Don’t let poor lighting throw shade on your newly renovated bathroom. Good lighting is essential to a successful bathroom renovation, yet it’s often overlooked or left till the end. Here at Ace Renovation Pros, with our 15 years of experience, we believe that the secret to effective bathroom lighting lies in a multi-layered approach, combining ambient, task, and accent lights. This blend results in a well-lit and inviting atmosphere that ensures safety and highlights the unique design features of your renovated bathroom.
Three Essential Types of Bathroom Lighting
Your bathroom serves multiple functions – from the practical to the luxurious. Hence, it’s vital to include all three types of lighting in your plan.
- Ambient Lighting
The foundation of any lighting plan, ambient lighting provides overall illumination to your bathroom, ensuring safety and easy movement. Overhead ceiling-mounted fixtures or recessed cans are the go-to choices. If space allows, innovate with chandeliers, pendants, or track lighting. Remember that ambient lighting alone won’t banish all shadows, especially in the sink area. Therefore, task lighting is essential.
- Task Lighting
Task lighting caters to specific actions performed at dedicated spots – the sink, tub, shower, and toilet. Lighting choices here are guided by the type of fixture, its location, and personal preference.
- For sink-related tasks like shaving, applying makeup, or inserting contact lenses, twin wall scones at eye level can eliminate shadows and reduce eyestrain. If wall space is constrained, overhead lighting fixtures or medicine cabinets with integrated lighting can serve the purpose without causing shadows or glare.
- Overhead lighting is necessary for the tub area, with recessed lighting being popular. However, if the tub is the bathroom’s centerpiece, consider a chandelier or track lighting directed at the tub area. To mimic the tranquility of a spa, consider installing a dimmer switch.
- Stick to recessed lighting for showers due to the high humidity and water splashes. Ensure that the faucet area and the floor or door where you step out are well-lit.
- Opt for recessed lighting to prevent accidental bumps if the toilet is secluded in a water closet.
- Accent Lighting
Accent lighting adds drama and highlights areas of visual interest, such as unique tilework, artwork, or a vanity. Recessed and track lighting work well for most accent purposes. Additionally, under-cabinet lighting can enhance cabinetry while doubling as a nightlight.
Lighting Safely in Your Bathroom
Safety regulations are paramount, given the proximity of electricity and water in the bathroom. Ace Renovation Pros ensures certified electricians assess the layout and obtain the necessary permits. Furthermore, all outlets are fitted with ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs). Any lighting fixture within a specific range of the tub or shower needs to be “wet” or “shower-location” rated. Keeping any table or floor lamp far from wet areas is essential to prevent accidents.
Lighting Special Bathroom Features
Along with function, bathroom lighting can also deliver style. Whether your taste is traditional or contemporary, there are wall and ceiling fixtures to match.
Integrated lighting in medicine cabinets, mirrors, or whirlpools can create a sleek look. Colored lights recessed in the tub surface can offer chromotherapy experiences while you soak.
The choice of the bulb and its brightness is equally crucial. Opt for warm lighting, closest to natural light, for ambient lighting. Generally, bathrooms utilize the equivalent of 75 to 100 watts incandescent bulbs. Consider 150 watts or their equivalent in compact fluorescent (CFL) or LEDs for fixtures around a mirror used for close-up activities.
Consider dimmers for task lighting to allow your eyes to adjust gradually in the mornings or to create a relaxing ambiance at night.
Occupancy sensor wall switches are an efficient feature that can automate bathroom lighting. The lights switch on when you enter and turn off when you leave.
Lastly, even if your bathroom includes windows, consider adding a skylight to fill the room with natural light, thus contributing to energy efficiency.
With Ace Renovation Pros, transform your bathroom into a sanctuary where the right lighting enhances safety and comfort, giving you the relaxing space you deserve.
