As we’ve mentioned before, lighting is an often overlooked (but essential) element of home decor. Pendants, which are typically used as task lighting, are an easy way to add brightness and character to a room. We’ve rounded up 10 fixtures in a variety of decorating styles that are sure to steal the spotlight.
1. SINNERLIG shade from IKEA, $79.99
This handmade bamboo shade comes from IKEA’s SINNERLIG collection with London designer Ilse Crawford. Its woven pattern diffuses a soft glowing light that creates a sense of coziness. The shade looks great over a dining table or as a focal point in a living room or bedroom.
2. Candlestick pendant light from CB2, $69.95
Light fixtures can easily look dated — just think about those all-too-commonplace brass chandeliers from the 90s. Fortunately, pendant lighting is quick and easy to update. These candlestick pendants from CB2 are also brass, but ultra-modern thanks to their geometric shape.
3. Luna antique black 10″ shade from Schoolhouse Electric & Supply Co., $179
A smoky black glass fixture lends a moody aura to the room, creating contrast between the bulb and shade. Globe lights are timeless, although a bit difficult to clean. We like this Schoolhouse Electric model when paired with a vintage style filament bulb.
4. Metal work light from Target, $70.80
Copper is definitely having a moment. It’s an eye-catching alternative to more trite metallics like gold and silver. This pendant from Target is industrial, but still has a warmness to it. It’s small in size, which means it can be installed pretty much anywhere. Use it as a bedside reading light or group a few together over the kitchen island.
5. Hudson filament swag light from Target, $46.99
Target has so many affordable (and awesome) lighting options, we couldn’t pick just one! This cylinder-shaped glass shade has an air bubble texture that creates slight diffusion. The fixture itself has an antique brass finish, which looks great with LED filament style bulbs.
6. Locust metal pipe pendant light from Urban Outfitters, $149
Mid-century modern lovers will be delighted by this metal pipe pendant light (and not just because it’s currently on sale). With eight protruding bulbs and a coppery finish, the fixture is guaranteed to give your space a vintage feel.
7. Brass and wood Glenn pendant light from World Market $69.99
This model from World Market has a teardrop shape that creates a clean, sophisticated silhouette. The contrast between the burnished brass shade and the natural wood tip is subtle, but impactful.
8. Metallic honeycomb glass pendant from West Elm, $74
Here at BuzzBuzzHome, we think the honeycomb trend is the bee’s knees. Handblown by artisans in India, the glass pendant has an unusual shape. Its textured silver finish adds just the right amount of glam to a space.
9. Wood veneer pendant lamp from OneFortyThree, $70
There are naysayers out there in the design world who believe that exposed bulbs are utterly impractical. Utility aside, these wood veneer pendants from OneFortyThree are brilliant. The company sells hardwired or plug-in versions, so even renters can adopt the look.
10. Mezzanine pendant light from The Land of Nod, $34.97
If you haven’t taken notice already we’re obsessed with children’s decor retailer The Land of Nod. They’re owned by the design conglomerate that is Crate & Barrel, CB2 and William Sonoma — so the quality is good, but the prices are even better. This angular pendant comes in white or black, and features a glistening gold interior. Plus, at that price you can afford to buy enough to light your whole kitchen.
