I’m looking for U.S.-based interior designers or home decorators to share expert insights for two upcoming design features on The Summit, the official blog of 54kibo, an African luxury home décor brand. The first article explores how to choose the right pendant lighting, while the second focuses on kitchen décor ideas and inspiration. Full credit and backlinks will be provided to all featured experts. Questions include: How to Choose the Right Pendant Lighting for Your Home 1. Pendant lighting plays a huge role in kitchen design, especially over islands and sinks. What are your golden rules for choosing the right size, height, and number of pendant lights for a kitchen island or workspace? 2. In spaces like kitchens and bathrooms, how do you balance decorative appeal with the right amount of task lighting? 3. Pendant lights come in so many styles and finishes. How do you guide homeowners in picking designs that complement their interiors without feeling too matchy or theme-driven? 4. What are your best tips for choosing pendant sizes and groupings, especially in smaller spaces or when mixing contemporary lighting pendants with other fixtures? How to Style a Kitchen: Inspiration and Décor 1. When designing a kitchen, where should homeowners start? Do you begin with the layout, the materials, or a central design element like lighting or cabinetry to anchor the overall aesthetic? 2. How can homeowners infuse their kitchen with personality (whether through color, texture, or décor) without sacrificing practicality and flow? 3. Coastal and rustic kitchens are both timeless and trendy. What design elements define each, and how can homeowners adapt those styles to fit modern homes or smaller spaces? 4. Social media is full of “kitchen inspo,” but not every look translates to real life. How do you help clients bring their Pinterest-worthy visions to life in a way that’s functional, timeless, and true to their lifestyle?

1. I always emphasize my size principle when selecting pendant fixtures: proportions are paramount to the size of the island or work area. A good guide is to hang the fixtures 30 to 36 inches above the surface for general applications, so that the task light is available without blocking the view. I also like to space them at least 24 inches apart, so they do not overcrowd the visual space and still allow for efficient light application. 2. It is important for me to maintain a balance between the decorative quality of the fixtures and the task application. It is essential to vary the lighting types, using ambient lighting for overall brightness and using task lights where needed most. Under-cabinet lighting for kitchens is beneficial because it provides light to the counter spaces while enhancing the decorative feel of the room with a warm glow. This way, the area is decorated with lamps, and the room is styled to emphasize the effectiveness of light. 3. I encourage the homeowner to look for pendants that have character rather than simply matching the existing interiors. They can use some fun shapes or finishes that contrast with the other objects in the room. By using a variety of textures, such as metal and glass, they can harmonize the colors to create a more curated feel than a themey one. 4. For smaller spaces, light and slim pendants are preferable that won't take away too much from the area while providing the necessary light. Grouping small pendants in odd numbers can create a more interesting space and also add an element of fun without being cluttered. When mixing more contemporary styles, a consistency in color or material will tie the design together, preventing a component from competing against another or overwhelming the space. How to Style a Kitchen: Inspiration and Decor 3. Coastal kitchens typically feature light, airy colors, such as soft blues and whites, along with natural materials like wood and wicker to evoke a beachy feel. In contrast, rustic kitchens focus on warm, earthy tones, reclaimed wood, and textured elements that create a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Homeowners can adapt these styles by incorporating lighter cabinetry and streamlined designs for a coastal look, or using smaller rustic accents, like open shelving or vintage decor, to maintain a functional yet stylish space.