Pendant lighting: tips for your house extension or self-build
Architectural Design Insights | Alistair Crerar
How to select the perfect pendant lights for your new space.
Pendant lighting is one of the most effective ways to add both function and style to your new extension or self-build project. Whether placed elegantly above a kitchen island, dining table, or in a hallway, pendants create a focal point and help define how a space is used.
From budget-friendly designs at IKEA to luxury pieces from leading brands like Chaplins, there’s a pendant style for every taste. The key is proportion, choosing a light that enhances your design rather than overwhelms it. At Acre Design, we use advanced 3D modelling software to help clients visualise scale and dimensions, ensuring your chosen fittings suit the space perfectly.
Getting the Size Right
- Width: Add the length and width of your room (in metres), then divide by 12. This gives the ideal pendant width. For example, a 3m x 5m room = 8m. Divided by 12 = approx. 67cm wide. If using multiple pendants, divide by the number of lights.
- Height/Drop: Multiply your ceiling height by 3, then divide by 12. A 3m-high ceiling = approx. 75cm drop length.
- Clearance:
- Above tables or kitchen islands: 71–91cm from surface to fitting.
- In walkways: at least 2.13m from floor to pendant base.
- Hallways: minimum 15cm above the top of the door frame.
Choosing the Right Style
Before falling in love with a design, consider the role of your pendant:
- Task Lighting – Ideal for workspaces like kitchen islands. Opt for open-bottom shades that direct light downward.
- Ambient Lighting – Creates a warm, even glow for dining or social spaces.
- Accent Lighting – Perfect for highlighting architectural details or materials.
- Decorative Lighting – Adds sparkle and personality, even if not highly functional.
Bulb choice matters too: strong bulbs in task lights may need dimmers, while decorative fittings may work best with softer, warmer lighting.
Final Thoughts
Pendant lighting can transform the feel of your new extension, striking a balance between beauty and practicality. The right choice not only elevates the interior design but also ensures your space works seamlessly for the way you live.
At Acre Design, we combine expert architectural design with an eye for detail, helping our clients create elegant, timeless interiors.
Take a look at our recent projects for inspiration, or get in touch to arrange a free, no-obligation consultation at your home.
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CAI Building, Royal Quays,
North Shields, NE29 6DE