How to Choose a Pendant Light Height Over a Kitchen Island

Get the height right the first time

Hang a pendant too high and it looks lost; too low and it blocks sightlines. Here's the designer formula for perfect pendant lighting over a kitchen island.

The magic number: 30–36 inches

Hang the bottom of each pendant 30 to 36 inches above the countertop. Closer to 30" for smaller kitchens, 36" for high or vaulted ceilings.

How many and how to space them

For most islands, two or three pendants look balanced. Keep at least 6 inches from each island end, and space them evenly between. A single large pendant works over a compact island.

Size matters too

The combined width of your pendants should be about one-third the length of the island. Explore island-ready styles in our pendant lights and crystal lighting collections.

More: Warm vs Cool Light and the complete lighting guide.