Statement lighting makes any room a work of art. It’s an excellent way of letting your signature style shine without being overbearing. Anyway, no matter how avant-garde or out of the ordinary your preferred fixture may be, you can still use it to pour brightness over your space!
Although many are gushing over the aesthetic wall lamps and the ever-changing desk and floor lamps, chandeliers and pendant lights are still the most sought-after statement lighting for years. They have some of the most intricate designs and most elaborate constructions; that’s why everyone just wants to have a slice of that cake even if it’s nearly impossible to fit in their home!
However, how do you distinguish between a chandelier and a pendant light? Both have nearly the same qualities, and it can be confusing to identify which one is which. Are they really the same thing? If not, how different are they?
What are a pendant light and a chandelier?
Before anything else, it’s easier for you to understand the difference if you know the definition of a chandelier and a pendant light.
A chandelier is a lighting fixture that’s suspended from the ceiling. It’s designed with multiple light bulbs incorporated into a single fixture. On the other hand, while a pendant lamp is also a lighting fixture that’s suspended from the ceiling, instead of multiple bulbs, it only houses a single bulb.
What are the main differences between a pendant light and a chandelier?
Now that you have an idea of the definition between the two, it’s time to know the key differences that sets them apart.
Cost
When you’re out shopping for a chandelier or pendant light, you’ll notice that chandelier is relatively more expensive than pendant lamps. If you compare their price point, you’ll see that chandeliers have more digits and sometimes double the amount you will pay for a pendant light. Although, chandeliers in a higher price rage more for larger spaces than for domestic use. Those that you see at home are less expensive and more reasonable.
Suspension
If not through the tag, another easy to spot the difference between the two is through the way they are suspended. Chandeliers will most likely hang from a chain to support the weight of their branching parts. The traditional look of this light is modelled after the historical chandeliers that used candlesticks.
Alternatively, pendant lights are often dangled by a plain cord or chain and have a single hanging lamp at the terminal end. Sometimes, you’ll see a few lights in the pendant light, but the suspension remains the same.
In addition, when installing chandeliers, it’s not recommended to do it by yourself. You need to hire a professional to safely mount it into your ceiling. It’s better to eliminate any chances of your statement lighting causing injuries instead of beautifying your space.
Style
One look, and you’ll see that pendant lamps are simpler than a chandelier. However, that does not make them less attractive. As you go up to the higher price points, you’ll see pendant lamps that are more ornate and artistic. Though, most people who prefer pendant lamps are captivated by their clean and simple design.
In contrast, by nature, chandeliers are known for their sophisticated and magnificent craftsmanship, so more straightforward and more functional looks are less heard of. These fixtures are more for showcase rather than an intimate and cosy ambient light. This is why you’ll see chandeliers in more public rooms like the living room or dining area most of the time.
What are the usual materials used for pendant lights and chandeliers?
Chandeliers are designed with a smaller range of materials. Usually, they’re made of wrought iron, bronze, steel, glass, and crystal. These things are pretty heavy; that is why you’ll see chandeliers hanged using a chain.
On the flip side, pendant lamps use a more comprehensive range of materials. Some include nickel, tiffany glass, brushed steel, lampshades, stained glass, blown glass, rattan, bronze, etc. Because some of the materials are not that heavy, pendant lamps are safe even if they are suspended using a cord.
When do you choose a pendant lamp or a chandelier?
All the talk about statement lighting, pendant lamps, and chandeliers may get you all excited. However, you cannot rush to the nearest lighting store just yet! Chandeliers and pendant lights are different, and they have their own purposes. So, how do you know when to use a chandelier or a pendant lamp?
Choose a chandelier if you want to illuminate your room, like the dining or living room. It has more bulbs, so it’s expected to shine brighter. For your kitchen land, it’s better to use a pendant lamp for more direct lighting. In addition, chandeliers go well with an adventurous design theme, while pendant lights are perfect for subtle pools of lighting at specific parts of a room.
Now that you know the difference between chandeliers and pendant lights, it’ll be easier for you to shop. So, if you need a high-quality lighting solution, you can visit our website, Simple Lighting! We have other types of indoor, outdoor, and commercial lights that you will surely like!
