Kitchen lighting works best in layers: bright ambient light overhead, focused task light over counters, and decorative fixtures that give the room character. Shop island pendants, flush and semi-flush mounts, linear chandeliers, track and under-cabinet lighting from more than 60 brands, in finishes that match your cabinet hardware and faucets.
Start by thinking about how you use the room. A busy family kitchen needs brighter, even light for homework and meal prep, while an open-plan space may call for dimmable fixtures that dial down for evening entertaining. Choose a colour temperature of 2700K to 3000K for a warm feel, or 3500K to 4000K for a crisper, more modern look.
Over an island, pendants should hang about 30 to 36 inches above the countertop. Our guides on hanging pendants over a kitchen island and perfect kitchen lighting walk through spacing, size and brightness. Lighting specialists since 1996, with price matching and free shipping across Canada from $199. Visit our showroom at 113, 829 10th Street, Canmore, AB.
Frequently asked questions
How far apart should island pendants be?
Space pendants about 24 to 30 inches apart, measured centre to centre, and keep at least 6 inches from each end of the island so they do not overhang the edge.
How many pendants do I need over my island?
Two pendants suit islands up to about 5 feet, three suit 6 to 8 feet, and longer islands may need four or a linear fixture. Larger pendants mean fewer fixtures.
How high should pendants hang over the island?
Hang them 30 to 36 inches above the countertop, which keeps sight lines open while lighting the surface. Raise them 3 to 6 inches if your ceiling is over 9 feet.
What brightness do I need in a kitchen?
Plan roughly 30 to 40 lumens per square foot overall, with brighter task light over prep areas. Dimmers let you switch from cooking to dining mood easily.
