It is challenging to choose the correct lighting for your bathroom. The bathtub, shower, and vanity all require unique light fixtures, but you must also ensure they don’t differ too much to maintain a cohesive style. Moreover, the bathroom is where you prepare for the day and dress before going out, so it needs proper lighting to ensure you’re always presentable.
Here are several bathroom lighting consideration factors to make your space as relaxing as possible.
Use a Layered Approach
A layered approach allows you to customise lighting to perform different functions. For instance, overhead lighting ensures the entire room is well-illuminated. Adjustable inner cabinet lighting makes it easy to access the items in storage, while backlit mirrors add beauty and allow you to groom at any time of the day.
Also, natural lighting creates the illusion of space. It also lowers your bills by eliminating the need for artificial lighting during the day. On the other hand, dimmable fixtures allow you to create varying moods in your powder room.
The warmth or coolness of each layer depends on the intended use, so keep this in mind when installing the light fixtures.
Choose the Right Temperature
Colour temperature has a significant effect on the mood you want to create. It also influences functionality. Generally, brighter lights are suitable for grooming, while dimmer options are ideal for relaxing in the bathtub.
Colour temperature is measured in Kelvins. Here are some of the popular ranges for light fixtures.
- 2700 to 3000 Kelvin– is the typical range for incandescent bulbs. It provides a warm tone and is ideal for overhead lighting.
- 3000 to 4000 Kelvin– creates a yellow or white light slightly cooler than incandescent bulbs. It’s produced by LED lights and is ideal for the vanity area because it’s gentler than incandescent bulbs.
- 4000 to 5000 Kelvin– is a neutral white light produced by halogen and LED lights. It works bests on dressing tables.
- Over 5000 Kelvin –comes from the sun or high-powered bulbs and is ideal for detailed visibility.
When designing your bathroom, use different bulb types and temperatures to meet your style and functionality needs.
Moisture Ratings
Despite its importance, many people overlook moisture ratings when installing bathroom lights. If you want your light fixtures to last, you must shield them and their wiring from the damp bathroom environment. The shielding also guarantees overall safety for your house.
When purchasing bathroom lights, they have some level of waterproofing. Remember, humidity can build up and interfere with the lights, even if they’re not directly exposed to water.
The bulbs above the shower, bathtub, and sink must be waterproof. However, you can use regular bulbs if the room has adequate ventilation and a working exhaust fan.
Choose the Right Size
The size and style of your bathroom dictate the right size for your light fixtures. For example, the sconces on either side of your dressing mirror should be 25% to 50% of its size. If your room has multiple tubs or showers, use a bulb above each to make the space feel larger.
Pendant lights and chandeliers can make the space feel palatial for bigger bathrooms. However, you must ensure they match other decorative elements to create visual harmony.
Use Similar Finishes
Although using similar styles in all your lighting layers is not mandatory, using the same finish is valuable if you want to achieve a cohesive outlook. Chrome and brass finishes are popular because they can easily complement most bathroom accessories. This allows you to use different bulbs without risking a mess.
Wrapping Up
The bathroom should be a place to unwind after a stressful day and a space to light up your mood in preparation for the day’s events. Use the tips above to transform a bland powder room into a relaxation paradise.
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