Businessweek

There’s More Than Just Looks to Consider When Buying a Pendant Light

Here are four rules of thumb to keep in mind.

From left: Foscarini’s Aplomb, the Median Mono from Apparatus, and Beem’s Smile 01 pendant light.

Photographer: Hannah Whitaker for Bloomberg Businessweek

Pendant lights serve multiple purposes in interior design that go beyond mere illumination. They designate space, such as a dining or seating area, in the same way a rug does. And—with a pop of color, rich material, unusual shape, or other style choice—they can either draw the eye upward or seamlessly harmonize with your surroundings. Zesty Myers, co-founder of design gallery R & Company, recommends that buyers “consider the space and how the pendant can both stand out and compliment an interior.”

Here are four things to keep in mind when looking for the best option for your own home or business.