How High Should Pendant Lights Hang Over Kitchen Bar?

Kitchens require task lighting as well as accent lighting.

Low Lights

Hanging pendant lights must be at least 2 feet off of the surface of the kitchen bar. So, a pendant light should be at least 5 feet 6 inches above the finished floor, which is 2 feet above a standard bar height of 42 inches. If the surface is higher or lower, the lights should be adjusted accordingly.

Lines of Sight

Lights should be out of people's line of sight. The glare from the hanging pendant lights can affect the ability to see. So a standard pendant light of 5 feet 6 inches above the finished floor is much too low and will impede the use of the kitchen. A light height of 6 feet 8 inches above the finished floor is out of the way and lines up with many standard elements, including door frames and many cabinets.

Bottom Line

Pendant lights are for both illumination and ornament. Although a light height of 5 feet 6 inches is effective for viewing the light fixture, a height of 6 feet 8 inches is much more practical and will not affect the use of the kitchen bar.

References

• "Architectural Graphic Standards"; American Institute of Architects; 2007.