How I Replaced My Can Lights with Gorgeous Pendants
Our hallway had those standard can lights that are totally functional, but kind of boring. I knew I really wanted something for that space that had a little more charm and personality, so I swapped out our can lights for these gorgeous Amazon pendants. Honestly, it completely transformed the look of the hallway.
The best part? I didn’t have to rewire anything or hire an electrician. I just used this can light converter kit and we did it ourselves Seriously, it’s a total game-changer for renters or anyone who doesn’t want to do major electrical work. We just did it again in our bathroom makeover so I filmed my husband and wrote down exact step by step instructions for you!
Here’s how it works:
Turn off the power at the breaker.
Remove the can light trim (ours are just two wires that you squeeze together to release)
Unscrew the can light from the ceiling (similar to a light bulb)
4. Open the converter kit and separate the metal bracket pieces that are screwed together. You will need the expandable bracket first.
5. Expand it to the side of your hole in the ceiling. Tighten the middle screw to lock in the adjusted size and screw the two side screw into the actual can light hole.
6. Now you’ll need the other metal piece. Using two screws from the kit, it will screw directly into the adjustable bracket.
7. The green wire hanging down is the ground wire. Using the flat head screw driver, loosen the screw. Attach it to a metal piece inside the can light hole and screw it tight to secure it. Tuck the wire out of the way.
8. Put the metal cover up by lining up the two spaces and twisting it in place.
9. Now screw in the piece that looks like the bottom of a light bulb with a black and white wire attached.
10. If needed, install the ceiling medallion to cover the metal plate (optional) or use the small ceiling medallion it comes with (like I did in my hallway!)
11. Now you can install your pendant light! Follow the directions for your specific light fixture.
It’s such a simple project, but it made a huge difference. The pendants bring in so much more style than the old can lights ever did, and now the hallway and bathroom feels more elevated.
If you’ve got recessed lights that could use a little personality, this is one of those quick wins that looks way more complicated than it actually is.
Links at a glance:
Paint in hallway: Reddened Earth by HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams
Paint in bathroom: Virtual Taupe by HGTV Home by Sherwin Williams
Pendant Lights in hallway
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My bestselling lighting picks on amazon
Good lighting doesn’t just brighten a room - it completely transforms it. The right fixture can bring in vintage charm, make a space feel instantly more luxurious, and pull everything together in a way that feels elevated but still effortless.
Over time, I’ve found a handful of lighting pieces that strike that perfect balance. They’re warm, timeless, and just the right amount of statement-making, and based on how often they’re added to carts, it seems you all agree.
These are the Amazon lighting picks I’ve used and loved in our home, and the ones that continue to be bestsellers month after month. If you’re looking to update a space with pieces that feel high-end (without the high-end price tag), this list is a great place to start.
This is hands-down my most clicked and most purchased light and once you see it in person, it’s easy to understand why. The all-brass finish gives it such a polished, sculptural look that instantly elevates any workspace. It’s bold without feeling over the top, and adds that perfect “finished” touch to the office. It has the look of a designer piece, but at a price that feels way more approachable.
These pendants totally transformed our hallway. The brass finish paired with the patterned glass gives off the prettiest glow, especially at night. They're an easy swap that adds so much elegance. I think people love them because they make even a simple hallway feel curated.
This brass vanity light with clear glass globes brings just the right amount of vintage charm to our red bathroom. The warm metal finish pairs beautifully with the bold walls, creating a space that feels layered and intentional. It’s classic, elegant, and gives off a soft glow that’s both flattering and functional—everything you want in a bathroom light.
This soft blush pink light has become one of my most asked-about pieces. It actually used to live in our sunroom before we moved it to the playroom—which just goes to show how versatile it really is. It adds a playful, charming touch without feeling too “kiddie,” and I love how it brings personality into any space. It would be just as sweet in a nursery, a kid’s room, or even a whimsical office corner.
My Bedroom Wall Sconces by the Fireplace
These sconces are a personal favorite—they’re simple, modern, and add so much warmth next to our fireplace. The vintage glass and brass finish bring a soft glow that feels cozy.
This is the crown jewel of our sunroom. The circular frame keeps things airy and open, while the design adds a little drama in the best way. It ties the whole room together and looks so good with the natural light pouring in. This one is always a hit when people see it in person!
Ready to Elevate Your Lighting?
Each of these pieces has become a bestseller for a reason—they bring character, warmth, and a little bit of luxury to everyday spaces. Whether you’re swapping out a dated vanity light or making a statement with a new chandelier, these picks add that thoughtfully layered look that takes a room to the next level.
Links at a Glance:
Hallway Mirror - Found at an estate sale
Toilet Paper Holder (Red Bathroom)
Horse Print (Red Bathroom) -frame is thrifted
Column Plant Holder (Bedroom) - Estate sale find