Modern
Pendant
lighting

Pendant Light FAQ

• What are pendant lights?

  Pendants are lights that hang from the ceiling, usually, from wires, links or bars mounted perpendicular to the ceiling.

  These types of fixtures are different from surface-mount lights that mount directly on the ceiling and recessed lights that are embedded into the ceiling.

  Are pendant lighting and suspension lighting the same type of light fixture?

  Yes. Both pendant and suspension refer to light fixtures that hang from the ceiling. The terms can be used interchangeably.

  Do pendants provide uplighting or downlighting?

  This depends on the type of fixture. Linear, ring and rectangular pendant lights often provide both downlighting for task-oriented spaces, as well as uplighting for an architectural design accent. Cylinder pendants are typically downlights.

  What is indirect lighting?

  Indirect lighting directs the light from the bulb towards another surface to minimize glare. With indirect pendants, the LED bulbs are aimed at the ceiling or at a reflector mounted inside the housing of the fixture.

• Is indirect lighting the same thing as uplighting?

  No. Uplighting is still direct lighting. LED bulbs are aimed at the ceiling. Indirect lighting can be used in downlighting or uplighting. In both cases, the light is directed at a reflective surface inside the light fixture to provide softer lighting and minimize glare.

  What are common applications for suspension lights?

  Suspension lights are commonly used in commercial architecture for offices, including conference rooms and reception areas. They are prominent in hospitality spaces for lobbies and dining rooms. You may see pedants that provide indirect lighting used in classrooms since the fixtures help minimize glare.