Hanging pendant lights or chandeliers at the proper height can dramatically affect the way your room feels overall. Hanging lights too high shines a downcast light and makes everyone sitting in that space feeling drab! Having the lights at a proper height can illuminate your guests and surroundings, leaving everything feeling cozy and looking their best!
DINING ROOM:
The general rule of thumb for hanging lights above your dining table is approximately 30-36" above your table. Depending on your ceiling height you might want to play around with the scale a few inches here and there. Also, consider the scale of the light itself, if it's a larger fixture you might need to raise it up a few inches.
KITCHEN ISLAND:
For pendants above an island, you will want them slightly higher if your island is being used for a place where people will be standing around the island. Hang your pendants at approximately 36-40" above kitchen counter height. If your lighting isn’t going to be in anyone’s face you can drop it anywhere from 30-36" from the counter.
Note: these are general rules; depending on your ceiling height & light fixture, the height you hang your fixture may be different in every space.