Seeing is Believing: Bathroom Lighting Tips

Lighting is probably not the first thing you think about in a bathroom remodel. Your initial focus is most likely on the amenities that will be part of your new spa/sanctuary, and the materials you choose for your vanity countertop and flooring.

But for today’s luxury bathroom, the right illumination is just as important a design element. Lighting for the modern bathroom goes way beyond the traditional ceiling fixture to embrace everything from recessed or indirect lighting to specific task lighting in the form of wall sconces or freestanding lamps.

As bathrooms get larger and often include separate areas, keeping the room bright and sunny means bringing in more, strategically placed light sources that are carefully chosen to ensure the right kind of light for all bathing and grooming activities.

While incandescent bulbs are often used in bathrooms, you may want to consider compact fluorescents. You will still get warm flattering light without the heat incandescents can generate. And, you’ll save on electricity.

In the vanity area, the key to user-friendly lighting is to eliminate shadows and provide light that’s as natural as possible. Cross lighting is a good technique for banishing shadows across the face because light sources are positioned to shine on the mirror from all directions (above, below and both sides). Note that light-colored countertops will reflect more light onto your face than darker materials. If your mirror is exceptionally large – three feet wide or more – choose stronger overhead fixtures to make sure you don’t end up with a dark center area.

Adding a dimmer switch for bathroom lighting will allow you to adjust the room lighting to fit the need and the mood. A dimmer capability can also make nighttime visits to the bathroom more pleasant since the visitor won’t be walking into a blindingly bright room from a darkened hallway. Light switches placed by the door will ensure that family and guests aren’t bumping around in the dark.

In the final analysis, lighting design for your new luxury bathroom should be a key part of the overall design process. The right lighting will add immeasurably to the beauty and functionality of the finished product.