Dome Pendant Lights: Complete UK Guide to Dome Ceiling Lighting

Dome pendant lights represent lighting design at its most enduring—a shape so universally appealing it’s remained popular across centuries, continents, and design movements. From industrial factory floors to contemporary Scandinavian kitchens, from grand Victorian hallways to minimalist bedrooms, the simple elegance of dome light fixtures works everywhere.

This comprehensive guide reveals everything you need to know about choosing, placing, and styling dome ceiling lights throughout your home—whether you’re illuminating kitchen islands, dining tables, living spaces, or bedrooms.

Why Dome Pendant Lights Work Everywhere

The Universal Appeal of Dome Shapes

There’s a reason dome shapes appear throughout architectural history—from ancient Roman Pantheon to modern Scandinavian design. The gentle curve is inherently pleasing to the human eye, creating visual harmony that transcends cultural and temporal boundaries.

Unlike geometric or heavily styled fixtures that date themselves to specific design eras, dome pendants possess timeless quality. A well-chosen dome pendant installed today will look equally appropriate in ten, twenty, or even fifty years.

Perfect Light Distribution

The dome shape isn’t just aesthetically pleasing—it’s functionally superior. The curved interior surface naturally focuses light downward where you need it most, whilst the reflective coating maximizes efficiency.

How dome pendants distribute light:

• Primary downward illumination: Focused light on work surfaces, tables, or task areas
• Controlled ambient glow: Light escapes around the rim, preventing harsh spotlight effects
• Reduced glare: The enclosed shade shields bulbs from direct sight lines
• Even coverage: The curved reflector eliminates harsh shadows and bright spots

This combination makes dome pendants exceptionally versatile—providing practical task lighting whilst creating warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Style Chameleons Across Design Eras

Perhaps the most remarkable quality of dome pendants is their ability to adapt to virtually any interior style:

The same fundamental dome shape works across all these styles—you’re simply choosing different materials, finishes, and proportions to suit your specific aesthetic.

Dome Pendant Light Styles & Collections

Classic Kitchen Dome Pendants: Enamel & Industrial Heritage

Traditional enamel dome pendants evolved from factory and warehouse lighting—fixtures designed to withstand industrial environments whilst providing excellent illumination. Today, these robust designs bring authentic character to residential kitchens.

Austin Large Factory Cage Pendant Light Choice of Colours

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Vintage Black & Copper Pendant Light | The Bessemer

£189.00 Original price was: £189.00.£173.88Current price is: £173.88.

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Contemporary Sollux Dome Collection: Modern European Design

For those seeking sleek, contemporary dome pendants with European design sophistication, the Sollux collection offers minimalist aesthetics and premium finishes that suit modern living spaces beautifully.

Pendant Lamp Pablito

£73.92 Original price was: £73.92.£65.05Current price is: £65.05.

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Pendant Lamp Casco White / Natural Wood

£77.05 Original price was: £77.05.£67.80Current price is: £67.80.

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Browse Contemporary Sollux Dome Collection →

Traditional Dome Pendants: Heritage Craftsmanship

For period properties, heritage renovations, or simply those appreciating traditional craftsmanship, classic dome pendants in aged finishes provide authentic historical character.

Dome Pendant Lights by Room: Application Guide

Kitchen Applications: Islands, Breakfast Bars & Work Zones

Kitchen islands and breakfast bars remain the most popular application for dome pendants, where their focused downward light provides excellent task illumination whilst their distinctive silhouettes add visual interest at eye level.

Kitchen Island Configurations

Installation Heights for Kitchens

Hang dome pendants 75-85cm above worktop surfaces for optimal task lighting. This height provides:

• Adequate clearance for food preparation activities
• Comfortable sight lines across the island
• Focused light exactly where needed
• Appreciation of the fixture’s design details

Adjust slightly higher (85-90cm) if your island doubles as dining/bar seating to prevent fixtures obstructing conversations.

Kitchen Style Recommendations

Traditional country kitchens: Classic cream or heritage colored enamel domes complement Shaker cabinetry and farmhouse sinks beautifully.

Modern contemporary kitchens: Sleek chrome, brushed steel, or matte black domes coordinate with handleless units and integrated appliances.

Industrial-chic kitchens: Factory-style enamel or aged metal domes reference warehouse aesthetics whilst providing authentic character.

Scandi-inspired kitchens: White or pale grey domes embody Nordic minimalism and maximize light reflection in clean, bright spaces.

Dining Room Dome Pendants: Creating Intimate Gatherings

Dome pendants excel above dining tables, creating focal points that draw people together whilst providing flattering, focused illumination that enhances both food presentation and conversation.

Sizing Dome Pendants for Dining Tables

Dining Room Installation Height

Position dome pendants 75-85cm above dining table surfaces. This height:

• Prevents fixtures obstructing sight lines during conversation
• Creates intimate, focused dining atmosphere
• Showcases the pendant’s design from seated positions
• Provides flattering illumination for table settings and faces

Style Considerations for Dining Rooms

Traditional dining rooms: Aged brass or bronze dome pendants complement antique furniture and period architecture, creating timeless elegance.

Contemporary dining spaces: Sleek Sollux domes in brushed nickel or matte black provide refined sophistication without overwhelming modern furniture.

Country dining rooms: Enamel domes in heritage colors—forest green, burgundy, navy blue—add warmth and character to rustic schemes.

Minimalist dining areas: White or pale grey architectural domes maintain clean Scandi aesthetics whilst providing essential ambient light.

Pro Tip: Install dimmers on dining room dome pendants. Bright light suits family meals and homework; softer illumination creates romantic atmosphere for dinner parties and entertaining.

Living Room & Lounge Dome Lighting: Defining Spaces

In open-plan living spaces, dome pendants define zones without physical barriers—marking seating areas, reading nooks, or conversation spaces with focused pools of light that create intimate pockets within larger rooms.

Living Room Applications

Above coffee tables in seating groups: Medium to large domes (35-45cm) hung 200-220cm from floor create focal points without interfering with circulation. This positions light at ideal height for ambient illumination whilst showcasing the fixture’s design.

Reading corners and chair groupings: Single dome pendant above favorite reading chair provides directed task lighting whilst defining the nook as dedicated space. Choose adjustable or swing-arm dome fixtures for maximum flexibility.

Open-plan zone definition: In large, open living areas, dome pendants visually separate lounging zones from dining or kitchen areas without solid partitions. Consistent fixtures throughout maintain cohesion whilst varying heights creates subtle delineation.

Double-height living spaces: Extra-large dome pendants (45cm+) with extended drops make architectural statements in two-story living rooms, filling vertical volume that smaller fixtures cannot command.

Best Dome Styles for Living Rooms

• Larger domes (35cm+) suit spacious living areas better than small fixtures that appear lost
• Softer finishes (brushed metals, matte) reduce glare compared to polished chrome
• Warm light temperatures (2700K) create cozy, relaxing atmosphere ideal for unwinding
• Dimmable fixtures essential for adjusting between bright activity lighting and soft evening ambiance
• Contemporary Sollux domes particularly suit modern living rooms with their refined aesthetics

Layering Living Room Lighting

Remember: dome pendants work best as part of layered lighting schemes rather than sole illumination sources.

Combine dome pendants with:

• Table lamps on side tables for warm pools of ambient light at seating level
• Floor lamps in corners for uplighting that highlights architectural features
• Wall sconces adding vertical dimension and filling shadow gaps
• Recessed downlights providing overall ambient illumination

This layered approach creates depth, warmth, and lighting versatility that single overhead dome fixtures cannot achieve alone.

Bedroom Dome Pendant Lighting: Intimate Illumination

Bedrooms benefit from dome pendants’ warm, focused glow that creates intimate, relaxing atmospheres perfect for unwinding. Smaller domes work particularly well as bedside pendant alternatives, freeing nightstand surfaces whilst providing reading light.

Bedroom Dome Applications

Bedside pendants: Matching small to medium domes (25-32cm) hung either side of the bed replace traditional table lamps elegantly. Suspend 60-70cm above mattress height for comfortable reading whilst positioned far enough from pillows to avoid head bumps.

Central bedroom lighting: Single medium to large dome (35-42cm) provides general illumination whilst maintaining refined aesthetic. Choose fixtures with frosted glass or interior diffusers for softer, less directional light suitable for relaxation.

Dressing areas: Dome pendants above dressing tables or vanity areas provide focused task lighting for grooming whilst the downward-directed illumination prevents glare in mirrors.

Reading nooks: Single dome pendant above bedroom seating creates dedicated reading space with its own focused lighting independent from main bedroom illumination.

Best Bedroom Dome Choices

• Softer finishes like brushed brass, copper, or matte colors create warmth
• Warm white bulbs (2700K) essential for restful ambiance
• Frosted or opal glass diffuses light for gentler illumination
• Dimmers mandatory for adjusting between reading brightness and nighttime softness
• Contemporary Sollux domes suit modern bedrooms wanting refined aesthetics

Pro Tip: For bedside pendants, specify custom cable lengths ensuring fixtures hang at precisely the right height for your bed and ceiling. Made-to-order approach guarantees perfect proportions.

Hallway & Entrance Dome Pendants: First Impressions

Entrance halls and corridors provide ideal opportunities for statement dome pendants that create memorable first impressions whilst providing practical illumination for transitional spaces.

Entrance Hall Applications

Grand entrance statements: Large or extra-large dome pendants (40-50cm) command attention in double-height entrance halls, filling vertical volume whilst providing welcoming illumination. Extended cable drops (2-3 meters) create dramatic visual impact.

Standard entrance halls: Medium domes (30-35cm) suit typical ceiling heights (2.4m) beautifully, providing adequate light without overwhelming proportions. Single central fixture or two pendants for wider halls.

Corridor lighting: Multiple small to medium domes (25-32cm) spaced along hallway length create rhythmic visual interest whilst providing even illumination. Space fixtures 2-2.5 meters apart for balanced coverage.

Stairwell illumination: Dome pendants positioned above stair landings or suspended within stairwells provide safe passage whilst showcasing fixtures from multiple viewing angles. Ensure adequate clearance for comfortable passage (minimum 2 meters).

Hallway Styling Considerations

First impressions matter: Choose dome finishes that set the tone for your home’s overall aesthetic:

• Traditional homes: Aged brass or bronze domes reference period architecture
• Contemporary properties: Sleek chrome or matte black makes bold modern statements
• Country cottages: Cream or heritage colored enamel creates welcoming warmth
• Minimalist interiors: White or grey Sollux domes maintain clean aesthetics

Coordinate with other hallway elements: Match dome pendant finishes with door hardware, stair rails, or wall sconces for cohesive design throughout entrance areas.

Size Guide: Choosing the Right Dome Pendant Proportions

The most common mistake with dome pendants? Choosing fixtures that are too small for the space. A dome that looks substantial in showrooms often disappears when installed over large kitchen islands or in high-ceilinged rooms.

Small Domes (20-25cm diameter)

Best applications:

• Breakfast bars and compact kitchen islands (up to 1.2m)
• Bedside pendants in standard bedrooms
• Clustering in groups of three, four, or five
• Smaller rooms where large fixtures overwhelm
• Creating delicate, industrial character through multiple fixtures

When small domes work brilliantly: Multiple small domes often create better visual impact than single medium fixtures. Three 20cm domes above a kitchen island provide excellent coverage whilst their repetition creates dynamic rhythm.

When to size up: If you’re considering only one or two fixtures, medium domes typically provide better presence and proportions.

Medium Domes (28-35cm diameter)

Best applications:

• Standard kitchen islands (1.5-2.5m) in pairs or threes
• Dining tables (medium sizes) as single statement or pair
• Living room focal points above coffee tables
• Standard entrance halls (2.4m ceilings)
• Most residential applications requiring balance

The versatile sweet spot: Medium domes represent the Goldilocks zone for most homes—large enough to create presence, practical enough for everyday use, proportional to typical room scales.

This size works equally well solo or in multiples, suits standard ceiling heights, and provides adequate illumination without excessive visual weight.

Large & Extra-Large Domes (40cm+ diameter)

Best applications:

• Substantial kitchen islands in large, open-plan spaces
• High ceilings (2.7m+) requiring proportional fixtures
• Double-height entrance halls and stairwells
• Making bold architectural statements
• Commercial-style residential kitchens
• Large dining tables (2m+) as commanding focal points

When large domes excel: Spacious, open-plan areas with generous ceiling heights showcase large dome pendants beautifully. The substantial scale prevents fixtures appearing lost whilst their presence creates genuine architectural impact.

When to scale down: In standard-height rooms (2.4m) with typical proportions, large domes can feel overwhelming. Medium fixtures often provide better balance.

The Multiple-Pendant Rule

For kitchen islands and long dining tables, multiple pendants almost always look better than single fixtures. The rhythm created by repetition adds visual interest whilst providing more even light distribution.

General guidelines:

• Islands/tables up to 2m: Two medium domes or three small domes
• Islands/tables 2-3m: Three medium domes, two large domes, or four small domes
• Islands/tables 3m+: Three large domes or five medium domes
• Spacing: 75-90cm between pendant centers for balanced visual rhythm
• Odd numbers: Generally more pleasing than even (1, 3, 5 vs 2, 4)

Finish & Colour Guide: Choosing Your Dome Aesthetic

The right finish transforms dome pendants from attractive fixtures into cohesive design elements that feel integral to your space. Understanding how different finishes work with interior styles ensures selections that enhance rather than clash.

Classic White & Cream Enamel

Character: Bright, clean, timeless versatility

Works perfectly with:

• All-white or predominantly light kitchens creating fresh, airy feel
• Scandi-inspired schemes emphasizing simplicity and light
• Period properties wanting sympathetic modern additions
• Country cottages and farmhouse kitchens
• Maximizing light reflection in smaller or darker spaces

Why it’s failsafe: White and cream enamel domes work with virtually everything, never feel dated, and brighten spaces by reflecting light upward. The powder-coated finish resists yellowing better than paint, maintaining fresh appearance indefinitely.

Bold Heritage Colors

Popular shades: Racing green, slate blue, burgundy, navy blue, charcoal grey

Works perfectly with:

• Injecting personality into neutral kitchens without colored units
• Coordinating with existing accent colors in soft furnishings
• Country or farmhouse schemes wanting warmth and character
• Creating focal points without overwhelming spaces
• Period properties referencing historical color palettes

Styling tips:

• Navy blue domes against white units create stunning high-contrast schemes
• Forest green complements wooden elements and natural materials beautifully
• Burgundy or deep red adds energy and warmth to neutral palettes
• Slate blue provides softer color interest for coastal or country themes

Metallic Finishes: Chrome, Brass, Copper, Nickel

Available options:

Brushed steel/chrome: Cool, contemporary sophistication
Polished chrome: Bright, reflective modern glamour
Antique brass: Warm heritage character with aged patina
Polished brass: Bold traditional elegance
Copper: Rich warmth and unique developing patina
Brushed nickel: Refined grey-toned metallic subtlety

Works perfectly with:

• Modern kitchens with stainless appliances (chrome/steel)
• Creating cohesion with taps, handles, and hardware
• Adding warmth to neutral schemes (brass/copper)
• Industrial-influenced interiors wanting refined edge
• Coordinating with other metallic elements throughout home

Mixing metals: While matching metal finishes throughout creates cohesion, carefully mixing metallics—brass with chrome, copper with nickel—adds sophistication when done intentionally. Maintain consistent “temperature” (all warm or all cool) for best results.

Matte Black: Bold Contemporary Statement

Character: Dramatic, architectural, modern sophistication

Works perfectly with:

• High-contrast interiors pairing black with white
• Industrial lofts and warehouse conversions
• Modern farmhouse blending rustic with contemporary
• Minimalist design wanting graphic impact
• Creating bold focal points against pale walls

Styling considerations: Matte black domes create strong visual weight—ensure your space can handle the impact. They work brilliantly in light, airy rooms but can feel heavy in already dark spaces. Balance with lighter elements and adequate illumination.

Aged & Weathered Finishes

Available effects: Distressed enamel, aged brass with patina, weathered metal, vintage industrial

Works perfectly with:

• Period properties wanting authentic historical character
• Farmhouse and cottage kitchens
• Creating lived-in character in new builds
• Softening overly modern or clinical spaces
• Industrial-vintage fusion aesthetics

Authenticity matters: Quality weathered finishes show intentional, consistent aging. Cheap versions look obviously artificial. Invest in properly aged fixtures that develop character rather than appearing artificially distressed.

Material Choices: Understanding Dome Construction

Vitreous Enamel Over Steel

Traditional vitreous enamel coating fused to steel creates the classic factory pendant aesthetic. This proven combination delivers exceptional durability—there’s a reason these fixtures lasted decades in demanding industrial environments.

Characteristics:

• Smooth, glossy finish exceptionally easy to clean
• Chip-resistant when properly applied
• Maintains color intensity indefinitely without fading
• Substantial weight indicating quality construction
• Heat-resistant for use with higher-wattage bulbs

Quality indicators: Premium enamel pendants show consistent, even coating inside and out. Cheap versions reveal thin enamel, manufacturing flaws, or uneven application. The substantial weight of quality enamel fixtures is immediately apparent when handled.

Spun Metal: Steel & Aluminium

Metal domes—typically spun steel or aluminium—can be left natural, painted, or powder-coated. These fixtures often possess slightly more industrial edge than enamel equivalents, even in similar shapes.

Characteristics:

• Lighter weight than enamel (particularly aluminium)
• Powder coating provides durable, chip-resistant finish
• Brushed or hammered textures add visual interest
• Natural metal finishes (brass, copper) develop authentic patina
• Excellent for contemporary and minimalist applications

Finish considerations: Brushed or hammered metal surfaces hide fingerprints and minor marks better than polished finishes—practical advantage in busy kitchens and family homes.

Glass Domes: Clear, Frosted & Opal

Less common but beautiful when executed well, glass dome pendants create softer, more diffused illumination than metal equivalents. They suit decorative applications where ambiance matters as much as task lighting.

Glass dome types:

Clear glass: Showcases decorative LED filament bulbs whilst maintaining clean dome silhouette. The visible bulb becomes part of the fixture’s appeal.

Frosted glass: Diffuses light gently, creating soft ambient glow without harsh shadows or bright spots. Ideal for bedrooms and dining rooms.

Opal glass: Milky white glass provides maximum diffusion, creating gentle, shadowless illumination perfect for relaxed spaces.

Best applications: Glass domes excel in dining rooms, bedrooms, and living areas where softer lighting suits the mood. They’re less practical for task-focused kitchen applications where metal domes direct light more efficiently.

Installation & Practical Considerations

Installation Heights by Application

Kitchen islands & work surfaces: 75-85cm above worktop provides optimal task lighting, adequate working clearance, and comfortable sight lines. Adjust slightly higher (85-90cm) for islands doubling as dining/bar seating.

Dining tables: 75-85cm above table surface creates intimate atmosphere whilst preventing fixtures obstructing conversation. Higher ceilings accommodate slightly lower pendants for increased intimacy.

Living room seating areas: 200-220cm from floor positions pendants above coffee tables at ideal ambient height. This showcases fixtures whilst maintaining comfortable circulation space.

Hallways & corridors: Minimum 2 meters clearance from floor ensures comfortable passage beneath fixtures. Higher ceilings allow lower drops for increased visual drama.

Bedside pendants: 60-70cm above mattress height provides comfortable reading light whilst positioned far enough from pillows to avoid accidental head bumps.

Bulb Selection for Dome Pendants

Dome pendants accept standard E27 (ES) Edison Screw bulbs, providing flexibility in choosing light quality and energy efficiency.

For task lighting (kitchens, work areas):

• LED 8-10W providing 800-1000 lumens
• Warm white (3000K) for comfortable brightness without harshness
• Clear glass shades maximize light output efficiency
• Consider slightly brighter bulbs if using multiple fixtures

For ambient lighting (dining, living, bedrooms):

• LED 5-7W providing 500-700 lumens
• Warm white (2700K) for cozy, welcoming atmosphere
• LED filament bulbs add decorative interest in clear/glass domes
• Frosted bulbs soften light in opal or frosted glass fixtures

Dimming capability: Essential for versatility. Specify dimmable LED bulbs and install on dimmer switches to adjust between bright task lighting and soft atmospheric glow.

Energy efficiency note: Modern LED bulbs use 80% less electricity than traditional incandescent whilst lasting 15-20 years. The modest upfront cost delivers exceptional long-term savings.

Cable Lengths & Adjustability

Most quality dome pendants offer adjustable cable lengths, allowing precise positioning for your specific ceiling height and application.

Standard configurations:

• 1 meter cable suits standard 2.4m ceiling heights for most applications
• 1.5-2 meter cables accommodate higher ceilings or lower drop requirements
• Custom lengths available for exceptional ceiling heights or specific needs

Adjustment mechanisms: Quality pendants incorporate ceiling roses or cord grips allowing easy height adjustment during installation. This ensures perfect positioning without electrical modifications.

Sloped ceilings: If installing on angled ceilings, verify your chosen pendant accommodates sloped mounting. Not all fixtures include appropriate ceiling roses for non-horizontal applications.

Creating Impact with Multiple Dome Pendants

While single dome pendants work beautifully in appropriate applications, multiples create far more visual interest and superior light distribution in many situations.

Linear Arrangements

The classic approach—pendants spaced evenly along kitchen island or dining table length. This creates rhythm and balance whilst providing consistent, even illumination.

Spacing guidelines:

• 75-90cm between pendant centers for balanced visual effect
• Position end fixtures 30-40cm from island/table edges
• Maintain consistent spacing throughout for professional appearance
• Align fixtures parallel to island/table length

Varied Heights: Contemporary Dynamism

Stagger pendants at slightly different heights—typically 10-15cm variation—for more dynamic, contemporary aesthetic. This works particularly well with three or five fixtures.

When height variation works:

• Modern, contemporary interiors wanting visual movement
• Open-plan spaces with high or varied ceiling heights
• Creating intentional asymmetry for artistic effect
• Three or more fixtures (two at varied heights looks accidental)

When to maintain consistent height: Traditional interiors, formal dining rooms, and classic kitchens typically look better with uniform pendant heights maintaining balanced symmetry.

Clustered Arrangements

Rather than distributing pendants evenly, cluster three or more smaller domes at one end of islands or above specific seating areas. This creates dramatic focal points whilst leaving other areas visually lighter.

Best applications:

• Wide kitchen islands with distinct zones (prep vs. seating)
• Dining areas within open-plan spaces
• Creating “lamp-like” grouped illumination
• Contemporary industrial schemes

Mixing Sizes: Intentional Variety

Combining different dome sizes—perhaps two medium and one large, or alternating medium and small—adds visual interest whilst maintaining family resemblance through identical finishes.

Keys to successful size mixing:

• Maintain identical finish and material across all fixtures
• Use clear size differentiation (don’t mix 30cm with 32cm—use 25cm, 32cm, 40cm)
• Position largest dome centrally for balanced composition
• Ensure size variation reads as intentional design, not mismatched purchase

Dome Pendants vs. Cage Pendants: Choosing Your Style

Both dome and cage pendants offer industrial-inspired aesthetics, but they create distinctly different moods and suit different design approaches.

The good news: You needn’t choose exclusively. Many successful interiors combine dome pendants over islands with cage wall lights elsewhere, or vice versa. The two styles complement each other beautifully when thoughtfully coordinated through finish and proportion.

Explore Our Cage Pendant Collection →

Ready to Choose Your Perfect Dome Pendant Lights?

Dome pendant lights offer that rare combination of practical excellence and timeless aesthetic appeal. They work tirelessly providing focused illumination whilst adding architectural character that elevates spaces from functional to memorable.

From classic kitchen applications to contemporary living room statements, from intimate bedroom lighting to grand entrance hall drama—dome pendants adapt to virtually any residential application whilst maintaining their distinctive character.

Browse our complete dome pendant collection:

• Classic enamel dome kitchen pendants in multiple sizes and heritage colors
• Contemporary Sollux dome collection in premium metallic finishes
• Traditional aged brass and weathered dome fixtures
• Glass dome pendants for softer ambient lighting

Shop All Dome Pendant Lights →

Not sure which size, finish, or configuration suits your space? Our team understands residential lighting inside out. We can guide you toward fixtures that’ll work beautifully in your specific application, considering ceiling heights, room proportions, and aesthetic preferences.

All our dome pendants meet stringent UK and European safety standards, ensuring quality construction and proper certifications. When you choose from Fisherman’s Lights, you’re investing in fixtures built to illuminate your home for decades.

Transform your spaces with lighting that’s as practical as it is beautiful.

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