Leveraging Light for a Beautiful Bathroom
Let there be light!
… but where to put it in the bathroom?
Good lighting is essential when it comes to great bathroom design, for both functionality & ambience. When it comes to lighting, no matter which room in the house, a layered approach is the key. This is sadly often overlooked in the bathroom; it might be one of the smallest rooms in the house but with the right lighting it can still pack a punch! Here are our top tips to get your bathroom in the spotlight.
Natural Light – Nothing beats it! Natural light connects us to the outside world and helps regulate our circadian rhythms, whether it is waking us up in the morning or winding us down at night our body is programmed to respond to the light outside. Where windows are concerned the bigger the better – but don’t forget some screening unless you’re planning on putting on a show for the neighbours!
Translucent glass is the perfect way to let the light in without losing your privacy. Or if the orientation is right and you have the space consider planting some lush foliage outside your bathroom window.
If you are concerned about privacy, or you are short on wall space, then high windows are a great option for introducing light without compromising these other factors.
Bounce it around – Large mirrors are not only useful in a bathroom to ensure you step out looking your best, they can do wonders to increase the amount of light by bouncing it around the room… and don’t forget any reflective surface will do the same. A gloss tile option is a great means of increasing perceived space and light in a small bathroom.
Skylights – If, like in this recent project, the bathroom is in the middle of the house, a skylight is a fabulous option. Skylights add a special touch to any bathroom and I would always recommend adding one over the shower or bath where it is a possibility, with or without windows. I just love to be able to look straight up at the blue sky in the morning!
Layer your Lights
Now you have your natural light sorted, build up the other lighting you need for all the different bathroom uses of your bathroom:
- • BRIGHT LIGHT: for when you REALLY need to know how you look – wall sconces placed either side of the mirror are essential for makeup application, beard trimming and whatever else your morning routine may consist of – maybe both?! Placement at or just above eye level ensures an even light is cast across the face without any unsightly shadows from a downlight.
- • DON’T FORGET THE DIMMERS: Ah, dimmer switches—the unsung heroes of lighting design! Installing dimmers allows you to adjust the brightness according to your mood and the time of day. Dimming your lights during a relaxing bath can create a serene ambiance – a warm and low level light is essential for those long soaks in the tub – while brightening them up for your morning routine will help you start the day on the right foot.
- • NIGHT LIGHT: Aside from a gorgeous vanity, SENSOR STRIP LIGHTING mounted on the underside of the vanity gives a luxe hotel vibe that everyone should treat themselves to. No more fiddling around for the light switch & being blinded by the light in the middle of night! It gives a lovely warm glow to the room, so when you really don’t want to see what the day (or night!) has done to your face you can leave the rest of the lights off & go to bed feeling somewhat intact…
Consider the colour – YES light has colour. The colour temperature of your light bulbs can greatly impact the mood of your bathroom. Opt for warmer tones (around 2700-3000 Kelvin) for a cosy, spa-like atmosphere, while cooler tones (4000-5000 Kelvin) are perfect for a crisp, energising feel. Daylight downlights above the sink area can complement wall sconces for those occasions when you need ultimate clarity. Experiment with different temperatures to find the perfect balance for your space, this is as easy as changing a light bulb!
Mind Your Mirror – The mirror is the star of the show in any bathroom, so it deserves special attention when it comes to lighting. Ensure that your vanity lights are evenly spaced and mounted at eye level to minimise shadows and provide flattering illumination. If space allows, consider adding a backlit mirror for a modern touch.
Pay Attention to Placement: When installing your lighting fixtures, pay attention to placement to ensure optimal functionality and aesthetics. Avoid placing lights directly above the mirror, as this can cause unflattering shadows. Instead, position them on either side for even illumination. For ambient lighting, aim for uniform coverage throughout the space.
Accessorise with Style – Last but not least, don’t forget to accessorise! Light fixtures are not only functional but also decorative elements that can enhance your bathroom’s style. Choose fixtures that complement your existing decor—whether it’s sleek and modern or classic and timeless.
If you would like some help with your forthcoming renovation or interiors project please feel free to reach out to us here – we’d love to help you!
