Guest Picks: Dashing Lighting for Over the Kitchen Island
This summer my family and I are moving to a new home. The packing process is not fun, so to save my sanity, I like to daydream about the new decor. Of course, there will be furniture to arrange and walls in need of fresh paint, but my favorite change for immediate impact is lighting. It makes a style statement and can serve as a great jumping-off point for the whole room’s design. And our future abode has a kitchen island that would benefit from a chandelier.
The newest kitchen trend is a long island with two large pendants or a couple of mini chandeliers. However, my new island is on the smaller side and wired for only a single light. Luckily, double or triple pendants with only one connection are available. I’m drawn to industrial and schoolhouse lighting, but I could also do a large pendant shade, a traditional chandelier or the popular billiards style. Plus, the kitchen’s current white glazed cabinets and neutral palette mean that the style options really are endless.
Below are 20 fixtures from transitional to modern. See if any might work above your own island. — Erin from Two Story Cottage
Period Pendant Island Chandelier, Copper - $570This copper beauty is perfect for the farmhouse look. It is classic, charming and just the right size for over a kitchen island.
Medium Hook and Line Chandelier With Oval Shades, Aged Iron - $469This chandelier defines casual elegance. The double shades are an eye-catching twist.
Lourdes Chandelier - $149This chandelier is a sure winner in any kitchen or dining room. It is light and graceful despite its generous size.
Denley 6-Light Pendant Chandelier - $399This pendant chandelier has a strong presence. The jute-wrapped arms nicely balance the more industrial-style shade.
Talbot Indoor-Outdoor Lantern - $349For a smaller space, this square lantern is just the ticket. The open, airy look adds a modern touch to a more classic design.
Rope Chandelier - $179.99You can't beat the price of this lovely chandelier. The rope adds warmth and texture to an otherwise simple piece.
Grandview 2-Light Chandelier, Copper Dome Shade - $445Embrace the schoolhouse look with this industrial masterpiece. Choose from two or three pendants, both with a single connection.
Arlington 3-Light Island Fixture - $342This chandelier has a beautiful shape and crisp, clean lines. And the glass shades soften the look.
Triarch International Bronze-Finish Chain-Link 6-Light Island Light - $286.99Make a statement above your island with this triple-pendant chandelier. It will instantly take your space from plain to modern.
Allen + Roth Bristow Mission Bronze Kitchen Island Light With Clear Shade - $199The retro look is all the rage these days. This light is a nod to the past, but it will fit with modern or traditional decor.
Quoizel Jillian Island Chandelier With 5 Lights - $379.99This five-light chandelier is an elegant choice for above the island in a traditional kitchen. It evokes a simple beauty without being fussy.
19th-Century English Openwork 17-Inch Pendant, Aged Iron - $629This lantern is meant to be noticed. The aged iron adds rustic beauty to this handsome piece.
2-Tier Round Shade Pendant - $475You’ll have the most envied kitchen among your neighbors with this simple yet elegant light. The two-tiered shade adds desirable dimension for a custom look.
Canarm Monica 3-Light Chandelier, Oil-Rubbed Bronze - $151.51This pendant light is a strong contender for my new breakfast space. The curved lines soften the more modern design.
Livex Lighting 6296-91 Ceiling Light - $327.90How about a stunning and still affordable chandelier? This light fits the bill. The extra-wide drum shade is perfect for a large island.Buy on Houzz
Victory Pendant Lamp - $179This pendant is industrial perfection. It is wide enough to stand alone but also looks great in a set of two.
Alyson Fox Drum Pendant - $179Why not add a little pattern to your kitchen? This geometric printed drum shade is a work of art.
Large Industrial Glass Pendant, Milk - $179Milk glass is a classic for a reason. This shade adds a dose of sweetness to an otherwise industrial-looking light. And it can be used alone or coupled up.
Sunset 3-Light Uplight Chandelier - $419A glass shade creates a different take on the traditional drum light. This pendant is very versatile; it suits nearly any style.
Penbrooke Chandelier - $539In a sea of bronze, it is easy to overlook the nickel chandeliers. But this bold beauty is meant to be noticed. The shades have a glamorous sheen, and the fixture itself is sophisticated.
Next: Get More From Your Kitchen Island