Lighting is one of the most important, and often overlooked, components of a well-designed bathroom. Lighting is essential for helping us complete our daily tasks, such as when we’re applying makeup, shaving, and getting ready for the day. The right bathroom lighting helps us look our best, allowing us to complete our morning routine with accuracy and efficiency.
Choosing the proper bathroom lighting fixtures for each individual space is key to maintaining a beautiful and functional bathroom, especially during the winter months when natural light is in short supply and we crave a brighter atmosphere. Here are some tips and tricks for selecting the best bathroom lights to suit your space and personal style.
The Best Bulbs for Bathroom Lighting
Full-spectrum bulbs offer maximum impact in a small package, and are easy to install in existing light fixtures. These bulbs mimic natural light and can help boost your mood and make you feel more awake and refreshed in the morning. Low-voltage LED bulbs are another easy fix for dark bathrooms because they provide lots of light while simultaneously using less energy than other bulb types. This means you are less likely to face a burnt-out bulb in the wee hours of the morning!
Light Layering Technique
A great way to enhance the amount of light in your bathroom and up the ambiance is to layer your light. Instead of having just a few bathroom ceiling lights that can’t possibly provide adequate illumination, it’s preferable to use several types of lights at different levels in the space. Incorporating ceiling lights for overall brilliance, bathroom vanity lights above the sink, and bathroom mirror lights at eye level for grooming will improve functionality and elevate your bathroom into a spa-like oasis. Layering your light and taking advantage of recessed or track lighting will also eliminate shadows that are often caused by singular fixtures or bulbs that are installed at or near ceiling height.
Bathroom Lighting Placement
One of the best bathroom lighting ideas is to incorporate lighting near the tub. Your designer will help you choose lighting fixtures and bulbs that are safe for this area and are rated for use in wet locations. LED lighting that is completely enclosed in a shell or case is ideal for the shower because it improves safety, makes the space feel larger, and highlights the design elements of the shower itself.
Brighten and Refresh Your Bathroom Space
Lighting is a relatively simple and inexpensive way to revitalize your bathroom and add character. There are countless styles, designs, and options to choose from, all of which will help to improve your mood and enjoyment of the space. A design professional can help you select the lighting best suited to your needs and the overall design of your bathroom.