I'm seriously struggling with my own design dilemma and I need some outside, unbiased opinions on what we should do about our kitchen lighting situation. Let me talk it out and maybe it will lead to a GD decision because we have been hemming and hawing over this for close to a year.

You'd think that since I do this for a living these decisions wouldn't be so laborious, but in fact, I find it harder to pull the trigger on design pieces for my own home. I think a big part of it is because we're spending our own money, which hurts. Some may say I'm cheap, I say I'm financially cautious. More likely its a commitment issue, an ongoing theme in my life. I'm on the look out for amazing fixtures for other people's homes every day so I see what's out there and its all so good! I don't want to regret my decision so I'm always looking over my shoulder for the next best thing to pop on the scene. I don't wanna miss out on something more beautiful or for a better deal. WTF, its kind of like dating, Ew.

No wait, its probably such a struggle because my better half slows me down and picks apart every option I present. He's a speed bump but he makes really valid points which frustrates the hell out of me, but is also why I love him so.

Either way, our goal in our modern kitchen lighting hunt is to fill the empty vertical space in the most thoughtful way possible. Perhaps with something sleek and sculptural yet minimal, something that we won't grow tired of in five years, that potential new owners will love just as much as we do, that really compliments the space and creates a warm inviting aura, for ideally under a thousand dollars. Easy, riiiiight?

Here are a few kitchens that have been my inspiration througout this design journey. 

 So we have an open concept modern kitchen with really high ceilings, which I love and is one of the main reasons we bought the place. The recessed lighting is great and all but we want something a little more dramatic, but still minimal, in the one space we spend 98% of our time. Ambience is soo important in setting the mood and since we like to entertain a lot, and I like to be seen in good lighting a lot, this fixture has to be perfecto.

Here is the bare space, don't mind the stupid dog, he loves the camera:

 I'm really feeling a branching or mobile style chandelier over the island. I'd like something with some spread, with round bulbs, in maybe an aged brass or matte black finish. I'm thinking it is best suited centered in the kitchen area since the stairway kind of off sets everything a bit. I know this style chandelier is everywhere but the fact that I still like seeing it makes me feel like its a lighting trend that I can live with for a while.

Here are a few of the contenders:

1. Prism or the vortex- a little mid century, a little clean modern, feeling the black and brass mix and the size seems perfect for our small island.

2. Reef Branch- Asymetrical and a little more organic in its formation, but still modern. Overall a cool statement piece.

3. Mobile- serious stretch, clean lines and a pretty starburst kind of vibe. Maybe a little strong in the space but still up for consideration. 

In true mid century style I'm also feeling two globe pendant lights over the island. Classic, simple, and understated. Again centered in the kitchen to be enjoyed while cooking, informal eating and pretty to stare at while on the sofa across the way.

These are two that I'm digging. Definitely into the white glass as opposed to the clear glass which seems too tradish for me. Love the brass finish but could also be pretty in a matte black.

 Luna Pendant or Cedar and Moss

A third idea I had, staying with over the island, are a pair of small exposed bulb, metal canopy pedants. This will bring in the glow and highlight the height of the ceilings but in a chic, simple, architectural way that could really just be the tiny cherry on top this kitchen ultimately needs. Patrick says they're dinky and may not be the drama we were looking for but still an option that needed to be explored. 

These two are just perfection:

1.  Workstead

2. Modern Pendant

A final option is the chandelier over the dining table, something strong and masculine, maybe tiered and linear with a modern metal finish. A fixture would be nice over here for when we work and entertain larger groups for sit downs at the table but I'm not convinced it is best served here. It does however balance the weight of the kitchen and fills the void of the stairs a bit. Hmmmmm.  

Check out these two that I'm feeling:

1. Illuminate Vintage- I love this guy. I love the cone shaped shades and the bulbs peaking out past them. I like the linear style while still giving some spread and drama.

2.  Reef Branch- any of the other chandelier options could work over here but this one is the front runner.

3. Park Studio- this gives us the sleekness we're after and has some great height, and the brass tons it down a bit. I like it.

Ugh, just when I thought I had my mind set on the island chandelier I'm really liking the options for over the dining table. I think the minimal pendants are out, Patricks right, not enough impact. Damn him and his rationale! Let us sleep on this and be sure I will give you updates when the final choice has been made.