If you are looking for an eye-catching lighting fixture to hang in your home but aren’t completely sold on the idea of a chandelier, then multi-light pendant lighting might be the perfect option for you. Multi-light pendants are dramatic, eye-catching and versatile.

A multi-light pendant is a lighting fixture with multiple hanging lights connected to one central fixture. It provides a look similar to individual pendants, but is more convenient for rooms with only one overhead lighting fixture.

Where Will it Hang

When shopping for multi-pendants, it is important to start by scoping out your home to determine where the light will hang and what special considerations you may need to take into account. For example, do you already have existing lighting fixtures so you can easily wire your new pendant up with just a few wire connectors and screws? Or do you need to wire in a new fixture? If this is the case it might be a good idea to bring in a professional electrician unless you are known to be particularly handy and will start any project with a trip to the breaker box to turn off the electricity.

With such an extensive selection of multi-pendant lights, you have options for almost any area of your home. A large, dramatic multi-light pendant with many elements could be a stunning addition to a foyer. A smaller, three-light pendant can illuminate a reading nook or small bar.

Not Too Low, Not Too High

Next, determine how low you want your new multi-light pendant to hang. It shouldn’t hang so low that tall people could potentially hit their head or simply feel that it is hovering to close, but also needs to hang enough to get the full look and feel of a hanging pendant rather than a pendant cramped up near the ceiling.

When shopping for multi-light pendant, take into account whether it hangs with elements that can be lengthened and shortened or if it is a set length that cannot be adjusted and purchase according to your needs. Remember that not all lights can be easily adjusted and refer to product specifications to determine if it will work for what you need.

Dust Off the Calculator

Next consider how bright your multi-light pendant will need to be to create the perfect amount of ambient light for your home. Different light bulb types, different amounts of light bulbs and wattage will determine how bright the pendant can be. A good formula to use is:

Room Length x Room Width x 1.5 = Required wattage to light a room

This equation is ideal for ambient (general purpose lighting) as opposed for task lighting used to read or write under.