There’s a reason the warmth of farmhouse lighting keeps returning to modern interiors: it marries honest materials with time-tested silhouettes, delivering glow that feels both grounded and uplifting. In kitchens that crave character, porches that need weather-ready charm, and dining rooms that demand ambiance without fuss, this style earns its keep.
For a crafted, enduring approach, explore farmhouse lighting built for daily life and long stories.
What Defines the Look
Work-born silhouettes: barn shades, deep-bowl pendants, and gooseneck sconces.
Substance over ornament: steel bodies, robust arms, and purposeful hardware.
Finish that serves the form: matte, galvanized, or enamel-inspired coatings.
Light that’s useful first, beautiful always.
Our lights are hand spun out of 18 gauge steel, since only the strongest materials can be trusted to tell the strongest stories.
Room-by-Room Guidance
Kitchen
Island: 2–3 medium barn shades spaced evenly; aim for 60–75 lumens per square foot.
Sink: A single deep shade pendant to cut glare and focus the task zone.
Open shelves: Small wall sconces with directional beams for practical accenting.
Dining
Center a broad shade 30–36 inches above the tabletop.
Use dimmable warm LED (2700–3000K) to shift from weekday meals to weekend gatherings.
Entry and Porch
Choose wet-rated fixtures for uncovered areas; damp-rated for covered porches.
Galvanized or powder-coated finishes for high durability against the elements.
Bath and Vanity
Pair side sconces at eye level (about 60–66 inches) to reduce shadows.
Opt for high CRI LEDs for accurate color when grooming.
How to Choose the Right Fixture
Scale: Match diameter to space—12–14 inches for small nooks, 16–20 inches for islands, 20+ inches for vaulted rooms.
Beam Spread: Deep shades for task lighting; wider, shallower shades for ambient coverage.
Color Temperature: 2700–3000K for warmth; 3000–3500K for crisp kitchens and workspaces.
Dimming: Ensure fixture and bulb are compatible with your dimmer model.
Ratings: Look for damp/wet ratings outdoors or in steamy baths.
Maintenance: Smooth finishes wipe clean; textured coats hide fingerprints and minor wear.
Finishes That Work Hard
Matte black reads modern and anchors pale woods. Galvanized steel nods to farm utility and pairs well with concrete or brick. Deep greens, rich reds, or enamel whites bring heritage color without overwhelming the room. Whatever the palette, farmhouse lighting should look purposeful, not precious.
Design Pairings
Modern Farmhouse: Crisp black shades, straight-lines cabinetry, and warm oak accents.
Industrial Warmth: Galvanized shades with butcher block and aged leather.
Coastal Rustic: Soft white fixtures, linen textures, and sea-glass tones.
Historic Revival: Deep colors, shaker profiles, and unlacquered metal touches.
Care and Longevity
Dust weekly; wipe with a damp microfiber cloth and mild soap as needed.
Avoid abrasives to preserve coating integrity.
Use high-quality LEDs to reduce heat and extend fixture life.
FAQs
What size pendant works over a kitchen island?
Commonly 14–18 inches in diameter. For longer islands, use two or three pendants spaced 24–30 inches apart.
Are these fixtures suitable for outdoors?
Yes—choose damp-rated for covered porches and wet-rated for fully exposed locations.
Which bulb type is best?
Warm white dimmable LEDs (2700–3000K) provide efficiency, long life, and that inviting farmhouse glow.
How high should I hang a dining pendant?
Typically 30–36 inches above the table surface to avoid glare while maintaining intimacy.
Can I mix finishes in one space?
Yes—anchor with one dominant finish (e.g., matte black) and add a secondary accent (e.g., galvanized) in smaller doses for cohesion.
Whether you’re outfitting a busy kitchen or softening a front stoop, farmhouse lighting brings honest character, durable materials, and everyday performance that never feels out of style.
