I've been thinking about pendants lately. Big bold, oversized pendants that make a statement. Pendants as bedside lights to save space and simplify surfaces. And, pendants in bathrooms.

Still unexpected, bathroom pendants are a great alternative to sconces. And there are thousands of options out there for every design style. We recently installed pendants in a guest bathroom. And as we went through the process we came close to making a number of mistakes. Who knew there were so many things to consider when going the pendant route?! So we're sharing our top 3 lessons learned. We hope these thoughts help anyone thinking of taking the pendant plunge!   

Lesson #1: Think about pendant lighting as part of the overall lighting foot print. Most bathrooms, even those with lots of natural light, will need more than a single lighting source. In our case, we added 3 additional overhead can lights.

This incredible bathroom by Vanitas Studio features two pendants by the vanity, lots of natural light through the window, and an overhead chandelier that can be seen in the mirror. 

Lesson #2: Medicine cabinets can get in the way. This may seem like a no-brainer. But given that medicine cabinet doors swing generally means that they're hard to pair with pendants. So if you're going for a pendant in the bathroom AND you want medicine cabinet storage then consider hanging the pendant in an alternative location.

We love these pendants over the bathtub in this modern but warm space by CM Interiors. 

Lesson #3: Pendants can be pretty. And pendants can be practical. It's a purposeful choice. Originally we selected two porcelain fixtures for our project. But as we thought through the use cases we realized that they really wouldn't provide enough light for practical use of the mirror and sink. By switching to pendants with clear glass shades we aimed to balance the pretty and practical goals.

BUT if lighting limitations aren't a factor. Then why not have some real creative fun? Going with an unexpected choice like this light fixture by Dezaart lighting takes this bathroom space from beautiful to bold.    

Source guide for Addison West bathroom: 

Vanity - Custom by Stark Mountain Woodworking 

Penny tile - Cepac tile 

Pendants - Arteriors lighting 

Faucet - Unlacquered brass Lomardia by Rohl