Thursday, January 29, 2009

The Special Coffeehouse Feel

By James Gilbert Pynn

For the record, nothing compares to the sleek beauty of a pendant light. An odd statement, you say? Perhaps. But you simply must learn to appreciate the quiet elegance and suggestive tranquility the pendant light conveys. Ever strolled into a Starbucks? What makes their interiors so comfortable, other than the rich wood paneling? The lighting, specifically the pendant lights hanging above the bar.

Before you dust off that toolbox in the shed, it would behoove you to take am moment " pour a cup of tea " and consider how pendant lights can accentuate your entire home. There are a number of varieties that can suit you needs. It is crucial you weigh your options and think about their ramifications. Say youre keen on enlivening your bathroom; a pendant light would be best suit over the vanity, on a short cord and with a neutral or white shade. Unless you prefer dark bathrooms, in which case Im not sure what to say.

Pendant lights are best suited, in my opinion, for open areas, where a dramatic ceiling or bar can best accentuate their length and targeted scope. Also known as drop lights, pendant lights can be suspended from any surface and can feature any number of suspension materials. Sleek chains, steel fibers, plain cords " practically anything can be used to suspend these quintessential fixtures.

In addition to the type of cord you wish to use, you must take into consideration the size of the light. How do I know this, you ask? Magic. Consider the area you want lit and then realize you can buy pendant lights in ubiquitous small, medium, and large sizes. Indeed, the shades can also be switched out, coupling a large shade with a medium bulb. Say youre trying to light up a long hallway. The best solution is a row of medium pendants, evenly spaced. Pull out a pen and do some diagramming. Dont be afraid to jot a few notes.

Now, you may be concerned about how high you need to hang my beloved pendants. A good rule of thumb when it comes to hanging a pendant light above a table is to remember they should hang between 28 and 34 inches above the tabletop. Be aware if you hang it too high, itll reduce the perceived size of the room and if you hanging it too low, youre asking for head trauma. Ah, the sweet joy of pendant lighting! Now, run along and get to decorating and creating that special, cozy, coffeehouse experience right in your own home. You do know how to make a latte dont you? - 15252

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