Pendant Lights
Pendant lights hanging above the vanity or tub add a decorative focal point while providing task lighting. Opt for simple globes, modern geometric shapes, or something more ornate like a chandelier for a touch of elegance. Pendants work in bathrooms of any size and style. Cluster several together over a double vanity or larger tub for greater visual impact.
Sconces
Mounted on the wall on either side of the mirror, sconces provide perfect accent lighting for grooming. Look for sconces with an adjustable arm so you can direct the light where needed most. Choose metal finishes like brushed nickel, oil-rubbed bronze or polished chrome to complement the faucets and other hardware. Upward facing sconces mounted along the walls also create ambient lighting.
Undercabinet Lights
Strip lighting installed under the cabinetry provides both task lighting for the vanity and soft ambient light for the whole room. LED tape lighting gives a very modern look. For a warmer ambiance, go for xenon or halogen. Dimmer switches allow adjusting the brightness as needed.
Recessed Can Lighting
Recessed can lights (also called downlights) installed in the ceiling cast broad, even illumination throughout the bathroom. Go for fixtures with adjustable heads to focus the light where required. For a soft glow, choose cans with translucent glass covers. Adding recessed lighting during a bathroom remodel is easy since the cans tuck away neatly out of view.
Flush Mount Ceiling Fixtures
Like recessed cans, flush mount ceiling fixtures distribute light evenly throughout the space. However, flush mount fixtures hang below the ceiling surface, making them a more decorative choice. Seek out simple, streamlined designs that don’t clash with the room’s style.
Track Lighting
With adjustable spotlights set in a slim track, track lights provide directed task lighting. Focus the beams over the tub, shower or vanity as needed. Tracks can be mounted on the ceiling or walls. Go for a straight section or bend the track to fit the space. The clean, minimalist look of track lighting suits contemporary bathrooms.
Chandeliers
For an elegant focal point, hang a small chandelier over the bathtub or vanity seating area. Opt for a style with dangling crystals, glass gems or curved arms that catch and reflect the light beautifully. Brass, chrome or nickel finishes complement both traditional and modern decors.
Wall Sconces
Mount decorative wall sconces on either side of the mirror for perfect accent lighting while grooming. Swing arms allow adjusting the direction, while up-down lighting casts both ambient and task lighting. Choose metal finishes like oil-rubbed bronze or antiqued brass that tie into the overall decor.
Vanity Bar Lighting
Installing LED or xenon lighting right under the vanity cabinet provides ideal task lighting for grooming and makeup application. Connect multiple fixtures together to span the whole cabinet. Go for simple metal bars or glass shelves with built-in lighting. Dimmer switches make it easy to control the brightness.
Bathroom Fan/Light Combos
Combination fan/light units installed in the ceiling serve double duty, ventilating the room while lighting it. Choose an ENERGY STAR model with LED or fluorescent bulbs for efficiency. Opt for fixtures with frosted glass for softened, dispersed light. Use the fan’s humidity-sensing controls to maintain air quality and reduce mold and mildew growth.
Skylights/Clerestories
Letting natural light flood in from above makes any bathroom feel more open and airy. Skylights can be installed flush with the ceiling or situated to form clerestories high on the walls. Position them to limit direct sun exposure while still capturing ample ambient light. Combining natural and artificial lighting works beautifully.
Nightlights
Discreet but powerful LED nightlights provide low-level illumination at night for visibility and safety. Install mini nightlights directly under the vanity cabinets. Wall-mounted motion sensor nightlights automatically turn on when someone enters the room. Place them near doors so they’re sure to activate when needed.
Waterproof Shower Lights
Lights installed inside the shower niche or recessed into the ceiling above the shower safely illuminate the stall. Waterproof LED fixtures work best. Opt for a warm light color to feel soothing and relaxing. Include a humidity-resistant exhaust fan nearby to keep moisture under control.
Mirror Lighting
Sconces or other fixtures mounted directly on the mirror frame aim light exactly where it’s needed most when grooming or applying makeup. Seek out horizontal bars or vertical strips with adjustable brightness. Lighted mirrors also come with magnification options, anti-fog heaters, and even built-in TVs.
Smart Lighting
Today’s smart light bulbs, switches and controllers allow customizing a bathroom’s ambiance via voice commands or an app. Set lighting scenes like “spa,” “bright” or “nightlight” for instant adjustments. Schedule lights to turn on gradually in the morning. Sync colors to match moods or complement your style.
Conclusion
When selecting bathroom lighting, consider the room’s size, layout, style and purpose. Task lighting at the vanity and in the shower is essential, while ambient light sets a comfortable mood. Mixing fixture types creates visual interest. Smart lighting adds next-level adjustability and automation. With so many options available, you’re sure to find just the right lights to make your bathroom shine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some tips for choosing bathroom light fixtures?
Some tips for choosing bathroom light fixtures include:
- Focus on lighting tasks like grooming at the vanity with sconces or undercabinet lights.
- Add ambient lighting with ceiling or wall fixtures to illuminate the whole space.
- Choose fixtures in finishes that match the faucets and other hardware.
- Look for ENERGY STAR models for efficiency.
- For moisture resistance, seek waterproof fixtures near showers and baths.
- Mix lighting types (overhead, accent, task) for visual interest.
What are pendant lights good for in a bathroom?
Pendant lights work well hung above the vanity or bathtub in a bathroom. They provide both focused task lighting and attractive decorative accent lighting. Multi-light pendants can span over a double vanity.
What is the most stylish lighting for a bathroom?
Some of the most stylish options for bathroom lighting include pendant lights, sconces, track lighting, chandeliers, vanity bar lighting, and smart lighting with adjustable colors and scenes. Choose the fixtures that best match your bathroom’s decor style.
How do you light a bathroom without overhead lighting?
If no overhead lighting exists, there are other options. Install sconces, pendants or recessed cans in the ceiling. Undercabinet LED strip lighting illuminates the vanity. Wall fixtures like track lighting or wall sconces provide ambient light.
Should bathroom lights be LED or fluorescent?
LED and fluorescent lights both work well in bathrooms. LED lasts longer, is more energy efficient, and comes in more color options. Fluorescent lights offer bright, affordable illumination but some people don’t like the bluish-white color. Ultimately, choose the bulb type you prefer.
