I hung this over my sink.  I have an eight foot ceiling with normal one foot soffit.  I used only the short pole (there are an additional 2 longer ones) and it hangs perfectly above my taller faucet (not super tall but taller).  I tried the 100 watt bulb, but it was too bright so I went to 60 watts.  It is a dramatic piece and the bronze color looks great with my farmhouse kitchen.  This light is not cheap at all, but it is sturdy and well made.