Pendant Light Height & Spacing Calculator
Tell us where the light is going and we will work out how high to hang it, how many pendants to use and how far apart to space them. Measurements in inches or centimeters.
Over a kitchen island or dining table, hang the bottom of the shade 30–36 in (76–91 cm) above the surface. Beside a bed, hang it 20–24 in (50–60 cm) above the nightstand. For every foot of ceiling above 8 ft, raise the pendant about 3 in (7.5 cm per 30 cm above 2.4 m).
Pendants that fit
A starting point, not a rule. Final height depends on your ceiling, seating and sightlines. Installation by a qualified electrician.
FAQ
How high should pendant lights hang over a kitchen island?
Hang the bottom of the shade 30–36 in (76–91 cm) above the countertop. With ceilings over 8 ft, raise it about 3 in for every extra foot.
How far apart should pendant lights be?
Space pendants 24–36 in (61–91 cm) apart, center to center, and keep the end pendants about 12 in (30 cm) in from each end of the island.
How many pendants over a kitchen island?
Most islands take two or three. Subtract 24 in from the island length, then choose the number that gives 24–36 in between pendants.
What size pendant over a dining table?
For a single pendant, choose a shade about one third to one half the width (or diameter) of the table.
How high should a bedside pendant hang?
About 20–24 in (50–60 cm) above the nightstand.