Kitchen lighting - pendants that blend with the outside view

A pretty pendant (or multiple) over an island or sink can definitely add style to any kitchen, but what if you are blessed with a pretty view to the outside? would a pendant light over the sink or island block that view? it might. so how do you handle this situation?

Glass pendants and lanterns are visually light and airy, and blend in with the outdoor when hung in front of a window. like this pendant from pottery barn. It simply blends in with the view through the large bay window to the garden.

 pottery barn rustic glass pendant over the sink blends in with outside view

 West elm's industrial pendant looks more sleek and contemporary


 
                                    

This chrome-capped bulb reflects light back towards the fixture, eliminating the blinding bright hot spot of standard clear bulbs

                                    

West elm's cluster glass can work with different styles

                                         


Shades of light have some beautiful choices such as this one which I saw at a friends house over an island (she had two of them)

                               

  

       This one comes in green, blue and clear.

                           

For a more traditional or oriental  look, Ballard design's marakesh melon pendant combines glass and iron which adds definition and sharpness to the shape of the glass.

                

   

marakesh melon pendant

                      

It's important to understand the draw backs of those pretty glass pendants:

1. They glare, so use a low wattage bulb or keep them on a dimmer and don't buy one if  any kind of glare really bothers you.

2. Wattage - since the bulb is seen through the glass pendant, you would most likely keep the wattage low so don't expect a lot of light from those pretty lamps.

2. Mounting height - mount them higher than eye level (consider the tallest person in the house, just like you would with placing a mirror...)

            

Chandeliers also have that light and airy look

                                         

                                                   

                                      

                         

                              

                               
West elm's capiz chandelier is airy and light without the glare of clear glass

                              

                              

                             
Another way to avoid blocking views with a pendant is by either mounting them high enough or by choosing a flush mount fixture.

                  

Wilamette 6 Schoolhouse Pendant Light Schoolhouse  

                                     

source

If you'd like help with color, redesigning or decorating your own home, contact me @ 

vered@veredrosendesign.com

617-584-9965

veredrosendesign.com

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