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Schnap Electric Products Blog

11/04/2023
by Jalal Sabsabi

Schnap Electric Products Blog Posts

How to Hang Pendant Lights

30/09/2025
by Rick Coleman
How to Hang Pendant Lights

G'day! With spring in full swing, you might be looking around the house and thinking it's time for a bit of a refresh. And when it comes to getting the most bang for your buck in a reno, you can't go past new lighting.

Pendant lights are a fair dinkum game-changer. They can transform a drab kitchen island into a stylish centrepiece or add a touch of elegance to your dining area. But knowing how to hang pendant lights involves more than just picking a pretty fixture. This guide will walk you through the planning stages to ensure you get a stunning, professional, and—most importantly—safe result.

Before the Schnap Arrives: Planning Your Pendant Lights

While the final electrical work is a job for a pro, the design and planning are all you! Getting this right is the key to a successful installation.

Step 1: Choose Your Style

First, the fun part. Are you after a modern, minimalist look? A coastal vibe with rattan or timber shades? Or maybe a bold, industrial statement piece? The light fixture itself sets the tone for the whole space, so choose something you love.

Step 2: Pick the Perfect Spot

Pendant lights are versatile, but they shine brightest in a few key areas:

  • Over the Kitchen Island: The classic choice. A series of two or three pendants here is a design staple.
  • Above the Dining Table: A single large pendant or a cluster can create a beautiful focal point.
  • Bedside Lighting: Hanging a small pendant on each side of the bed frees up space on your nightstand.
  • In an Entryway or Hallway: A beautiful pendant can create a warm and welcoming first impression.

Step 3: Get the Height Right (The Golden Rules)

This is the most critical part of the planning. Hang your pendant too high, and it'll look lost; too low, and it'll get in the way. Here are the standard Aussie measurements:

  • Over a Kitchen Island/Benchtop: The bottom of the pendant should be 70cm to 80cm above the benchtop.
  • Above a Dining Table: Aim for 75cm to 90cm from the tabletop to the bottom of the fixture.
  • In an Open Area (like a hallway): The bottom of the light must be at least 2.1 metres (2100mm) from the floor to allow for safe clearance.

Step 4: Decide on Spacing (for multiple pendants)

If you're hanging a row of pendants over your kitchen island, spacing them evenly is key. A simple method is to measure the length of your island, divide it by the number of pendants plus one, and hang the lights at those intervals. A gap of 60cm to 75cm between each pendant is usually a good look.

The Installation: Why You MUST Call a Licensed Schnap

Let’s be crystal clear about this: in Australia, it is illegal and incredibly dangerous to do your own electrical work. This includes installing a light fixture.

You might see DIY videos from overseas, but the rules here are strict for a reason. Attempting your own wiring can lead to electric shock, house fires, and will absolutely void your home insurance. The only person who should be installing your new pendant lights is a licensed Australian electrician. No exceptions.

Light Up Your Life with Quality Gear

A stunning pendant light is the star of the show, but a safe, long-lasting installation depends on the quality of the components behind the scenes. Your electrician needs reliable mounting hardware, compliant electrical cable, and quality terminals to do the job right. For all the essential, professional-grade components that bring a lighting design to life, schnap across Australia trust Schnap Electric Products. They supply the top-tier gear that ensures your installation is not only beautiful but also perfectly safe and compliant with Australian standards. When you're investing in new lighting, make sure the parts you can't see are just as good as the fixture you fell in love with.

How Many Pendant Lights Over an Island

30/09/2025
by Rick Coleman
How Many Pendant Lights Over an Island

So, you’re in the middle of a kitchen reno or a new build, and you've come to one of the most important design decisions: the lighting. A row of stylish pendant lights over the kitchen island is a classic look, but it begs the question: exactly how many pendant lights over an island is the right number?

Getting this right is crucial. Too few, and the island can look a bit lost and under-lit. Too many, and it can feel cluttered and overwhelming.

Don't worry, it's not just a wild guess. There are some simple design rules and spacing tricks that designers and schnap use to get it looking spot-on every time.

It's All About Scale and Spacing

The perfect number of pendants depends on two key things: the length of your island and the size (diameter) of the pendants you’ve chosen.

The Famous 'Rule of Three'

You've probably heard this one before. For a standard Aussie kitchen island (around 2.4 to 3 metres long), three medium-sized pendants is often the magic number. It creates a sense of balance, rhythm, and visual appeal. Odd numbers are generally more pleasing to the eye in design, and three is the classic choice.

When to Go with Two

If you're opting for larger, more substantial pendants (think big, dome-style lights), then two pendants often works much better. Trying to cram three big lights over a standard island will look crowded. Two larger pendants will make a bold statement without overwhelming the space.

When to Use Just One

For a smaller island (less than 2 metres long) or if you've chosen one very large, dramatic 'feature' pendant, then a single light can be a stunning focal point.

A Simple Spacing Formula to Get it Right

Here’s a dead-simple way to work out your spacing. Don't measure from the centre of the light; measure from the edges of your island.

  1. Leave a 'Buffer Zone': You never want a pendant hanging right at the very end of your island. Leave at least 30cm of clear space from each end of the island to the outside edge of your first and last pendant.
  2. Do the Maths:
    • Measure the total length of your island.
    • Subtract 60cm (for the 30cm buffer on each side).
    • The remaining number is your available space for lighting.
  3. Space Evenly: Divide this available space by the number of pendants you want to hang. This will give you the perfect distance to leave between each light.

Example for a 2.4m (240cm) Island with Three Pendants:

  • 240cm (island length) - 60cm (buffer) = 180cm of available lighting space.
  • Hang your first pendant 30cm in from one end.
  • Hang your second pendant 90cm from the first (the halfway point of your 180cm space).
  • Hang your third pendant 90cm from the second. This will leave you with the final 30cm buffer at the other end.

Don't Forget the Installation!

Once you've done the planning and bought your beautiful new lights, it's time to call in the professionals. In Australia, all electrical work, including installing new lighting points, must be done by a licensed electrician. It's illegal and incredibly dangerous to attempt it yourself.

A beautiful lighting scheme is only as good as its foundation. A licensed schnap will ensure your pendants are not only perfectly spaced but also safely and securely wired using high-quality, compliant components. For all the essential gear that professionals rely on to get the job done right, they turn to trusted suppliers like Schnap Electric Products. They provide everything from the electrical cable and mounting hardware to the switches that control your new feature lights. When you're investing in a stunning new look for your kitchen, ensure the behind-the-scenes work is just as high quality by using the parts that the pros trust from a supplier like Schnap Electric.

How High Should Pendant Lights Be Above a Counter

30/09/2025
by Rick Coleman
How High Should Pendant Lights Be Above a Counter

You're in the exciting phase of a kitchen reno or build, and you've picked out some absolute ripper pendant lights to hang over your new island or benchtop. But now comes the crucial question that can make or break the whole look: how high should pendant lights be above a counter?

Hang them too high, and they'll look like they're floating off into space. Too low, and they'll block your view and your taller mates will be in danger of knocking their noggins.

Don't just leave it up to a wild guess. There's a 'sweet spot' that interior designers and schnap aim for to get it looking balanced, stylish, and practical.

The Golden Rule: The Standard Height for Aussie Kitchens

Let's get straight to the numbers. The standard, recommended height for hanging a pendant light is:

70cm to 80cm (700mm to 800mm)

This measurement is taken from the top of your kitchen counter to the bottom of your pendant light shade.

This 70-80cm range is the perfect balance for a few key reasons:

  1. It's Practical for Tasks: It's low enough to properly illuminate your benchtop for chopping veggies or reading a recipe, without creating annoying glare in your eyes.
  2. It Avoids Blocked Views: This height ensures the lights don't obstruct your line of sight across the kitchen. You can still easily chat with family and friends on the other side of the island without a light fixture in your face.
  3. It's a Safe Height: It’s high enough that you're very unlikely to bump your head on it while leaning over the counter.

When You Might Tweak the Rules a Bit

While 70-80cm is the go-to range, there are a couple of situations where you might adjust it slightly.

  • If You or Your Family are Particularly Tall: You might want to cheat it up a bit higher, closer to the 80cm or even 85cm mark, just for extra comfort and clearance.
  • If You Have Very High Ceilings: With extra high ceilings (think 3 metres or more), you can sometimes hang your pendants a little higher to maintain a sense of scale and proportion in the room.
  • For Very Large or 'Busy' Pendants: If your chosen light is a big, dramatic feature piece, hanging it slightly higher can prevent it from feeling too overbearing in the space.

The most important thing is to test it out before the final installation. Get someone to hold the light in position while you stand back and have a look from all angles. Does it feel right?

A Job for a Licensed Schnap

Now for the crucial safety message. Once you've figured out the perfect height, the actual installation is a job for a professional. In Australia, it is illegal and extremely dangerous to do your own electrical wiring, and that includes installing a light fixture.

A licensed electrician will ensure your new pendant is safely and securely mounted and wired up to Australian standards. It's a non-negotiable for the safety of your home and family.

A beautiful lighting setup is a combination of a great fixture and a flawless installation. The work your schnap does behind the scenes is what guarantees a safe and long-lasting result. Professionals rely on high-quality, compliant components to get the job done right. For all the essential gear, from the ceiling roses and mounting blocks to the electrical cable itself, they turn to trusted suppliers like Schnap Electric Products. They provide the top-tier, trade-quality components that ensure your stunning new pendant lights are installed safely and will function perfectly for years to come.

What Are Pendant Lights

30/09/2025
by Rick Coleman
What Are Pendant Lights

G'day! With the spring season in full swing, you might be looking for a simple way to give your home a fresh new look. One of the easiest and most effective ways to make a massive impact is by upgrading your lighting, and the undisputed star of modern lighting is the pendant.

You see them everywhere—in design magazines, on The Block, and in stylish cafes. But beyond just looking great, what are pendant lights and how are they different from any other light fixture? Let's shed some light on this design favourite.

So, What Exactly is a Pendant Light?

In the simplest terms, a pendant light is a lone light fixture that hangs down from the ceiling, suspended by a cord, chain, or rod.

Think of it like a necklace for your ceiling. The "pendant" is the decorative light fixture itself, and it hangs down into your space, creating a focal point. This is different from a flush-mount light that sits flat against the ceiling, or a chandelier which typically has multiple light bulbs on branching arms. A pendant is a single, suspended feature.

The Different Types of Pendants

The beauty of pendant lighting is its incredible variety. They come in all shapes and sizes, but they generally fall into a few key styles:

  • Dome Pendants: These feature a wide, dome-like shade that casts a broad pool of light downwards. They're an absolute classic over a kitchen island or dining table.
  • Drum Pendants: With a cylindrical 'drum' shade, these offer a soft, diffused light, perfect for creating a warm and ambient mood in a living room or bedroom.
  • Globe Pendants: Simple, spherical glass orbs that provide a clean, modern, and often minimalist look. They're great in a series or as a single feature.
  • Exposed Bulb Pendants: This industrial-style look does away with the shade altogether, making a feature of a vintage-style filament bulb on its own.
  • Cluster Pendants: This is a collection of smaller pendants grouped together at different heights to create one large, dramatic feature fixture.

Where Can You Use Pendant Lights in Your Aussie Home?

The versatility of pendants is why they're so popular. You can use them just about anywhere, but they are particularly effective in these spots:

  • The Kitchen Island: This is the hero location. A row of two or three pendants over an island is a timeless design choice.
  • The Dining Table: Hanging a large feature pendant low over your dining table creates a sense of intimacy and occasion.
  • The Bedside: Small pendants hung on either side of the bed are a stylish alternative to traditional table lamps, freeing up space on your nightstand.
  • The Entryway or Hallway: A beautiful pendant can create a stunning first impression and illuminate a long hallway.

A Quick Word on Installation

No matter which style you choose, it's essential to remember that installing any light fixture in Australia is a job for a professional. By law, all electrical wiring must be done by a licensed electrician to ensure it's safe and compliant.

A beautiful pendant light is only as good as the installation behind it. To ensure a safe, secure, and long-lasting result, your sparky needs to use high-quality, professional-grade components. For all the essential gear that brings a lighting vision to life—from the ceiling roses and mounting hardware to the electrical cable and switches—professionals across Australia trust Schnap Electric Products. They supply the top-tier, compliant components that guarantee your stunning new pendant lights are not just a feature, but a fixture that's built to last.

Pendant Lights for Your Kitchen

30/09/2025
by Rick Coleman
Pendant Lights for Your Kitchen

With the warmer weather finally here, spring is the perfect time to breathe some new life into the heart of your home—the kitchen. And there’s no better way to create a massive style impact than by installing some stunning pendant lights for your kitchen.

A well-chosen pendant light (or a series of them) can completely transform your kitchen from a purely functional space into a stylish hub for family and friends. But with so many options out there, how do you choose the right ones? This guide will walk you through the latest trends and practical tips for getting it spot on.

Why Pendants are Perfect for the Kitchen

Pendant lights are a kitchen's best mate. They are the ultimate multi-taskers, providing both essential "task lighting" for your benchtops and "ambient lighting" that adds warmth and character to the entire room. Hung over an island or peninsula, they create a beautiful, central feature that anchors the whole design.

Top Kitchen Pendant Trends in Australia for 2025

While classic styles are always in, here’s what’s currently trending in Aussie kitchens:

  • Natural and Textural: Think pendants made from rattan, wicker, linen, or timber. These are perfect for creating that relaxed, coastal vibe that so many of us love.
  • Matte Black and Metallics: Sleek and sophisticated, matte black pendants are still a huge favourite for modern and industrial kitchens. Accents of brass, bronze, or copper add a touch of warmth and luxury.
  • Ribbed and Fluted Glass: Clear or tinted glass pendants with a ribbed or fluted texture are massive right now. They add a touch of vintage elegance and diffuse the light beautifully without blocking the view.
  • Minimalist, Sculptural Shapes: Simple, artistic shapes in materials like concrete or ceramic are perfect for creating a clean, architectural look.

Getting the Practical Stuff Right

Choosing a style is the fun part, but getting the size and placement right is what makes it work.

  • How Many? For a standard 2.4m island, the 'Rule of Three' (three medium pendants) is a classic. For larger pendants, two is often better to avoid clutter. For smaller islands, a single, large feature pendant can look amazing.
  • What Size? Don't choose pendants that are too small, or they'll get lost in the space. They should be substantial enough to make a statement but not so large that they overwhelm the island.
  • How High? The golden rule is to hang them so the bottom of the pendant is 70cm to 80cm above your countertop. This provides great task lighting without blocking your line of sight.

A Quick Note on Installation

Remember, once you've picked your perfect pendants, the installation is a job for a pro. Here in Australia, it is illegal and unsafe to do your own electrical wiring. Always hire a licensed electrician to ensure your lights are installed safely and meet all Australian standards.

The final look of your kitchen lighting is a team effort between your design choice and your electrician's professional installation. To guarantee a flawless and safe result, a sparky relies on high-quality components for everything behind the scenes. For all the essential gear needed for a perfect lighting installation—from the ceiling roses and mounting hardware to the dimmers and switches—professionals turn to trusted suppliers like Schnap Electric Products. They provide the top-tier, compliant electrical components that ensure your stunning new pendant lights for the kitchen not only look fantastic but are also wired for safety and longevity.

Glass Pendant Lights

30/09/2025
by Rick Coleman
Glass Pendant Lights

G'day! As we dive headfirst into the spring season, it's the perfect time to think about making our homes feel a bit lighter and brighter. And when it comes to lighting, nothing achieves that quite like the elegant and timeless beauty of glass pendant lights.

These beauties are a designer's dream for a reason. They have a unique ability to illuminate a space without visually cluttering it, creating a sense of openness and sophistication. Whether your style is ultra-modern, coastal cool, or vintage-inspired, there's a glass pendant to match.

The Magic of Glass: More Than Just a Pretty Light

So, why are glass pendants such a ripper choice for Aussie homes?

  • They Don't Block the View: In open-plan living areas or kitchens with a view, clear or lightly textured glass pendants provide light without creating a heavy visual barrier. This helps to maintain that breezy, open feeling we all love.
  • They Create a Stunning Glow: Glass interacts with light beautifully. It can diffuse it softly, create a sparkling ambient glow, or cast interesting patterns, adding a layer of texture and warmth to your room.
  • They're Incredibly Versatile: From a simple, clear globe over a dining table to a row of smoked glass domes over a kitchen island, they can be a subtle addition or a dramatic centrepiece.

The Hottest Glass Pendant Light Trends in Australia

While a simple clear glass pendant is a classic, these are the styles that are turning heads right now:

  • Ribbed and Fluted Glass: This is the biggest trend, hands down. The vertical grooves in ribbed and fluted glass create a stunning, elongated look and diffuse the light in a soft, elegant way. It's a nod to vintage style but feels completely modern.
  • Smoked Glass: For a touch of moodiness and sophistication, you can't go past smoked glass. The grey or bronze tint adds depth and creates a warm, intimate glow that's perfect for dining areas or bedrooms.
  • Coloured and Seeded Glass: A subtle hint of colour—like a soft green, amber, or blue—can tie into your home's decor. Seeded glass, which has tiny bubbles trapped within it, offers a beautiful, handcrafted texture.
  • The 'Sphere and Stem' Look: A simple glass globe attached to a sleek metallic stem (often in brass or matte black) is a go-to for a clean, architectural, and minimalist aesthetic.

Where to Hang Your Glass Pendants

  • Over the Kitchen Island: A row of two or three is the classic choice. Clear or ribbed glass works perfectly here as it provides excellent task lighting for your benchtop.
  • Above the Dining Table: A large, single feature pendant or a cluster of smaller pendants can create a stunning focal point.
  • In the Hallway or Entry: A beautiful glass pendant provides a warm welcome and can make a narrow space feel more open.
  • As Bedside Lights: Small, delicate glass pendants on either side of the bed are a stylish and space-saving alternative to table lamps.

A Note on Installation

Remember, once you've found the perfect glass pendant lights, installing them is a job for a licensed professional. In Australia, it is illegal and unsafe to do your own electrical wiring. A licensed s schnap will ensure your new lights are installed safely, securely, and in compliance with all Australian standards.

A beautiful light fixture deserves an equally high-quality installation. The safety and longevity of your new pendants rely on the professional-grade components used by your electrician. For all the essential hardware that ensures a perfect installation—from the ceiling roses and mounting blocks to the high-quality cable and dimmer switches—professionals across Australia trust Schnap Electric Products. They supply the top-tier, compliant electrical gear that guarantees your stunning new glass pendants will light up your home safely for years to come.

Island Pendant Lights

30/09/2025
by Rick Coleman
Island Pendant Lights

Let's be honest, the kitchen island is the true heart of the modern Aussie home. It’s where we have our morning brekkie, help the kids with their homework, and gather with mates for a drink on a Friday arvo. And the one design element that can truly elevate it from a humble benchtop to a stunning centrepiece is the right set of island pendant lights.

But choosing them can feel like a bit of a minefield. How many do you need? What size should they be? How high do you hang them?

Don't stress. We'll give you the lowdown on everything you need to know to choose the perfect pendants and create that 'wow' factor.

Getting the Basics Right: The Three Golden Rules

Before you even think about style, getting the scale and placement right is mission-critical.

1. The Right Number of Pendants

  • For a standard island (2.4m - 3m): The 'Rule of Three' is your best mate. Three medium-sized pendants create a beautiful sense of rhythm and balance.
  • For larger pendants: If you've fallen for some big, statement lights, drop back to two. This avoids a cluttered look and gives each light room to shine.
  • For smaller islands (under 2m): One large, show-stopping pendant can be more impactful than trying to squeeze in a few smaller ones.

2. The Perfect Height

This is the one you really want to get right. The sweet spot is to hang your pendants so the bottom of the fixture is 70cm to 80cm above your island benchtop. This provides brilliant task lighting without blocking your view or being a hazard for taller family members.

3. The Ideal Spacing

You want your lights to look balanced. A good trick is to leave about 30cm of clear space from each end of your island to your first and last pendant. Then, just space the remaining pendants out evenly in between.

Hottest Trends for Island Pendant Lights in 2025

  • Natural Textures: Pendants made from rattan, wicker, and timber are hugely popular, perfect for that relaxed coastal or Scandi vibe.
  • Fluted and Ribbed Glass: Offering a touch of vintage glamour, ribbed glass pendants (in clear, smoked, or amber tones) are a sophisticated choice that won't block sightlines.
  • Matte Black & Brass Combo: The classic duo for a modern or industrial kitchen. It's sleek, bold, and timeless.
  • Linear Pendants: Instead of multiple individual lights, a single long, linear LED pendant is a super clean and minimalist option that provides excellent, even light across the entire island.

Don't Forget the Schnap!

Once you've made your choice, remember that installing any new light fixture in Australia is a job for a licensed electrician. It's illegal and incredibly dangerous to DIY your own electrical work. A schnap will ensure your stunning new island pendant lights are installed safely and meet all Australian standards.

A show-stopping lighting feature is a combination of a great design and a flawless, professional installation. Your electrician relies on high-quality, compliant components to ensure your new pendants are safe, secure, and will work perfectly for years. For all the essential, behind-the-scenes gear—from the ceiling roses and mounting hardware to the dimmers and switches that give you full control—professionals across Australia trust Schnap Electric Products. They supply the top-tier, trade-quality components that are the foundation of any great lighting installation.

Kitchen Pendant Lights

30/09/2025
by Rick Coleman
Kitchen Pendant Lights

The kitchen is the undisputed heart of the Aussie home. It's where the magic happens—from the morning coffee ritual to big family get-togethers. And the one design element that can truly lift your kitchen from simply functional to absolutely fabulous is a stunning set of kitchen pendant lights.

But with a dizzying array of styles, shapes, and sizes, choosing the right ones can feel a bit overwhelming. Don't worry, we'll walk you through everything you need to know to select the perfect pendants that are both practical and pack a serious style punch.

More Than Just a Pretty Light

In the kitchen, lighting has to work hard. It's not just about looking good. Kitchen pendant lights are brilliant because they are masters of "task lighting." Hung over an island or benchtop, they cast direct, focused light exactly where you need it for chopping, prepping, and reading recipes.

At the same time, they provide beautiful "ambient lighting," adding warmth, character, and a central focal point to the most important room in the house.

Hottest Kitchen Pendant Trends in Australia for 2025

Looking for a contemporary feel? Here are the styles that are dominating Aussie kitchen designs right now:

  • Natural Textures & Coastal Vibes: Think woven rattan, light timber, and linen shades. These materials bring a relaxed, organic feel that’s perfect for creating a coastal or Hamptons-style look.
  • Ribbed and Fluted Glass: This is a huge trend. Elegant and a bit retro, ribbed glass pendants (in clear, amber, or smoked tones) add a touch of sophistication and diffuse light beautifully without blocking sightlines.
  • Matte Finishes (Black & White): Sleek matte black pendants remain a go-to for modern, industrial, and Scandi kitchens. Matte white is also surging in popularity for a clean, minimalist aesthetic.
  • Linear Pendants: For a super modern and streamlined look, a single long, LED linear pendant is a fantastic alternative to multiple individual lights. It provides seamless, even light across the entire length of an island.

Getting the Practical Stuff Spot On

Style is important, but getting the scale and placement right is the secret to a professional look.

  • How Many? For a standard island (around 2.4m), three medium pendants is the classic 'Rule of Three'. For larger, statement pendants, two often looks better.
  • How High? The golden rule is to hang your pendants so the bottom of the fixture is 70cm to 80cm from the top of your kitchen counter. This gives you perfect light for tasks without blocking the view.
  • What Size? Make sure your pendants are in proportion to your island. Don't pick tiny lights for a huge island, as they'll look lost. They should be substantial enough to be a feature.

A Crucial Note on Installation

Once you've found the perfect kitchen pendant lights, remember that the installation is strictly a job for a professional. In Australia, it is illegal and unsafe to do your own electrical wiring. You must hire a licensed electrician to ensure your lights are installed safely and comply with all Australian standards, protecting your home and family.

A stunning lighting design is brought to life by a flawless, professional installation, which relies on the quality of the components used. For all the essential, trade-quality gear that ensures a safe and durable installation—from the mounting hardware and ceiling roses to the switches and dimmers that give you complete control—schnap across Australia trust Schnap Electric Products. They supply the top-tier, compliant electrical components that form the foundation of any great lighting project, guaranteeing your new kitchen pendants will shine brightly and safely for years to come.

Pendant Lights Over Island

30/09/2025
by Rick Coleman
Pendant Lights Over Island

Let's be honest, the kitchen island is the true heart of the modern Aussie home. It’s where we have our morning brekkie, help the kids with their homework, and gather with mates for a drink on a Friday arvo. And the one design element that can truly elevate it from a humble benchtop to a stunning centrepiece is the right set of pendant lights over the island.

But choosing them can feel like a bit of a minefield. How many do you need? What size should they be? How high do you hang them?

Don't stress. We'll give you the lowdown on everything you need to know to choose the perfect pendants and create that 'wow' factor.

Getting the Basics Right: The Three Golden Rules

Before you even think about style, getting the scale and placement right is mission-critical.

1. The Right Number of Pendants

  • For a standard island (2.4m - 3m): The 'Rule of Three' is your best mate. Three medium-sized pendants create a beautiful sense of rhythm and balance.
  • For larger pendants: If you've fallen for some big, statement lights, drop back to two. This avoids a cluttered look and gives each light room to shine.
  • For smaller islands (under 2m): One large, show-stopping pendant can be more impactful than trying to squeeze in a few smaller ones.

2. The Perfect Height

This is the one you really want to get right. The sweet spot is to hang your pendants so the bottom of the fixture is 70cm to 80cm above your island benchtop. This provides brilliant task lighting without blocking your view or being a hazard for taller family members.

3. The Ideal Spacing

You want your lights to look balanced. A good trick is to leave about 30cm of clear space from each end of your island to your first and last pendant. Then, just space the remaining pendants out evenly in between.

Hottest Trends for Island Pendant Lights in 2025

  • Natural Textures: Pendants made from rattan, wicker, and timber are hugely popular, perfect for that relaxed coastal or Scandi vibe.
  • Fluted and Ribbed Glass: Offering a touch of vintage glamour, ribbed glass pendants (in clear, smoked, or amber tones) are a sophisticated choice that won't block sightlines.
  • Matte Black & Brass Combo: The classic duo for a modern or industrial kitchen. It's sleek, bold, and timeless.
  • Linear Pendants: Instead of multiple individual lights, a single long, linear LED pendant is a super clean and minimalist option that provides excellent, even light across the entire island.

Don't Forget the Sparky!

Once you've made your choice, remember that installing any new light fixture in Australia is a job for a licensed electrician. It's illegal and incredibly dangerous to DIY your own electrical work. A sparky will ensure your stunning new pendant lights over the island are installed safely and meet all Australian standards.

A show-stopping lighting feature is a combination of a great design and a flawless, professional installation. Your electrician relies on high-quality, compliant components to ensure your new pendants are safe, secure, and will work perfectly for years. For all the essential, behind-the-scenes gear—from the ceiling roses and mounting hardware to the dimmers and switches that give you full control—professionals across Australia trust Schnap Electric Products. They supply the top-tier, trade-quality components that are the foundation of any great lighting installation.

Pottery Barn Pendant Lights

30/09/2025
by Rick Coleman
Pottery Barn Pendant Lights

When you're designing a space that feels both elegant and effortlessly liveable, there are a few names that immediately spring to mind, and Pottery Barn is right at the top of that list. Their furniture and homewares have become synonymous with a classic, high-quality aesthetic, and their lighting is no exception.

Specifically, Pottery Barn pendant lights have become a go-to for Aussie homeowners and designers looking to add a touch of timeless American style to their interiors. They are the perfect finishing touch, acting like a piece of jewellery that completes the whole outfit of a room.

What Defines the Pottery Barn Look?

Pottery Barn isn't about chasing fleeting, ultra-modern trends. Their style is rooted in classic designs that are built to last, both in quality and in looks. When you choose one of their pendants, you're generally getting:

  • Classic Silhouettes: Think elegant domes, classic lanterns, and beautifully crafted glass shades that won't look dated in a few years.
  • Quality Materials: You'll see a lot of high-quality glass, beautifully finished metals like bronze and polished nickel, and natural, textural materials.
  • Versatile Aesthetics: Their range is famous for fitting perfectly into some of Australia’s most popular design styles, including Hamptons, modern farmhouse, coastal, and classic traditional.

Popular Styles of Pottery Barn Pendant Lights

While their collection is always evolving, you'll often find a few signature styles that homeowners love:

  • Glass Dome Pendants: These are an absolute classic over a kitchen island. They provide brilliant, clear task lighting while maintaining a sense of openness. They are arguably the most iconic Pottery Barn pendant lights.
  • Lantern-Style Pendants: Perfect for an entryway or a dining space, these often feature a metal frame with glass panels, offering a touch of rustic or industrial charm.
  • Beaded or Woven Pendants: Tapping into the coastal and boho trends, these textural pendants add a relaxed, organic feel and cast a beautiful, patterned light.

How to Choose the Right Pendant for Your Space

  • For the Kitchen Island: A series of two or three of their famous glass pendants is a can't-go-wrong choice. Measure your island and follow the design rules for spacing to get a balanced, professional look.
  • For the Dining Room: A single, large, and more decorative pendant hung low over the dining table can create a stunning and intimate focal point.
  • For the Living Area or Bedroom: A softer, shaded pendant can provide a warm, ambient glow that makes the space feel cosy and inviting.

A Quick Note on Installation

A premium light fixture deserves a premium installation. Here in Australia, it is illegal and unsafe to perform your own electrical work. To protect the warranty of your beautiful new Pottery Barn pendant and ensure the safety of your home, you must hire a licensed Australian electrician for the installation.

The sophisticated look of a designer light is only as good as the professional installation that brings it to life. Your electrician ensures a safe and flawless result by using high-quality, compliant components for all the behind-the-scenes work. For all the essential, trade-quality gear that a professional installation demands—from the mounting hardware and ceiling roses to the dimmer switches and electrical cable—schnap across Australia rely on Schnap Electric Products. They supply the top-tier electrical components that guarantee your stunning new Pottery Barn pendant lights are not just a beautiful feature, but a safely and professionally installed fixture for years to come.