[lockburn]

So, I'm trying to design the lighting plan over my (not yet installed) 6 ft island with pendants.

I had originally planned on having 2 lights above the island, but the joists aren't cooperating. So, due to the joist locations, and the need to have the lights be symmetrical, I can install:

2 lights (11" from center each, so 22" between them)

or

2 lights (26" from center each, so 52" between them)

or

3 lights (1 in the center, the others 26" on either side).


Your thoughts?

I need a matching style pendant over my sink (36" cabinet). I was thinking a modern glass or brushed nickel pendant, not trhinking track lighting, but might be convinced to put the electrical boxes close together, and hang the pendants from hooks for 2 lights, each 18" from center.

Thanks!

[DesignDiva]

What is the island going to be used for? If you will have seating, I generally like to see the lighting farther from the seating so there is no glare. If it will all be workspace, then I would spread the light out with three lights. If you've got a sink there, you'll want lighting placed so you don't create a shadow on the dishes you're washing.

[lockburn]

There is no sink in the island, but it will be used for workspace and seating. I can pull the lights closer to the workspace side (farther from the seating area) without problem.

[GardenOfDarwin]

And you're NOT thinking of track for over the island either? There are some beautiful ones out there (although spendy), with options for pendants, spots, floods, etc. all on one track.

If you're not considering track for over the island, I'd go with the 3 lights and pull them further over the workspace...not sure what you mean about the hooks and pendants over the sink.

Susan

[lockburn]

Yeah, I think this requires another trek out to Home Depot or Lowes to take a look at their offerings. I like the contemporary look of pendants from the ceiling, rather than a track.

For the hooks, I mean that sometimes you >need< a light in a particular spot, a chandelier above the center of a dining table for example. If there is a joist right along the centerline, you can put the electrical box on either side, and install a hook into the beam, and hang the chandelier from the hook (thus keeping the center).

I have an open spot above my sink where I'd like to put a matching pendant.

Argh, the planning (for me) takes about 5 times longer than the actual work. Once the light placement is figured out, its a couple holes, wires, and viola!

[GardenOfDarwin]

Gotcha. I'd keep my mind open to the possibility of track/cable/rail lighting, unless you're truly violently opposed. There are some very nice, contemporary choices out there that look nothing like the tracks of old.



http://www.lightinguniverse.com/trac...ectSystem.aspx

Worth a look?

Susan

[inforapenny]

I just added the 3 pendant light track from Lowes. It's three pendants hanging off one track, available in black, white, and a metal finish. What I really like about this is that the shade part is easy to changeout if you want a different look.

[stillg10]

I really thought I wanted pendants over my small island, but my electrician son talked me out of them. Depending on where your island is (mine was looking out into the family room), they can block your vision when standing. He got me a track with four lights and I love it. The lights can be angled whichever way we want. We did put two pendants over the desk in the front window.

When I figure out how to post pictures, I'll show you.

[GardenOfDarwin]

Hey stillg10! In the Photos forum, you'll find this post, which should help you to post your pictures. If you have problems that aren't covered in that post, please feel free to contact me, or any of the moderators for assistance.

Susan