The layout of your lighting fixtures and the type of bulb you use in your bathroom is more important than many people may realize. The lights are there not just to illuminate the room, but also to fully light a focal point—you! Changing the light fixtures is an easy way to update your bathroom’s appearance and improve functionality. We are here to help you to learn the best ways to optimally light your bathroom for a well-lit reflection. Here are some of the basics of bathroom lighting.
Your bathroom will benefit from a couple different types of lighting. Task lighting will make your daily showering and grooming activities easier, while overhead lighting helps fill the entire area in general.
Proper lighting from the sides provides excellent task lighting in a bathroom, especially if you enjoy applying makeup frequently. While a bright light directly over (or recessed into) the vanity will cast heavy shadows and give your reflection a creepy appearance, with proper side lighting your face will be evenly lit and make tasks like shaving or doing your daily makeup much easier. Aim to install sconces or strip lights along the sides of your mirror about 5 to 5.5 feet above the ground in most cases (but of course if you’re much taller or shorter, make adjustments as necessary). Strip lights in particular will be helpful because they provide light that is more evenly distributed than from a sconce or exposed bulb, since it is not emanating from a single point.
Another important area for task lighting? Your shower. While low light is great for a me-time bath, it’s not ideal for navigating a slippery shower. Consider adding a recessed light with a glass panel above the shower, or switch to glass doors or a clear curtain so that light from the vanity and overhead can illuminate the area.
When searching for your ideal overhead lighting, aim for an even number of bulbs. This will allow you to evenly space them out without having a single bulb directly above the mirror’s center. Following the logic of using side lights, increasing the number of light sources illuminates the room more evenly. When you avoid centering a bulb over the mirror you decrease the amount of shadows cast by corners, doors, or other features. For extra luxury, add a dimmer–you’ll be able to set the mood for a stress-free bath, and you won’t have to blink at the room’s sudden brightness if you need to use the bathroom during the night.
Bulb Color
The type of light emitted by your bulbs can completely alter the appearance of your bathroom. Harsh, cool colors rarely complement one’s appearance and complexion, so we recommend avoiding bright white colors. “Bright white” light bulbs also tend to be overbearing, especially in a small bathroom. Instead, opt for the warmer tones of a “soft white” light bulb.
Bulb Type
While incandescent light has traditionally been used in bathrooms and elsewhere, recent years have seen a massive shift to LED bulbs. While they’re more expensive up front, LEDs will save you money over time–they last many years longer than their fluorescent or incandescent counterparts. Most modern light fixtures can handle either LEDs or incandescents, so you can use whichever you prefer.
At West Coast Design Build Florida, we specialize in creating beautiful kitchens and bathrooms – and we’d love to help you with yours. Call today to learn more about our design and installation options in Sarasota.
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