Easy-to-Customize Pendants Lend Vintage, Modern Look to Kitchen Reno
As many people discovered during the last 18 months, building or remodeling during a pandemic brings a whole new meaning to the word frustrating. Homeowners not only face delays on everything from furniture to cabinets but also labor shortages as electricians, plumbers, and other tradespeople struggle to keep up.
Nancy’s remodel of her kitchen began in the early stages of the pandemic. The project was extensive in that it was a complete remodel, but she stayed within the existing layout.
“The kitchen had to be modern, yet classic,” Nancy says. “Our home is pretty traditional, but modern elements in the kitchen are always a plus! Remodeling was challenging as lead times on cabinets and appliances were longer than usual.” Nancy maximized storage with traditional, white shaker cabinets that reach the ceiling, and she extended the island to six feet.
“I wanted the island to be a focal point so I selected a beautiful Dolce Vita granite,” she explains. “The modern elements are stainless steel appliances and a sleek, simple kitchen faucet.” To give the kitchen an organic touch, Nancy chose handmade iron pulls and knobs for the cabinets and, to tie everything together, she wanted black pendant lights over the island.
“It is very difficult to find American-made lighting so I was thrilled when I found Barn Light Electric,” she notes. “Their lighting offers classic, modern, and industrial designs.” Nancy found everything she wanted in the Kao Gladstone Pendant. She customized these two handcrafted pendant lights with 8″ shades, a porcelain enamel Black finish, and Black cotton twist cords.
“I like the Kao Gladstone Pendants because they are retro but have clean lines. They work with the eclectic feel I was going for,” she says. “I wanted to go with the 10″ shades but that would require moving an existing electrical box and ceiling patching. But I feel very comfortable with my decision. They look great!” Nancy also added a black socket with a knob switch and Victorian Edison light bulbs to the pendants.
“I wanted to keep the sleekness of the pendants but add more visual interest with the porcelain finish, the switches, and the twisted cord,” she explains. “The knob switch and bulbs keep the retro vibe.” With Barn Light’s customizing options, Nancy was able to create the exact look she wanted for her remodeled space.
“I love the fact that I could totally customize the lights. I know large pendants and mixing metals are very much in style right now, but I really wanted to capture a timeless look,” Nancy says. “Keeping the fixtures all black keeps the traditional yet modern look I was going for. I’m a very happy customer!”
Photos courtesy of the homeowner
