Murano pendant vs. ceiling lamp: Which light suits your room?
You have decided on a Murano lamp – but should it be a pendant or a plafond? This is one of the most common questions we get at Vetro. Both types are hand-blown in the same beautiful colors and patterns, but they function differently in a room. Here we help you choose the right one.
What’s the difference?
Pendant (ceiling lamp with suspension)
A pendant hangs down from the ceiling by a cord or chain. It creates a focused point of light and serves as the room’s visual anchor. The pendant’s position can be adjusted in height, giving flexibility.
Vetro’s pendants are available in three sizes:
Plafond (ceiling-mounted lamp)
A plafond sits directly against the ceiling or only a few centimeters away. It provides a more diffuse, spread light and occupies minimal visual space. Ideal for rooms where pendants aren’t practical.
When should you choose a pendant?
A Murano pendant is the right choice when:
The ceiling height allows it
You need a minimum ceiling height of 250 cm to hang a pendant comfortably over a table (60–70 cm from the tabletop to the bottom of the lamp + lamp size + distance to the ceiling). For a free-hanging fixture, the bottom of the lamp should be at least 210 cm above the floor.
You have a natural focal point
Pendants work best when they have an “anchor” beneath them:
- Dining table
- Kitchen island
- Coffee table
- A side table or nightstand
You want drama
A pendant hung at eye level grabs attention. It’s a natural conversation starter and gives a room personality. Especially the large Candy pendants (Ø40 cm) in vibrant colors are showstoppers.
You want to group lights
Two or three pendants clustered or lined up are one of the most effective ways to use Murano lamps. Over a long dining table or in a stairwell, grouped pendants create a spectacular visual flow.
When should you choose a plafond?
A Murano plafond is the right choice when:
The ceiling is low
In rooms with ceiling heights under 240 cm – typically in older apartments, basements, or bathrooms – a pendant is often impractical. Here the plafond is the perfect alternative. You get the same beautiful glass and colors without the lamp getting in the way.
The room is narrow or functional
In hallways, entryways, bathrooms, and closets a plafond is more practical than a pendant. It provides good light without taking up space, and there’s no risk of bumping your head.
You want even, spread light
Plafonds distribute light more evenly in a room compared to pendants, which focus light downward. If you need general illumination rather than a focused light point, the plafond is ideal.
The lamp is a supplement, not the focal point
If your Murano lamp is meant to supplement other lighting – for example in a room that already has a central chandelier – a plafond is an elegant, discreet choice that adds color and character without competing.
Comparison: Pendant vs. plafond
| Pendant | Plafond | |
|---|---|---|
| Ceiling height requirement | Min. 250 cm recommended | All ceiling heights |
| Light distribution | Focused, downward | Even, spread |
| Visual impact | Dramatic, eye-catching | Elegant, discreet |
| Best for | Dining table, kitchen island, living room | Hallway, bathroom, low ceilings, bedroom |
| Combination | Fantastic in groups | Best individually |
| Adjustability | Height adjustable | Fixed mounted |
| Installation | Standard ceiling outlet | Screws directly into ceiling |
Can you combine both?
Absolutely – and we highly recommend it. A popular setup is, for example:
- Dining room: A large Candy pendant over the table + a plafond in the hallway outside in a matching color
- Bedroom: A plafond for general lighting + Candy wall lamps by the bed
- Open-plan living/kitchen: Pendants over the kitchen island + plafonds in the living area
By choosing the same color across types you create a cohesive look that flows naturally from room to room. Need color inspiration? Read our color selection guide.
Our recommendation
If you’re choosing only one lamp and your room allows it, we typically recommend a pendant. It adds more character, more drama, and is the best way to showcase the beautiful Murano glass. But if ceiling height is limiting or the room calls for a more discreet solution, the plafond is an equally beautiful – and more practical – choice.
See both types in our complete collection, or visit the showroom to compare in person. We offer free shipping on all orders. Also see our complete interior design guide and installation instructions.