Pendant Track Lighting

Versatility Increases Functionality

Track lights are so much more than a metal bar with large light cylinders hung every few feet. Homeowners now have tremendous versatility in track selection, plus you can change light heads as needed to fit function and design preferences.

Newer track models allow light placement almost anywhere along the rail, although if you’re concerned about energy efficiency, the fewer lights used to cover an expanse, the better.

Decorators recommend pendant track lighting for a number of different functions, including:

• Countertop or bar lighting in a kitchen or bathroom
• Making pools of light over a designated workspace
• Accent lighting for artwork or collections
• “Wall glazing” for dramatic effect in a foyer or great room

Types of Pendants

There is virtually no limit to the styles of pendants available for track systems.

• If you like the softness of silk, consider what a beautiful glow a colored fabric pendant will cast hanging from a monorail system.
• Enhance the features of your modern home with bright halogen light infused through a Swarovski crystal.
• Change the spotlight whenever needed with a light that is also art.
• Make a statement with the fine lines of a clear glass pendant.

Before you make a selection, sit in the room and assess your lighting needs. There’s a big difference between choosing a row of pendants to highlight a dining table and picking lights to increase the overall illumination in a room. First, think about the conversation areas, the task lighting needed above a workplace, and lastly, the statement that you want to make.

Next, jot all this down on paper, take wall and ceiling measurements, and have your color swatches handy. Being prepared like this will help you choose the right track channel layout, and from that you can select pendants.

Pendant Track Lighting Tips

• Some pendants hang from a cord, others from a wire system, and still others extend on a retractable stem of varying lengths, from three inches to 25 inches.
• Tracks are available in a variety of layouts, based on the room dimensions, including:

Straight run – a regular linear track

90-degree flex connector – especially good for vaulted ceilings

Cross layout sectional – best for covering a large ceiling

“T” layout – for focused lighting

Grid design – provides measured pockets of light

• For sloped ceilings, suspend the track channels from cables, and use smaller pendant light heads.
• Most pendant lighting kits have corresponding light heads and channels. It’s important to choose pieces that match the kit for proper fit and power transfer.
• Some track systems support line voltage pendant setups of 120 volts without a power transformer. However, most track lighting kits operate on 12 or 24 volts supplied by a transformer.

Buy Pendant Tracks Online

There are a number of outlets for buying pendant track lights online, which makes it easy to compare options and systems ahead of time and establish a budget.

• Lighting Universe has a considerable assortment of pendants and other attractive heads for track systems.
• You can also get new ideas visiting Light Waves Concept, as many of their manufacturer’s products are presented in a photo gallery.
• Ylighting is an ideal resource for contemporary homeowners, especially those in renovated lofts wanting a dynamic new look.
• Form Plus Function has a wide selection of systems and heads, plus a helpful guide to determining your power needs.

All these companies also offer free shipping within the continental United States after a certain price point is met, making it easy to bring items home for consideration.