Bathroom Lighting Tips

The average bathroom has terrible lighting that does nothing for either the bathroom or the people who use it. The right of bathroom lighting choice will make the space feel more appealing, 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 — lighting that will make a small room appear larger, for example. You want lighting to create a sense of ambiance and to draw attention to an interesting feature or specific design details. And you want task lighting for specific areas such as the sink and shower area.

Here are some helpful tips for each:

• Ambient lighting
• Generally this is a central fixture. Luckily the options available today are more varied than ever. Look for a fixture that will complement the bathroom décor — a similar style or finish as the faucets or hardware, for example. 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 would look best.
• Accent lighting
• Good accent lighting can really add a sense of style and elegance to the space. For instance, if your vanity area has enough room, a small lamp adds a sense of warmth — just 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. Over the shower stall or tub area a recessed light works well.

Whatever your lighting plan, you will want to have dimmer switches as they allow the maximum range of lighting. In a small room, for instance, just a dimmer switch and wall sconces may suffice for the entire room. 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.