How the Right Pendant Lights Finished a Kitchen Remodel (See The 818 Swell)

How the Right Pendant Lights Finished a Kitchen Remodel (See The 818 Swell)

Design Feature: The Lights That Finished It — Michelle's Kitchen Remodel

Some kitchen renovations are about chasing a look. Michelle's was about completing a vision, and finding the pieces that would finally make the whole space feel done.

Michelle's kitchen full view featuring Bicycle Glass Co. pendants and chandelier

The Focal Point

From the very beginning, lighting wasn't an afterthought for Michelle, it was the centerpiece. "Your lights were the focal point!" she shared. Everything else in the renovation built around that decision, and when the pendants and chandelier went up, the space came together exactly the way she'd imagined. "Your lights completely finished our remodel of our kitchen. We love them!!!!"

818 Swell Single Pendants over Michelle's kitchen island

The Lighting Selections

For the kitchen island, Michelle chose two 818 Swell Single Pendants: a clean, hourglass silhouette that brings just the right amount of presence without overwhelming the space. Suspended side by side over the island, they create a balanced focal point with a warm, handcrafted glow.

Over the kitchen table, she selected the 818 Swell 3-Pendant Cascade Chandelier — the same beautiful glass shape, this time clustered together at varying heights for a dramatic, effect above the dining area. Together, the two selections tie the kitchen and dining space into one cohesive, beautifully lit room.

Wider shot of 818 Swell Single Pendants over Michelle's kitchen island

Why Recycled Glass Mattered

For Michelle, choosing Bicycle Glass wasn't just about aesthetics, sustainability was a real priority. When asked whether American-made and eco-conscious products played a role in her decision, her answer was immediate: "Huge! Recycling was very important!" Our pendants and chandeliers are handcrafted from 100% post-consumer recycled glass, made right here in Minneapolis, and built to last.

Take a Video Tour

Michelle was a winner of our video contest, and her kitchen tour says it all. See the 818 Swell pendants and chandelier in action:


Advice for Fellow Renovators

If you're considering handcrafted lighting for your own project, Michelle has one piece of advice: "Be patient. For it took a while to receive your lights but it was so worth it."

Thank you to Michelle for sharing her renovation story, her beautiful photos, and her winning video with us. You can find her on Instagram @elklakeblooms.

Want Help Choosing Lighting for Your Renovation?

If you're planning a renovation and want lighting that's handcrafted, meaningful, and made from recycled glass right here in the United States, we'd love to help. Our team can recommend shapes, sizes, and hanging solutions that fit your space and your story.

Book a lighting consultation or browse our most popular pieces to start imagining the glow.

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