally 2.10 m; under a ceiling lower than 2.50 m, choose a classic ceiling light instead.
For a dining table, see our dining room pendant lights; for a grander model with arms, our classic chandeliers. All our pendant lights are in the main category.
Frequently asked questions about classic pendant lights
How do I adjust the height of a classic pendant light on a chain?
Switch off the power at the consumer unit before doing anything. On a model with an adjustable drop, shorten the chain or rod by removing links or sections, then adjust the cable to match. Aim for 70 to 80 cm above the table. If the cable needs cutting, leave the job to an electrician.
Which bulb suits a classic pendant light with a fabric shade?
A warm white LED bulb with a standard cap is ideal: 3,000 K above a dining table, 2,700 K in a living room or bedroom. LEDs run cool, which protects the fabric; even so, respect the maximum wattage shown on the product page. A frosted bulb stops you seeing the bright point beneath the shade.
Is a classic pendant light suitable for a hallway?
Yes, as long as you respect the headroom: at least 2 m under the light, ideally 2.10 m. A glass bowl or a lantern gives an even light from the front door. Choose a 3,000 K warm white, suited to hallways and landings. Our guide how to light your entrance hall has more ideas.
