1. Check the ceiling height
High ceilings call for pendants with a vertical orientation — long and tall, or small and tall. What matters is that the pendant fills the void between the sink and ceiling with purpose, rather than floating awkwardly in the middle.
Low ceilings are no barrier to a pendant. In fact, a pendant in a room with a low ceiling can add a valuable layer of light that visually lifts the space. Choose something small that illuminates the ceiling as well as the sink — this creates a sense of volume and height despite limited headroom.
High ceilings? Choose a vertical pendant to fill the void
2. Check for ceiling obstructions
It sounds obvious, but I can't tell you how many times I've arrived on-site to find that a pendant we'd discussed won't work due to a beam, a post, or a skylight. There are always ways around these obstructions, but they require more care and attention than a standard ceiling.
If you have beams or tricky ceilings, there are lights that can work around obstructions
3. Sloped ceilings? Use compatible pendants
A sloped ceiling doesn't mean you can't have a beautiful pendant — it just means more research is needed to find the right mounting solution. Some pendants are specifically designed to handle angles; others can be adapted with the right canopy.
The cable and canopy are highly flexible and can mount onto a sloped ceiling
4. Check the width of the sink
Make sure your pendant (or pendants) aren't wider than the sink itself. They'll look unbalanced, and depending on the hanging height, you may end up walking into them. Always choose your sink and worktop before your pendant lights.
Check the width of your sink before ordering your pendants
5. Consider shelving
If you have a shelf above the sink, you can still hang a pendant — as long as it clears the shelf with enough light reaching the sink below. This depends on the shelf depth and the pendant's beam spread. A wide-beam pendant will do a better job of lighting both the shelf and the sink.
Takes shelves into account when hanging a pendant over your sink
6. Recess the canopy if you can
A recessed canopy sits flush with the ceiling, hiding all the electrics in the ceiling void and giving a beautifully clean finish. There are several factors to consider, but when it's possible, it's well worth doing.
Some linear (shown) and single pendants offer a recessed canopy option
7. Use IP44-rated pendants if within 60 cm of water
Most pendants are rated IP20, which is fine for general use — but if your pendant will hang within 60 cm of possible water contact, it must be rated IP44 or higher. There are some genuinely stylish IP44 options available; it's just a matter of knowing where to look.
Any light fitting within 60 cm radius of possible contact with water must be rated IP44 or higher.
There are a few stylish IP44 pendants to choose from
8. Think about cleaning and durability
Glass is beautiful and relatively easy to keep clean, but in a busy household it's worth considering alternative materials. Silicone, for example, is highly durable, break-proof, and available in some lovely finishes. Whatever you choose, factor in how you'll actually maintain it day to day.
High traffic kitchen? It might be best to avoid glass - opt for a durable material
9. Think outside the box
A linear pendant can work brilliantly over a kitchen sink. Slim, stylish, and delivering smooth, even light across the full width of the worktop, a linear pendant is a sophisticated alternative to a single hanging light. They come in many lengths and mounting configurations.
Browse linear pendants for kitchens — several work beautifully over sink areas.
Brilliant solution when there's no shelf to conceal LED task lighting
10. Plan for day and night
In the UK, we have long bright summers and very dark winters. Find a pendant you can dim at night for a warm, intimate feel, but that delivers a punch of crisp, clean light during the day. Dimmability is a must.
Aim for bright light on dark days and soft light in the evenings - use a dimmer!
11. Put it on a separate circuit
If you can, ask your electrician to put the pendant light(s) on a separate, dimmable circuit from the other lights. This lets you control the pendant independently — dimming it at night for atmosphere, or ramping it up on a dark day when you need more light.
There are so many beautiful switches and sockets on the market these days — push the boat out and choose one that make you happy when you use it.
Take your sockets and switches into consideration
More Inspiration ...
Here are some more images of pendant lights over kitchen sinks for inspiration:
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