Functional, expressive, and modernist, glass pendant lights make a mark no matter where they are mounted. Whether pared down to their most elemental forms or dressed up with brass and beading, these fixtures both illuminate and elevate. In this curated collection from the Laura U Design Collective archives, we present seven distinct interpretations of glass pendant lighting—each one carefully selected not only for its form and finish, but also for how it interacts with the architecture, palette, and purpose of the room it inhabits.
What’s the Difference Between a Pendant and a Chandelier?
Though often mistaken for one another, pendant lights and chandeliers are quite different—both functionally and aesthetically.
A pendant light is typically a single light fixture suspended from the ceiling by a cord, rod, or chain. Most pendant lights are vertically oriented with a contained form, meaning that while they might have multiple bulbs or design elements, they are relatively compact.
Pendants are most commonly found hovering above kitchen islands, softening seating areas, or punctuating long corridors with pools of light. Add a single pendant to your space or arrange in multiples; use them as you wish!
By contrast, a chandelier is inherently more layered and architectural. Often with branching arms, multiple individual lights, and more ornate detailing, chandeliers command attention while casting a warm, diffused glow throughout the room. Some chandeliers are sleeker and more modern, but they typically retain a more horizontal orientation and full form.
Seven Glass Pendants from the LUDC Archives
#1 The Frosted Pendant Lights in River Oaks Modern’s Primary Bedroom
With its playful cluster of frosted glass globes and aged brass accents, the Brielle pendant by Hudson Valley Lighting adds both sculptural interest and softness to the River Oaks Modern primary suite. Suspended beside the bed in place of a traditional table lamp, the pendant feels unexpected and a bit surreal, with its spherical forms echoing the plush textures and curved silhouettes found throughout this space.
Find the glass pendant here.
#2 The Glass and Bronze Pseudo-Sconces in Highland Village Contemporary’s Powder
Framed by a romantic chinoiserie wallpaper composed of botanicals and birds, the Quando pendant from Visual Comfort floats like a halo. Its warm hand-rubbed antique brass and white opal glass silhouette contrasts beautifully against the whimsical greens and florals
A quiet counterpoint to the room’s maximalist charm, this piece evokes the Art Deco period: refined, symmetrical, and sculptural. It is both bold and delightfully simple, the perfect fit for Highland Village Contemporary‘s powder.
Find the glass pendant here.
#3 The Black and White Orb in Huntwick Forest’s Foyer
A striking balance of old-world charm and Mid-Century Modern industrialism, this milk glass globe pendant in Huntwick Forest’s entry hall sets the tone for the rest of this transitional home. Suspended by a trio of blackened iron chains, the fixture’s monochrome palette mirrors the staircase’s wrought iron railing while the smooth, luminous glass softens the foyer’s tailored architectural paneling.
While we couldn’t find this exact piece through Visual Comfort, similar items are available via 1stDibs—with both striated and smooth glass styles. Find alternative pendant lights here.
#4 These Silver and Alabaster Pendant Lights in Braeswood Place’s Primary
In Braeswood Place, a pair of Melange elongated pendants from Visual Comfort hover gracefully on either side of the bed, framed by a subtle geometric wallpaper and grounded by dark wood nightstands. Materials selected for these pendant lights feel luxurious yet elemental. The alabaster shades radiate a delicate, natural glow, while their cool tones complement a palette of white, indigo, and pewter.
Find the glass pendant here.
#5 The Wicker and Glass Pendant Light in Sandalwood Contemporary’s Living Space
Unexpected and effortlessly chic, the Levene pendant from Corbett Lighting wows in Sandalwood Contemporary’s airy, textural living room. Its woven wicker canopy undulates like a sunhat, casting dappled shadows and lending an earthy, organic counterbalance to the modular sofa’s clean lines and contemporary art’s punchy color palette.
Find it here through Hudson Valley Lighting Group.
#6 These “String of Pearl” Pendant Lights at Garden Oaks
At once minimal and artful, these Orbet pendants by Visual Comfort punctuate the space above a double vanity in Garden Oaks. Each globe a luminous pearl bead fashioned from milky glass, these pendants capture and diffuse light with a soft sheen. They echo the tranquil, spa-like atmosphere of the bathroom while balancing the sharp geometry of the marble and wood cabinetry.
Find the pendants here.
#7 These Crisp and Clear Pendant Lights in Colonial Drive’s Kitchen
Hovering above the central island like a set of suspended lanterns, the Julian pendants in Colonial Drive’s kitchen are bold enough to lend texture and shine but sleek and transparent enough to retain the transitional feel of this interior. With clear glass shades, natural brass details, and supple saddle leather straps, these fixtures elevate the otherwise classic cabinetry and millwork.
Find them here.
Select the Perfect Pendant Lights for Your Interior with LUDC
Selecting the perfect pendant light requires close attention to balance, scale, mood, and how that piece will live within an interior. Designers bring not only a deep knowledge of materials and proportions, but also an understanding of the emotional tone lighting can set.
At Laura U Design Collective, we curate rather than simply installing. Whether you’re drawn to a glowing orb, a sculptural silhouette, or a layered composition, our team will help you find a piece that presents your space in “it’s best light.”
