Such a vital element of any good bathroom design, lighting should never be an afterthought, and should always feature at the top of your list of priorities when renovating your bathroom.
Overlooking lighting when renovating your bathroom can be the difference between you enjoying spending time in the space and being able to carry out all the required functions, and you being frustrated and annoyed that you let such an important component slide, because now you don’t have the right levels of lighting that you need. But, even if you understand the importance of good lighting in a bathroom, how do you choose the right type and level of lighting for the space?
To help you master lighting when renovating your bathroom, here are some useful tips:
Think about layering the lighting
Layered lighting involves the use of a number of different types of light to illuminate a room, and this usually starts with an overhead light. Then, extra layers of lighting are added, which can include vanity, tub and shower lights. Some spaces may also benefit from table lamps or sconces to give an accent to the space, and don’t forget to incorporate natural lighting where possible. Natural light is hard to beat, but of course once the sun goes down, you’ll need to illuminate the space with artificial lighting.
Consider ambient lighting
This is the type of light that can be described as general, and which fills the whole room. The first layer of lighting that you choose should give off a pleasing, comfortable amount of light; not too dim and not too glaring either. Natural light contributes to ambient lighting, as do overhead fixtures, track and recessed lighting. Acting as a backdrop to the entire lighting system, it should provide consistent illumination for every corner of the room.
Make sure there is ample task lighting
Typically found around or above the vanity, task lighting should give a layer of light sufficient to provide shadowless illumination for such tasks as applying makeup or shaving. Task lighting should be a standard feature of any bathroom, irrespective of its size.
Illuminate the tub and shower
It’s important that getting into the tub or shower is made easy for people of all ages, and for this, it’s necessary for them to be able to see clearly as they enter and exit them. While the size and dimensions of the room will largely dictate how many of these lights should be installed, two or three is usually more than enough.
Add accent lighting
Adding another layer to the overall lighting plan of a bathroom, accent lights do have a purpose, although they are generally considered as design elements. They aren’t intended to light up the whole space, but rather to help create an ambient, relaxing, and restful feel, such as what you might find in a spa.
Don’t underestimate size and placement
Bathrooms are functional spaces, much like kitchens, and so it’s important not to get too caught up in creating restful lighting alone. Otherwise, you may find yourself getting frustrated when you need a quick shower before work, or when the kids are getting ready for school and time is of the essence. Bathroom lighting must be sufficient, appropriate, and carefully positioned. Big fixtures for a small space will overwhelm, too little lighting will make the room dark and appear smaller, while poorly positioned lights will make simple tasks hard to complete properly.
Consult with a bathroom designer for further advice and guidance regarding the renovation as a whole, but above all else, never neglect lighting in your newly renovated space, or you will regret it.