Function & Space
Are Important Considerations When It Comes To Bathroom
Lighting
Many of us do not consider the importance of good bathroom
lighting. The bath is usually one of the smallest rooms in a
home yet it is used by every family member numerous times a
day. This area needs proper lighting for applying makeup,
shaving, styling hair and daily hygiene tasks.
There are three types of light sources that should be
considered when looking for bathroom lighting: task, ambient
and accent lighting. Task lighting is basically a light
source that helps illuminate the area during tasks such as
shaving and makeup application and removal. These lights are
best used in conjunction with the mirror and the shower
area.
You will want your task lighting to be even and not
shadow-producing. Light fixtures on each side of the mirror
offers the best light source without casting shadows. If you
can not utilize side lights, overhead lighting can be used
as long as the bulbs are around 150 watts and there are at
least three lights to distribute shadow-free lighting.
Recessed bathroom lighting for mirrors is not a good idea
because they will cast shadows. If your shower area does not
have a glass stall, recessed lighting works well. You will
want a glass lens over the recessed light. These are also
useful for over the toilet.
Ambient light is the filler light. These lights fill in the
shadowed areas. You could think of ambient light as the
substitute for natural daylight. The center ceiling mount
light is the usual choice. The bulb can be 80 to 100 watt.
Ambient light is softer than task bathroom lighting.
One interesting idea for ambient bathroom lighting is to use
the rope lights or “cove” lights. These are lights that are
hidden behind molding and fixtures. This light source
radiates a soft glow throughout the room without the use of
a ceiling light.
Accent bathroom lighting is the use of a single light to
draw attention to a particular object. Often times Accent
lighting is used for paintings or statues. Accent lighting
is not a very practical light option for small bathrooms.
A great way to conserve energy is to use dimmers. Setting a
dimmer light at a lower setting than 100 percent will save
on your energy bill. Safety is also very important. Water
and electricity are often dangerous companions and
consulting a professional before relighting your bathroom is
always a good idea.
Using task, ambient and accent light sources in layers is
the key to effective bathroom lighting that allows function
and comfortable space as your bathroom.
Related Topic:
Bathroom Vanity Light