Bathroom Lighting Ideas

1. Task lighting

It is the one room where you need lighting for specific tasks; be it for the application of make-up, shaving or cleansing. There are multiple ways this can be achieved with light either side of the face, it could be a backlit mirror, wall lights or pendants either side of the mirror – not only does it look stylish, but it’s also practical. 

Avoid down-lights straight above your head as this tends to cast an unflattering shadow over your face. Backlit lighting in mirrors is a popular choice as provides a better source of lighting and also casts a soft glow on the wall behind for ambient lighting.

2. Ambient lighting

To create a spa-like ambiance, use LED strip lighting to cast a soft glow under basin units, or gently wash the back wall of a bathroom for a beautiful statement. This effect is almost like putting nightlights around – it is the instant spa at the flick of a switch. Why not make a feature of a freestanding bath by placing up-lighters either behind it or in the floor?

Remember, the colour of ambient lighting can completely change the mood of the room. These can be neutral or warm white. Neutral white will not distort other colours used in the bathroom and some Kelvins are practically daylight clear which is great if you have no windows in the bathroom. Other people will prefer a soft glow – so warmer white tones will suit best. 

3. Accent and Night lighting

Why not add another layer of depth to your bathroom by highlighting certain features in the room, it may be in a recess where you have a display of gorgeous bottles. LED spot lights can be used to throw light on specific areas, or led strip lights can cast a background glow, highlighting the whole recess. With the addition of low level sensor lighting, which comes on automatically as you enter provides ideal lighting for night-time visits to the bathroom.