Bathroom Lighting

The average bathroom has terrible lighting that seldom helps for either the bathroom’s design or for the people who use it. The right bathroom lighting choice will make the space feel more welcoming, as well give better illumination in the places you need it most.

The key to good bathroom lighting is to have at least three different sources of light. You will want to have lighting that illuminates and enhances the space itself, for example, lighting that will make a small room appear larger. You want lighting to create a sense of ambiance and to draw attention to an interesting feature or a specific design detail. And you want task lighting for specific areas such as the sink and shower area.

Some helpful tips:

Ambient Lighting
Generally this is the central fixture in the room. Luckily the options available today are more varied than ever. Look for a fixture that will compliment the bathroom décor or that is similar to the finishes of the faucets or hardware. Pendant lights can also add more flair than a regular fixture. Recessed lights or track lighting can also work well for ambient lighting. The décor of the room should play a large role in deciding which type of lighting works best.

Accent Lighting
Good accent lighting can really add a sense of style and elegance to the space. If your vanity area is large enough a small lamp adds a sense of warmth, be sure it is not near the sink to avoid possible electrocution. A recessed light can also be angled to highlight a corner cabinet or other decorative detail.

Task Lighting
Try to avoid placing lighting in such a way that it will cast shadows. Overhead fixtures or lighting above the mirror generally don't work as well for task lighting as wall sconces do as they cast shadows. Wall sconces placed on either side of the wall mirror at about eye level are ideal for grooming as they provide complete light coverage of the face. Recessed lighting works well for over the shower stall or tub area.

Whatever your lighting plan, agreat idea is to install a dimmer switch because it allows for range in lighting. Dimmer switches also save energy and increase lamp life.

For bulbs, choose either halogen bulbs or compact fluorescent bulbs for a brighter and longer lasting effect. For more information consult one of the Contractors in our bathroom directory.