Ask Joe!
Welcome to the first installment of “Ask Joe!”. I am so excited about this. I love to answer design-related questions about the everyday challenges in home design; and working with Alluminare, questions are continually pouring in from people with design dilemmas. So let’s get into it!!!
“Dear Joe: I have an eat-in kitchen with a 4-person square table. Which size & style of pendant lamp should I get?”
First and foremost, I am a huge fan of a round shape over a square table. That round shape can take many forms (chandelier, cluster of small pendant lamps, globes, etc) but my personal favorite is the classic round drum shade.
A drum shade pendant may sound boring, but they are anything but! In today’s market you can make them virtually in any pattern, fabric and color imaginable. It’s a great way to add color and style to a space, especially a kitchen. Kitchens tend to not have much pattern, unless there are added window treatments or tile installations. It’s a great way to balance the trend towards super white kitchens, too.
Someone Needs A Drum!
For this client, a square dining table in perfectly offset with a centered round drum. There are a couple of variables in choosing size, however. Firstly, we don’t know the exact dimensions of the dining table. It could be a 24″ square cafe-style table or a 36″ or 48″ square table. These would all determine the size drum needed for the space. A larger table can support a larger shade, obviously; Secondly, we don’t know the size of the room. As the table is relatively small, I will assume it is not a overly huge kitchen (since a larger table would suggest an open eating and living area). Given both of these assumptions, my suggestion is to look at shades between 16” and 20″ in diameter. If your table falls on the smaller side of the options listed, go for the 16″; likewise, if you have the 48″ square table and a bit more open space, definitely look at the 20″ options. But my guess is that in almost all scenarios, the classic 18″ drum shade is the best option. It’s big, but not too big. it’s bold, but will not overpower the space.
An 18" Drum Pendant Over A 4 Person Dining Table
In the above photo, notice how the round shape softens the harsh lines of the rest of the space. The round shape ensures an even distribution of light over the table, and the splash of red (I added it using the Alluminare Design Your Own Shade tool) is eye-catching and provides a great contrast of color as well as a focal point.
Now that we have discussed width, height is also to be considered. Depending on your ceiling height and other existing light sources, you have height options between 10″ and 14″. Placement of the pendant (which should always be centered over a dining table) may affect which height to go with. I covered how high to hang the pendant in an earlier post, so I hope you find that information handy. It will give you reference points on overall height that may help you decide on the vertical span of the drum you eventually go with. Also, reference the post to see information on placement, diffusers and dimmers.
Beachy Celebrity Kitchens
We envy celebrity homes, and particularly the spectacular, spotless kitchens. Perhaps celebrity kitchens are often beachy and serene simply because they don’t get much use—after all, the paparazzi that stalk The Waverly Inn would be very disappointed if they all stayed home to cook! Let’s take a look at a few beachy celebrity kitchens.
Meg Ryan
Everyone loves Meg Ryan, so naturally we love her kitchen, too. Her Martha’s Vineyard home features rustic, exposed rafters, providing a framework for Meg to inject her own style, with some help from Marsha Russell of interior-design firm Satinwood. “I love what you might call brutal elegance,” Ryan told Elle Decor, “where form and function are really obvious.” Industrial pendant fixtures made by Historical Materialism float above a worn oak farmhouse table. Black cabinets contrast the white walls, and the Viking range is surely at the cusp of form meets function.
Photographer: William Waldron, elledecor.com
Sarah Jessica Parker & Mathew Broderick
This busy Hollywood couple needs a place to relax and decompress, and that’s exactly what they do while at their Bridgehampton, Long Island home. Parker worked with designer Eric Hughes to create a space that was full of light and color. Although bright, glossy red cabinets are unexpected in a Victorian farmhouse, that’s exactly what Parker wanted. They’re offset by the black and white floor tile and the cheery apple print, Uno le Mela by Enzo Mari from Moss.
Photographer: William Waldron, elledecor.com
Anna Olson
Although Anna Olson is from Atlanta, Georgia, she’s become a celebrity “food personality” in Canada on the Food Network. Even if you haven’t heard of Olson, you’re sure to envy her beachy, blue kitchen. The cookbook author and pastry chef blended several different styles in her kitchen design, specifically vintage meets industrial. It’s also very space-efficient and affordable, by celebrity terms. The 50-year old two-deck commercial pizza oven came from a local college where Olson’s chef husband teaches. Another retro touch is a pie fridge that serves a pantry. Open shelving set against cerulean blue walls is functional and expands the space.
househunting.ca
Julianne Moore
Even though her apartment is in the Meatpacking District of New York City, Julianne Moore’s kitchen is the epitome of beachy-chic. The home dates from the 1800’s, and exposed brick walls only add to the charm. MADE, a Brooklyn-based architecture firm is responsible for the restoration. Bright blue upholstery on the bar stools stands out against the patina and texture apparent in the rest of the space, and walls painted a sandy shade help to create balance.
apartmenttherapy.com
Jill Stuart
Another tranquil kitchen in the middle of the metropolis of NYC belongs to fashion designer Jill Stuart. Located in Phillip Johnson’s Urban Glass House in SoHo with an interior by architect Annabelle Seldorf, her penthouse apartment features 360 degree views of Manhattan. As if that isn’t enough to make you jealous, take a look at that cool, blue kitchen. Bulthaup cabinets gel with a wood-block print by Helen Frankenthaler.
Photographer: Simon Upton, elledecor.com
Even if you don’t have a celebrity-sized bank account, you can incorporate some of these beach-inspired moves in your own kitchen. Mix vintage with modern, and neutrals with bold colors. Maximize natural light. Admire your top-of-the-line kitchen appliances, which are so very clean and shiny, and then go out for dinner.
American Made : Sources for Kitchen Hardware
Think of kitchen hardware as the jewelry of the kitchen. Nothing else puts the finishing touch on a cabinet door more than beautiful hardware such as a lovely knob, handle or pull. Hardware enhances the character and style of a kitchen and is a simple, quick way to elevate this space. There are lots of hardware options out there with various styles and finishes to choose from but I especially love those that are American made by craftsmen and companies here in the states. There is something special and unique about using a forged, cast piece of bronze or steel that was created locally by an artisan versus mass produced somewhere unknown. Finding American made sources for hardware is no easy task. Although there are several American hardware manufacturers, only a handful design and manufacture their pieces here. Lucky for you, we did the research and sourcing for you! These three are my top choices for stunning and unique American made kitchen hardware. Ranging from traditional to modern and available in a multitude of shapes and finishes, these are great resources to have on hand for selecting kitchen cabinet hardware for your clients or your own home…..
Rocky Mountain Hardware Collections
Rocky Mountain Hardware offers a complete line of architectural handmade hardware. It is a family owned business in Idaho with a focus on environmental responsibility. RMH uses recycled material to create all of their bronze products! Using sand-cast and lost-wax processes, this company creates bronze hardware with various colors, textures, and lines to go with a wide range of styles. Rocky Mountain Hardware also offers custom capabilities so your imagination is the limit! Selling through dealers nationwide, you can visit their website to find a hardware showroom near you. A showroom in your area can provide pricing and any applicable designer or volume discounts. I’m also thrilled to discover that Rocky Mountain Hardware recently partnered with the famed Ted Boerner to create five stunning collections. My personal favorites are the “Shift”, “Tab” and “Bird” collections.
Ted Boerner for Rocky Mountain Hardware
Another fantastic source for American made kitchen hardware is Spectra Decor based in Seattle. Spectra Decor was founded by artist Leilani Norman-Young and has been hand making decorative hardware since 2001. I absolutely love that the pieces are handmade and sustainable using environmentally friendly and regionally sourced materials. Some of these materials include recycled glass and aluminum, cork eco-resin, fused glass, and lead free pewter and stainless steel. Customization is available through Spectra decor as well as a sample program to review prior to purchasing. Spectra Decor is available online through www.knobsandhardware.com and through various showrooms. Check out Spectra Decor’s website to locate a showroom near you. Designer discounts and volume discounts are available to the trade. Contact Spectra Decor for more information regarding special pricing.
Spectra Decor Sustainable Hardware
Colonial Bronze Co. is my third go to resource for kitchen hardware. Around since 1927, this Connecticut based company creates solid brass hardware with finishes guaranteed for life. Available in several finishes ranging from Copper and Chromes to Pewters and Dark Bronze, Colonial Bronze Co. manufactures a slew of styles to choose from. It offers customizing as well as a quick ship program with over 264 items for those fast track projects. Its website offers guidance on installation and measuring so it’s also a handy resource to ensure that the hardware is installed correctly per your specifications. Visit their website for information on showroom locations as well as their trade pricing. Here are some examples of their beautiful knobs and pulls below:
Colonial Bronze Company Selections
Kitchen hardware is a fun detail and having the right go to resources is key to a successful kitchen project. Using American made, hand forged hardware is even better! What a great way to introduce a beautiful artisan element to your kitchen. If you have additional American hardware resources, we would love to hear about them!
{Image Credits: Rocky Mountain Hardware, Spectra Decor, Colonial Bronze}
American Made: Sources for Dining Tables
Buy a new dining table from a major retailer and you’re likely getting a product that was manufactured out of the country, not to mention a carbon copy of the same table that sits in thousands of other people’s dining rooms. Even the furniture that falls into the category of “high design” is often made in Italy or somewhere equally as exotic. Did you know that there are plenty of unique, handmade designs right here in America? We take a look at five stand-out dining table designers.
Saloom
Peter Saloom began by making furniture in his father’s basement as a kid, and eventually he and wife Linda started their own furniture company. Based out of Winchendon, Massachusetts, Saloom creates a wide range of dining table styles, but we especially like the Criss Cross and the Bridge designs. Both tables are modern, but simple enough to fit with just about any decor. Glass topped tables are a great choice for smaller dining areas or shared dining and living spaces because they seem to disappear, making the space feel larger.
This Criss Cross features a 44″ X 72″ rectangular glass top on an angular, maple wood base with the “java” finish.
The Bridge also has a 44″ X 72″ rectangular glass top and a maple wood base, and in this case a clear finish. Other finish options are available for all of Saloom’s dining tables.
Wonk
Williamsburg, Brooklyn-based furniture company Wonk designs tables that are anything but wonky. In fact, their designs are as clean as they come. For example, the Nevins table has a simple black metal frame and a wood top with a rift white oak cross grain pattern. No fussy details here. It’s also adjustable and available with other wood tops and lacquer finishes. Did we mention it’s pretty affordable, at only $1195.00?
Wonk works with homeowners as well as architects and other design professionals. They focus on functionality and space-efficient solutions, appropriate for an NYC-based company. Visit Wonk’s showroom in person if you’re in the area, or you can order online throughout the US.
PD White
While many furniture makers are located on the East coast, the center of the country has its share of talented designers, too. Cleveland, Ohio-based PD White specializes in unique, custom wood furniture. Paul White has 20 years of experience under his belt, and his designs are not only conversation pieces, but also the result of in-depth conversations with his clients. He uses local, sustainable materials, typically trees removed by the city or a homeowner. You can’t get more custom than that.
The Cement Table is just as it sounds: a 3′ by 5′ chunk of cement sits atop a red oak frame, bound by exposed nuts and bolts. The table doesn’t look nearly as heavy as it probably is, and the rustic materials look fresh and modern in this clean and functional design. Can you believe the client only paid $850.00??
Not your conventional dining table, the Sushi Table was custom made for a photographer who wanted to sit “Japanese style.” At only one foot tall, the table provides a unique and low-to-the-ground dining experience, and the walnut wood top with an exposed, uneven natural edge provides plenty of character. White will adapt the table to fit customers needs for only $750.00.
Cherner Chair
Brothers Benjamin and Thomas brought their father Norman Cherner’s classic chair designs back into production. But Cherner doesn’t just make chairs; Benjamin also designs elegant dining tables in round, rectangular and oval shapes that are both strong and lightweight. They are comprised of cross-ply plywood and some have exposed edges while others are finished with edge bands. Wood finishes include classic walnut and clear beech as well as other custom options, all of which are water-based and low VOC. Products are available through dealers worldwide or directly through the website. 
Hudson Furniture
Of all the American dining table designers, we were most impressed with NYC-based Hudson Furniture. By coincidence, Joe Armenia also profiled them in his post on American furniture sources. Take a look at these two tables and you can see why were were so excited:
The Knight Base table features a handmade, cast bronze base with a Claro walnut top. It is available in custom sizes and finishes, like all Hudson pieces, and pricing is available by request.
This solid Claro walnut table bridges the gap between rustic and refined and can probably accommodate most of your friends.
Hudson’s designs exploit the natural characteristics of the wood and its grain, and the best word to sum them up is “organic.” On top of being incredibly chic, Hudson’s designs are made from sustainable word products, including 300 year-old trees salvaged from wind storms. Some designs even include petrified wood. Visit the NYC showroom in the hip Meatpacking District.
The (Mostly) White Kitchen
When it comes to kitchen colors, white wins the popularity contest hands down. Although it may seem counter-intuitive to prepare food against such a pristine color palette, white lends a look of cleanliness, crispness and sophistication. And it’s one of the most versatile colors: a white palette can look extremely contemporary, casual and country, or traditional and historically appropriate.
Since white reflects so much light, it not only makes your kitchen feel bright and cheery, but it can also make a small kitchen look much larger. The subtlety of white showcases contrasting textures or a pop of color, making it the perfect backdrop. However, white is anything but boring. We take a look at a few famous and non-famous mostly white kitchens.
Traditional White Kitchens
Fashion designers Mark Badgley and James Mischka chose mostly white with brass and black accents for their kitchen in Lexington, Kentucky. Clean subway tiles by Urban Archaeology contrast a vintage-inspired clock and pendant lamps for a look that is more timeless than trendy.
Designer Susan Dossetter and architect Andrew Skurman joined forces to create this kitchen in an Edwardian brick house circa 1905. Although it’s not the home’s original kitchen, it certainly looks as though it could have been! Skurman copied the original moldings in the home and commissioned period-appropriate rippled restoration glass for the cabinets. A farmhouse sink with old-fashioned faucets provides country appeal, offset by luxurious Calacatta Oro marble. An island was fashioned out of an antique English baker’s table.
House Beautiful’s 2007 Kitchen of the Year offers a slightly more modern take on the white country kitchen by pairing cutting edge appliances with an antique pendant and old-school hexagonal floor tile with black accents.
Modern White Kitchens
Is it possible to create a modern white kitchen within a historic brick building? Absolutely; this stunning kitchen combines clean white with stainless steel, exposed duct work and track lighting. Touches of gold lend a little warmth.
Hints of turquoise pop against a white backdrop and a strategically placed mirror furthers the expansive feeling of designers Melissa and Marc Palazzo’s modern kitchen in Orange County, California. Other colors that look dynamic when paired with white: lime green, orange, or red.
Cabinets are the most defining elements in a kitchen. When aiming for a mostly white look, there are many options when it comes to white kitchen cabinets. Painted white wood cabinets are traditional, but some may find the look a little on the dated side. Opt for lacquer cabinets for a sleek, modern look, such as these by Gorenje that seem more like furniture.
Tips for Designing Mostly White Kitchens
Charmed by the look of a mostly white kitchen? Before you tackle your remodeling project, evaluate whether the look is right for you and learn how to pull it off without a hitch:
- Mull over maintenance. White surfaces show every bit of dirt and wear, so be sure to choose durable, easy to clean materials. Also keep in mind that white surfaces can tarnish and yellow over time, especially when exposed to light. If you are a perfectionist or have small children at home, consider using shades of off-white rather than a totally pristine palette.
- Opt for off-white. While a pure white kitchen is dynamic, adding layers of color produces a more three-dimensional effect. Look for whites with undertones of gray, pink or yellow, and don’t worry too much about matching perfectly because it’s probably impossible! To coordinate hues, examine potential materials and colors under every type of light source: natural and artificial.
- Consider the context. Have you incorporated white into other rooms in your home? Especially if your kitchen is open to a living or dining area, it should flow with the context. Although a white kitchen as an anomaly within a home’s decor can be striking, a complete lack of transition might be too jolting.
- Try for texture. Successful white kitchen designs incorporate texture. If all the surfaces have nearly the same finish, the effect may fall flat. Try pairing white rough cut stone tiles, a subtly striped wallpaper and glossy cabinets, for example.
- Incorporate color! If you want to include color, stick with one or two accents for the most impact. Consider the balance between white and the accent colors, and decide whether you want your design to feel very proportioned or more asymmetrical.
- Avoid overload. There is such thing as “too much of a good thing,” so try adding warm wood or rustic tile floors, a dark stone or unexpected shade of Corian counter top and limit white to two large surfaces (the walls and the cabinets only, for example).
Though white kitchens have their drawbacks in terms of maintenance, their benefits far outweigh them. What other color looks so clean and provides such versatility when it comes to decor styles? You can rest assure that your white kitchen will still be in style years after your renovation is complete. Who said white is boring?
[Image sources: elledecor.com; homedesignfind.com; gorenje-oraito.com/]
Celebrity Kitchens Featuring Green
Kitchens are generally very active spaces, serving as the social and functional heart of a home. It comes as no surprise that several celebrities, what with their already hectic lives, have chosen to incorporate soothing green in their kitchen designs. Whether they have private chefs or are chefs in their own right, these celebrities’ green kitchens forgo Hollywood style in favor of earthy appeal.
Ina Garten’s Fresh Greens
The Barefoot Contessa not only possesses impressive skills in the kitchen, but her East Hampton home, which was published in House Beautiful magazine, features a kitchen to envy. Subtly striped olive green wallpaper sets off crisp white cabinets, topped with a black honed granite countertop. Charming black and white tile looks old-school beneath the modern Sub Zero fridge and 8-burner Viking stove where Garten whips up her delicious concoctions. She recently renovated an old barn on the property and began filming her show in a larger kitchen within this structure, so this green kitchen is now truly a cook’s private respite…or does she order take out when she’s off the clock?
Lance’s Luxurious Kitchen
A world-class cyclist and celebrity in his own right, Lance Armstrong’s kitchen features decidedly masculine details. Exposed beams, granite counters and stainless steel pendant lights complement the unique shade of smoky green-painted cabinets. A palette of browns, greens and golds spans many hues without being match-y, resulting in sophisticated layers of color. For such a luxurious kitchen, which has been featured in Architectural Digest, it is also family friendly—Armstrong shares the home with his three children—with a comfy banquette dining area and casual bar stools.
Big on Style: Kirstie Alley
Put all jokes aside that come to mind when “Kirstie” and “kitchen” are uttered in the same sentence. Alley’s kitchen walls feature a beautiful glazed diagonal tiled design with chocolate brown trim. Like Garten, she opted for the clean look of painted white cabinets against a black and white tiled floor. Designer Nate Berkus is responsible for the transformation of Alley’s kitchen, which was featured on an episode of Oprah. See the kitchen for yourself on her show Kirstie Alley’s Big Life…and stay tuned to find out if Alley can transform her body to match the sleek lines of her kitchen!
Green Rings Kristen’s Bell
There’s something to be said for keeping it simple. Veronica Mars star Kristen Bell accents her clean white kitchen with pops of green, including mossy carpet and fabric-covered stools with a complementary orange floral pattern. In keeping with the citrus theme, yellow accessories such as a bright tea kettle and a vase of daisies look just as cheery as Kristen does. She even coordinates her outfits to match her backdrop!
Charlie Sheen Green
Since he always seems to be embroiled in some scandal or another, Charlie Sheen no doubt enjoyed the respite of his spacious kitchen featuring crisp green cabinets. This cool color palette complements the design of the Mediterranean-style home in the Los Angeles neighborhood Los Feliz, where Sheen lived with his wife Brooke Mueller. Large windows bring the green of the outdoors in, and a cowhide rug injects a little whimsy.
Ready to Try Green in Your Kitchen?
It seems that most kitchens either feature a neutral color palette or a very warm one, such as tones of red, yellow or orange. Green is usually left to the living room, bath or bedroom. But think about it: cooking calls to mind vegetables and herbs. What color is more fresh than green? Also, as a cool color, green recedes into the background, making small kitchens appear larger.
If you’re after a modern look, consider shades of lime green or spring green that include a hint of yellow. How awesome are these funky, green lacquer cabinets?
However, if you tend towards the traditional or simply prefer your kitchen a little more low key, try painting your walls a deep olive or moss green. Also take a look at green glass tiles, which are especially beautiful when they contain a bit of variation in tone.
Some of these celebrity kitchens illustrate, green pairs well with black and white, but if you’d like to accent with another color, consider orange, brown, red or purple. Don’t go green with envy; choose one surface to make green—either your walls, cabinets or backsplash—to avoid adding too much of a good thing. And if you’re not quite ready to commit to this color scheme, try adding a few natural green accents such as a bowl of limes or green apples on your counter or a grouping of succulents in your kitchen window.
As overexposed as celebrities are in this world of gossip blogs and reality TV, we rarely get a glimpse into the more intimate spaces in their homes. These green kitchens probably won’t appear on MTV cribs anytime soon, but their serenity and sophistication is surely worth emulating.
[Image sources: apartmenttherapy.com, houselovely.blogspot.com, architecturaldigest.com, oprah.com, littlebluechairs.blogspot.com, hookedonhouses.net, alno.co.uk]
Jessica’s Vintage House – A Real Find For Sale
Picture Wisconsin: long drives through pastoral beauty, friendly people, and eclectic cities full of music and good food. Oh, and then there’s the polka—spend an idyllic Wisconsin summer evening under the stars dancing polka with your loved one and you’ll never want to leave. [Schmaltz noted.]
That’s the setting for Jessica Dennis’ beautiful home. Jessica is not only our PR executive, but she is also our customer. She was kind enough to send on pictures of her dining room light recently. She also mentioned that her home was for sale, but she was keeping the light for her new home. A serious compliment.
I had a chance to browse the pictures of her lovely home, and fell in love with her darling vintage Appleton Bungalow. I love the mix of old and new, and it is in beautiful shape. Built in the 1930s, renovated, and in a tree-lined Appleton neighborhood, this is, for me, an ideal home.
If you’re close to Appleton and are in the market for a home—or know of someone who is—take a look at Jessica’s full set of pictures here and here. If you’re lucky enough to buy it, go dance a polka under the stars to celebrate. [Again with the Schmaltz?]
Now, on to my favorite pictures of Jessica’s house:
Love the orange shutters and gray trim
Beautiful sitting area as well
Gorgeous Master Suite
A sweet and comfortable kitchen - the Green really works well! LOVE it!
Large Dining Room with phone nook (Our Pendant Light over Table)
Jessica designed her pendant light in Dinner Damask from Jules Davis. Jules is so talented, and the pendant light is just perfect. The mix of the modern shape, the nod to classic Damask, the inventiveness of Jules’ forks-and-spoons motif—everything works just perfectly in Jessica’s vintage-yet-contemporary home.
The details on Jessica’s Appleton, Wisconsin vintage home:
Taste the Rainbow: Colorful Kitchens
It’s no secret that we love color. Oh, there’s a lot to be said for a room filled with soothing neutral shades, but – let’s be honest – sometimes “neutral” just means “boring.” Color, on the other hand, is anything but boring. Whether it’s peaceful blues or raging-party-red, we’re all about the color.
We also happen to think that there’s no better space for color than the kitchen. After all, it’s the heart of the home, the space where all parties migrate. It deserves some color!
What we can’t decide, though, is which color is best in the kitchen. We love them all – and that’s why we’ve put together this collection of kitchens that spans all the color of the rainbow:
This kitchen is oh-so-glamorous, thanks to the sparkly chandelier and the glossy lipstick red of the cabinets:
Looks like a great place for lobster and champagne, right?
The bright orange walls – perfectly complemented by cool blue chairs – in the kitchen below call out for a casual party:
It’s perfectly fun and laid back – a great room for kids, too.
Speaking of fun, we love this yellow Arne Jacobson Egg chair:
It’s a great reminder, too, that color in the kitchen doesn’t have to be splashed on the walls or on the cabinets – it can be added. The addition doesn’t even have to be a fantastic (and expensive) vintage chair, either. We love injecting color in the kitchen via flowers, towels, or even a big bowl of fruit. Never underestimate the power of a bowl full of lemons, or perfect Granny Smith apples!
But if you are interested in splashing some paint on the walls, you could certainly do worse than this incredible shade of green:
That kitchen, from the late, great Domino magazine, is like a dream to us. It’s so clean and fun, but also absolutely realistic. It looks like a kitchen that sees some use – it’s definitely not a pristine space that never sees action.
Moving on down the rainbow, we’re in love with the bright ocean blue of this island:
The combination of blue with clear accessories is pure Atlantis, and the addition of a few orange pieces balances out the palette to create a space that’s beachy and refreshing, but also very modern.
Indigo is sometimes forgotten as a part of the rainbow, but it has really potential in the kitchen:
That space is fun and funky, but the color adds some sophistication, too.
Finally, for the end of the rainbow, we love this lavender space:
The white island and backsplash, stainless appliances, and wood floors keep the from looking oddly little girly. And we have to admit: We love that color.
So, which is your favorite? What don’t you like? And what color is your kitchen? (Ours is green with orange accents!)
[Photo Credits: Red and green kitchens from Houzz.com. Orange and purple kitchens from The Kitchn. Yellow, blue, and indigo kitchens from Elle Decor.]
How High to Hang a Pendant Over A Dining Table
A pendant lamp (or a cluster of them, or even a chandelier, if you are so inclined), centered above a dining table, is a multifunctional piece that serves many purposes. The light is as important as the guests and the food, so don’t leave anything to chance!
Besides providing a necessary focal point, the lamp can really set the tone of the room: is it formal? casual? transitional? Of course, its primary function of adding light will ultimately make or break the dinner party you are hosting for the new neighbors. It will certainly provide illumination, but it will also create a mood with it’s lighting: warm and inviting, dim and romantic, bright and friendly. All of these are things to consider when selecting a pendant or fixture.
2 Light Large Cylinder Pendant in Zebrano
All of this is for naught, of course, if it is not hung in the proper position. While design rules almost always function better when they are broken, there is a certain reasoning for a loose translation of the general rule of where to hang a pendant light. Oh – that “rule”, give or take, is approximately 30 inches (+ or – a couple) from the surface of the table.
Why the formality? A few reasons. If your pendant is hung too high, you will need to turn up the light significantly to light the table. By doing so, you have made a decidedly less intimate and cozy dining space. Light will be dispersed less directly on the table and more on the faces of those relatives you see only once at Thanksgiving. If your pendant is just too low, the space will feel crowded, and Aunt Myrna will be quite dim.
Here are a few things to think about when planning to hang your pendant.
- First and foremost, make sure it can be controlled with a dimmer switch. The switch can be bought at any hardware store and can be installed by almost anyone. This seemingly small step will ensure that your desired lighting mood can easily be set.
- The width and length of your table will help determine how high to hang it as well: a larger table can support a pendant being a bit higher, whereas a smaller table looks best with a lower-hung pendant.
- Do a test run. Set your table. Put out the candlesticks, maybe your favorite flowers in a vase as a centerpiece, etc. From there, measure the height. Make sure you have a few inches of clearance; the visual is as important as the function.
- If you do decide to hang your pendant on the higher side, please consider adding a diffuser to your order; otherwise, the lightbulb itself may become visible.
If the general guideline of approximately 30 inches is throwing you off, consider your home and it’s décor. I believe that contemporary spaces look great with a lower-hung pendant light. It creates a sense of intimacy looks great with contemporary, modern spaces. But if your room is large or has rather grand furnishings, slightly higher placement will ensure a visual impact from all sides.
Pendant With Drum Shade
As you will see in the photo above, the pendant hangs just a few inches above the centerpiece. This 24″ drum shade is a great scale for a medium/large table, and it’s placement is ideal for creating an intimate dining space.
As for what type of pendant to choose for your space, there are much more relaxed rules. Above all, keep scale and shape in mind. I prefer almost any shape pendant over a rectangular table…but I draw the line at any sharp lines over a rounded or oval table (i.e. no rectangular or square). The size of your table is also to be considered. By using Alluminare’s Design-Your-Own size guide, you can be on your way to determing the right shape and size for your room. After all, you already know where to hang it!
How to Choose Art for Over Your Sofa
Art is truly one of the most important elements in a space. It conveys the mood and overall feel of your home and lifestyle. Selecting art is an organic experience as pieces can and should be collected over time. And searching for that special piece can be tricky and overwhelming so a little planning should go in to the process to avoid purchasing ready made collections which can look too “matchy-matchy” and generic. Although art does not need to necessarily “coordinate” with your space in terms of colors and so forth, you should think about the feel and mood you are trying to achieve. Do you want a more formal look or something more energetic or laid back? You should have an emotional response to the piece or pieces you are acquiring for your home. Art is personal and an expression of your taste and style so purchase only the pieces that make you happy or elicit a reaction. When selecting art for a particular spot such as over a sofa, there are a couple of additional factors to consider.
First, you have so many options in terms of what to do with artwork for over your sofa. It’s all about being creative and using what you love. The art above your sofa will be the highlight in your living room so think about what you want the piece or arrangement to illustrate and go for it.
A Large Canvas Over Sofa Adds Drama
One option is to use an over-scaled canvas painting for drama. One large piece of artwork can really serve as a dramatic focal point for your living room. Allow for lots of space on either side, approx. 36” or more if possible, to intensify the drama and luxury by the abundant use of negative space. A large piece as a stretched canvas looks current and modern, while a framed piece with a crisp white mat looks tailored and timeless. Kit featured some great stretch canvas options a couple of weeks ago here on Alluminare. Or you can hang a large sculptural piece that provides both texture and color.
A Photo Series Above the Sofa Creates Rhythm
Multiple Rows of Coordinating Images and Matching Frames Create Symmetry & Order for A Formal Look
Another creative option is using a series of smaller framed photographs or illustrations to create a gallery overhead. Placing the artwork horizontally in a row helps create the illusion of more width on a wall over a sofa. This is a more traditional look but can still have a powerful affect by using a series of the same image or by using images that relate to one another. Use the same frame to create rhythm for a very high-end look. Stack multiple rows to create even more drama.
A Collage of Images in Varying Sizes and Shapes Create an Organic Vignette
Create interest by using a collage of frames in an asymmetrical pattern for an unexpected layout. Placing the various pieces of art in a cluster over the sofa is a more casual, organic approach. Place the larger pieces in the center and work outwards placing the smaller pieces on the outside of the arrangement to create focus to the layout. The combination of different images and frames make for a very exciting vignette above your sofa.
An Art Ledge Above Sofa Creates a Casual Display
Another casual approach is to hang a long shelf above the sofa to lean artwork against a wall. This is another laid back alternative to typical hanging arrangements. Include your favorite objects alongside the artwork to showcase your accessories and art together for a stunning display.
No matter which layout or pieces you choose, an important thing to remember is correct proportion. Aim for the width of the art piece or collection to be about 75% of the overall width of the sofa so that the art above is not dwarfed by the sofa below. Also, when hanging your large piece or collection, hang the art a minimum of 8 – 9 inches above the sofa to clear your heads while seating, or at about eye level.
Finally, another crucial component is to ensure that the art is well lit. Use an overhanging floor lamp or spotlight to add focus to the piece. Even an inexpensive poster or print can look expensive and high-end with the proper lighting.
With unlimited options, there are so many ways to add excitement to your sofa and living room. Go shopping at local art fairs, online art communities, auctions, thrift stores, or even create your own for the most custom look available. Use family photos and handmade drawings from the little ones to create a truly individual look for over your sofa. You just need to pick the style you like best and do it! If you have creative, unique ideas for selecting and hanging art for over your sofa, we would love to hear them!
[Image Credits: Living Etc., DecorPad, Gaita Interiors, Belle Maison]
