Photo Credit: SPG Architects - Photographer: Charles Lindsay 
When you think of sprucing up a drab bathroom your last thought it likely lighting. As something that is a main stay in every room of your house, it’s easy to forget its importance. However, in the bathroom, lighting may be one of the most important factors to consider.
Proper bathroom lighting will facilitate a number of aspects of the room as a whole. Interiordec.about.com suggests, “Proper bathroom lighting is important for safety reasons but it can also dramatically improve the look of the room, adding sparkle and shine to fixtures, fittings, and countertops.” Consider your three options: candles, lighting fixtures and natural light.
Candles
Candles are a cheap way to add a little extra light to your bathroom. For as little as five bucks a pop, you can introduce new colors, a new style and change the feeling of the room all together. Candles are also a great way to improve the ambiance, give a fresh scent and bring warmth to the room. There are a number of places you can place your candles – but keep proper safety measures in mind.
- Next to the tub: For a relaxing bath, candles may be all the light you need. Place a few near the tub, or store them away for bath time.
- On vanity: The vanity is a smart place to put candles. Out of reach of children and easily controlled, this allows you to keep candles in the bathroom with minimal danger.
- In shelving unit: Candles add an element of depth to the shelves making it more than just a place to put toiletries.
Lighting Fixtures
Choosing the right lighting fixture can make all the difference in the overall feel. Fluorescent lights, commonly found in bathrooms, are not ideal. There is nothing comfortable or appealing about this lighting as it emits a cold, yellow hue that is unappealing. HGTV.com suggests, “Designers now use dimmers, chandeliers and decorative wall sconces, low lights and high lights to bring a special look into the bathroom.” There are three spaces in the bathroom for lighting.
- Above the shower: This is an ideal spot for track lighting, allowing you to shed light into the shower area as well as into the main bathroom.
- On the mirror: Spruce up a plain mirror with the right lighting. Choose the classic large bulb style fixture or go for a decorative sconce.
- On the ceiling: Consider splurging on a budget friendly chandelier. This adds a touch of elegance and richness to an otherwise boring bathroom.
Natural Light
The best lighting you can utilize is natural light. Not only does this open up a room, but is cheaper and creates a sense of openness. Take a design tip from FineHomeBuilding.com: “The tiny, damp, and dingy interior bathroom with a little round light fixture in the ceiling is old-school.” Consider your window options.
- Curtain use: Be sure that you aren’t using curtains that keep all the light out. Even if you want privacy during a shower, you’ll still want to make use of the natural light. Utilize sheer drapes to make the most of the window.
- Adding a window: A great place to do this is above the shower in the form of a skylight. Then you’ll only need to worry about having proper lighting for the main part of the bathroom.
Lighting in your bathroom is incredibly important. While it’s easy to push to the side, your bathroom and visitors will thank you. Not only is it hazardous to lack the proper lighting, but it takes away from the bathroom design as a whole. When you have the right lighting, you can elevate the room to a new level.
Sara Fletcher enjoys learning about all aspects of the home ranging from antique bathroom vanities, interior design, and green furniture. She one day hopes to build her own dreamhome, complete with single vanities with sinks.
Photo Credits: HGTV.com – SPG Architects – Photography by Charles Lindsay
Photo Credit: Houzz.com -traditional bathroom design by other metros interior designer Shane D. Inman
Photo Credut: Houzz.com – Interior Design by Austin Interior Designer Greg Logsdon
