Lighting is a crucial element in any space from the standpoint of functionality; getting the layers of lighting right can be the difference between a bright, well used room and one that just doesn't cut it. But lighting also plays an important role visually, a little bit like the correct jewelry for a favorite outfit, sometimes subtle (hoop earrings) and sometimes the showstopper (a statement necklace.) Lucky for us there are thousands of options and hundreds of websites and stores from which to purchase, but therein lies the problem, how to choose! Since most of us are on a budget, and the costs for even the most inexpensive fixture can add up when multiples are needed, I have been exploring the web in search of inexpensive, high style lighting (check out my guides to flush mounts and semi-flush mounts.)
Today I share a dozen of my picks for small pendant lighting, much used in kitchens (over islands, peninsulas and sinks) but also in bathrooms over vanities and hallways with tall ceilings. Every fixture is under $100 and work with a variety of styles from traditional to industrial and everything in-between. Some are fabulous right out of the box and others would make for interesting DIY projects. I am picturing the first brass number all dolled up with a little Rub N Buff to tone down the finish...
There are many great sources for finding inexpensive lighting. I typically go right to Home Depot, (or Lowes if you have one in your area) Home Decorators and Lamps Plus. West Elm, Ballard Design and Pottery Barn are also great resources. If you are searching for something more unique, you may have luck on Craigslist, Ebay or even at your local thrift shops. The key thing is, you don't have to scrimp on style just because you have a budget, take the time to find what you love and make it work for you.
What are your favorite inexpensive light fixtures and sources?
We had a stunning, sunny Winter week-end here in Madison complete with a moonlight snowshoe with friends on Friday night and more fun on showshoes yesterday. More snow is in the forecast here tonight and tomorrow, another 6-8 inches... Good thing I like playing in the snow.... I might just be ready for signs of Spring after this storm passes......
Have a great week, I can't wait for you to come back Wednesday when I share the progress my CSIL has made on her Dining Room....!!!!
Does your room need a “prescription” for a change of decor, function or design? If so please contact me, I would love to help your room feel better with a Room Rx
13 comments:
thank you for this!!! we hope to redo our kitchen in the next couple years and this is a great source of info!
Moonlight snowshoe, how fun, I need to suggest that to our group before winter is over!
I'm loving the lighting selection at Home Depot lately, (and these posts) and great prices, too! Than
Cathy, you are killin' it with these lighting round-ups! I have pinned them all and I love the budget friendly options you're sourcing for me! xo
Wow, Cathy. You are throwing my morning schedule off because now I have to pin these! Haha. Also pays to check o.co frequently. You just never know what's going to show up there!
www.chattafabulous.blogspot.com
These are fantastic Cathy - thank you for this excellent resource. I'm sure I'll be browsing a few of these options whenever we settle into a new house. And good for you for getting out in that snow - a moonlight snowshoe sounds like fun.
What a great roundup! The orb pendant is calling my name.
Cathy, this is such an awesome round up! I am so in love with the first three and really like your idea about rub n' buff for the first one - I never think about things like that when I'm shopping new. For some reason I can get creative with things I buy second hand, but have a really hard time modifying new purchases. I'm working on it :).
Hi Cathy - I met you briefly at Jesse Gordon's wedding. Helping a friend update his kitchen and we have been looking for lights. I loved #11 but the link went to #10 - where is that one from? Thanks, Lauren (Lauren.Passilla@gmail.com)
Thankfully, almost all of the snow has melted here. I love your lighting roundups. You find ones that I have never seen. I am about to give a CL fixture a makeover. You are right about it not needing to be expensive.
We recently purchased some lights very similar to the globes at the bottom! The only problem we're having is finding reliable electricians who can put in the new wire and hang them.
Lauren, thanks for stopping by! Sorry about the links, I've gotten them corrected, the light you are interested in is from Home Depot.
Nice pendant lights selection. For me, the best is the 75 $ and the 59 $ one. looks modern with vintage accent. Really nice.
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