We begin and end our days in the bathroom; a place of strong utility and high function. From grooming to relaxing (and everything in between), it’s important to have a properly lit space that is as beautiful as it is functional. Whether you’re thinking about upgrading or starting from scratch, we’ve compiled a checklist to help optimize your bathroom lighting experience.
CENTRAL FIXTURE
A main or central fixture in the primary bathroom is an important design element. It sets the tone for the space and grounds the room, providing a nice focal point in the air. We like to suggest an elegant chandelier, a pendant or a flush mount fixture.
MIRRORS
The most important lighting situation is around the mirrors. This is where you can run into some serious shadows if not placed correctly. Positioning your sconces on either side of the mirror helps to evenly distribute light for grooming needs. We suggest strong, but soft light at or near eye level to avoid any harsh shadows.
RECESSED LIGHTING
Adding recessed lighting over the vanity area can be helpful in illuminating the bathroom, especially if a central fixture is not an option. Recessed lighting helps to disperse light throughout the space, thus, creating a soft glow that is appealing to the eye. We suggest having them wired on an independent switch for more light and shadow control.
BULB TEMPERATURE
Not too hot and not too cold. Chances are you’ve been victim to extremely cold overhead lighting at some point and we can all agree that steril, hospital-grade lighting is not the vibe. Aim for temperatures between 2700-3000K on the Kelvin Scale to create a pleasant experience on your eyes and all tasks being performed in the bathroom.
DIMMERS
Using dimmers controls the overall experience you have with your home lighting. Installing dimmers in the bathroom is a great way to control the mood and ambience in this space. It also saves energy and can extend the life of your bulbs.
NATURAL LIGHT
In an ideal situation, working to achieve a natural light source within the primary bathroom is greatly valuable. Window or a skylight, achieving natural light is always a nice payoff that compliments your overall lighting design efforts, providing illumination that bulbs can’t.