When it comes to bathroom lighting, don't fall into the comfort zone. There are functional aspects of lighting to consider when it comes to task lighting, but you can't overlook bathroom vanity lights, ambient lighting, and accent lighting when creating your bathroom lighting scheme.
If you get your bathroom plan right, your lights can be a focal point of their own or a trendy element to enhance your aesthetic. Whether you're launching a complete bathroom renovation or just freshening your look up a little, think long and hard about your lighting plan. Think about how much time you spend in your bathroom, what times you most frequent the room, and whether natural light helps or hinders tasks at various points throughout the day. Whether you want to create an energising space or design a relaxing bathroom, the choice is all yours. In the meantime, check out these lighting ideas.
Bathroom lighting ideas for a well-rounded bathroom lighting scheme
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Bathroom mirror lighting
If you get ready in the bathroom, you need enough light source for applying makeup, hair, and anything else you might rush through in the morning. Grouping lights to either side of and over your bathroom mirror is a great way to ensure functional lighting. Work on your location to ensure shadow free task lighting to provide ample illumination. Mirror lighting offers more than function, the right fixture can deliver on looks. Perfectly angling your mirrored glass can also make your small bathroom appear much larger.
Minimalistic – bathroom ceiling lights and bathroom wall lights
Whether you have images of wall sconces, pendant lights, vanity lights, light globes, or flush mounts, the right lighting is key. Going down a monochromatic route will deliver clean, sleek lines and if you're thinking about black finishings, graphic box wall lights are a good fit. Alternatively, pendant lights might be the touch you're looking for.
If you're focused on creating a purely functional space, there are plenty of plain light fittings on the market – just don't choose anything dated to distract from the overall look. Naked bulbs are a great choice for focused illumination. If you're looking for a bolder or more dramatic aesthetic, brass is a winner. Whatever the choice for your perfect lighting, talk to an electrician before you complete the purchase.
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Energy efficient lighting plan
If you're looking for energy-efficient lighting ideas, it has to be LED lighting. While the initial cost may be higher than the alternative, LED bulbs last much longer. Additionally, there are a range of ways to utilise LED lights to ensure a well lit room. LED strips are ideal to create soft light, whether it's in your vanity, above the mirror, or for general illumination at night.
Consider dimmer switches for convenience, it can transform the entire room from bright lights to the perfect accent lighting for bath time.
Utilise natural light – mirror location, windows and skylights
The right shape, size, and location of the mirror can help you utilise natural light, even if you only have tiny windows. Hang your mirrors just right to bounce light around the room, create the illusion of space and use it to illuminate the room during daylight hours. That should save your energy bills unless you need task lighting for something specific. Natural light is the key to transforming the look of any room, but the way you use it combined with your lighting plan can truly take your bathroom to the next level.
Consider how natural light impacts the wet areas. You might want to install special lighting or skylights to illuminate wet zones such as the shower while you're bathing to save energy when the ceiling light is unnecessary.
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Make a statement
The right light can transform an entire room and bathroom lighting is no different. Remember how colour temperature can influence the way natural light interacts with your paint colour and fixtures and fittings. Whether you're interested in modern designs or something more classic, speaking to a bathroom renovation contractor will help give you a clear idea of what height to install certain lights to avoid shadows and the right style for the space you're creating.
In addition to dramatic lighting fixtures, you can use a combination of lights to create visual interest, whether it's to highlight a specific fitting or complement it. From different colours, stained-glass, and unique shapes, there's a unique lighting fixture to suit every bath room.
The right IP rating
Whatever scheme you design, always check the IP rating to ensure your preferred lighting fixture can withstand the water and moisture in the bathroom. Not every light is suitable for bathroom use and if you're worried about IP ratings or don't understand what you're looking for, speak to your renovation contractor for advice.
This should provide you with plenty of information to start your lighting plan, but once you've settled on the perfect scheme, be sure to reach out to a qualified electrician to handle the installation.
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