Opening up a windowless bathroom can seem daunting, but with some creative ideas, you can transform the space into an inviting oasis. Natural light and views create an airy, spa-like ambiance, while clever layouts give the illusion of more space. With thoughtful touches like mirrors, colors, and accessories, your bathroom can feel bright and expansive, even without windows. Here are 5 ideas to open up a windowless bathroom.
Use Mirrors to Reflect Light
Strategically placed mirrors can help bounce light around a windowless bathroom, making the space feel more open and airy. Consider the following ways to use mirrors:
- Install a large mirror above the vanity to visually expand the room. Aim for a mirror that spans the entire width of the vanity.
- Add a mirrored medicine cabinet for more reflective surface area. Opt for one with lights around the mirror.
- Incorporate small decorative mirrors on the walls. Hang them across from each other to reflect even more light.
- Choose mirror-faced cabinets and shelving. The reflective facades help brighten up the space.
- Select glossy surfaces like polished stone or glass for the shower/tub surround. The shine adds depth.
Mirrors reflect light and create the illusion of more space in a windowless bathroom. Place them strategically across from light fixtures and other mirrors to maximize brightness. The more mirrors, the brighter the space will feel.
Install Skylights for Natural Light
Skylights are a great way to flood a windowless bathroom with natural light from above. There are several skylight options:
- Glass skylights – These are essentially windows installed in the ceiling. Tube skylights have reflective tunnels to amplify light.
- Plastic dome skylights – Acrylic or polycarbonate domes are affordable. Some have frosted or prismatic panels to diffuse light.
- Solar tube skylights – Also known as sun tunnels, these have exterior tubes that channel sunlight in from the roof.
- Flat skylights – Low-profile glass or plastic panels install flush with the ceiling. Easy to waterproof.
- Electric skylights – Skylight fixtures with LED lamps provide “natural” light. A cost-effective option.
Properly positioned skylights can flood a dark bathroom with sunshine. South-facing spots get the most ambient light during the day. Diffusers soften harsh overhead light. Consider solar-powered skylights to reduce wiring.
Paint the Walls Light Colors
The color of the walls dramatically affects how open a windowless bathroom feels. Light, bright colors make spaces appear larger and more airy. Consider these pale paint colors to open up the space:
- Whites like Swiss Coffee or White Dove
- Soft greens like Pistachio Ice Cream or Tradewind
- Airy blues like Sky Blue or Baby’s Breath
- Warm grays like Gray Owl or Classic Silver
- Soothing lavenders like Wisteria or Lilac Love
Stay away from dark, saturated colors like navy or burgundy. Stick to matte or eggshell finishes, which spread light better than glossy paints. Paint the ceiling a lighter tone than the walls to create a spacious look. Add accent walls with lighter colors or wallpaper.
Install Recessed Ceiling Lights
Recessed can lighting helps make a dark bathroom feel bright and expansive. Fixtures are installed flush with the ceiling, casting focused task lighting. Opt for:
- LED recessed lights – Energy-efficient with natural-looking light. Dimmable.
- Color-changing LEDs – Set mood lighting with different hues. Great for ambiance.
- High-output options – Extra-bright for large bathrooms. Use more fixtures.
- Adjustable trims – Rotate and pivot lights to target key areas.
- Perimeter placement – Install around edges to wash light over walls.
- Zoned lighting – Separate switches for shower, toilet, sink areas.
Recessed lighting paired with mirrors magnifies brightness. Place lights to avoid shadows. Use lighting controls like dimmers and motion sensors.
Choose Light, Reflective Finishes
The finishes you choose for surfaces like floors, countertops, and showers also impact how bright a bathroom feels. Lighter, reflective materials spread light around the space better than dark, matte finishes. Consider:
Floors
- Light natural stone like limestone or travertine
- Grey washed wood plank floors
- Glossy porcelain or ceramic tile
- Vinyl plank flooring in pale wood looks
- Polished concrete floors with a brightener
Countertops
- White quartz like Pearl Gray or White Storm
- Marble, especially lighter Italian Carrara
- Quartzite like Taj Mahal or Nacar
- Solid surface options like Corian Glacier White
- Glass countertops, perfect for reflecting light
Showers
- Full-height white subway tile
- Metallic glass tile in soft finishes like satin
- Quartz shower surrounds or ultra-compact surface
- Large-format polished porcelain plank tile
- Glossy acrylic wall panels in whites
Lighter finishes don’t absorb as much light, and glossy surfaces provide shine. However, watch for glare on extremely reflective materials. Balance with some matte accents.
Maximize Light Fixtures
Take full advantage of every light source when illuminating a windowless bathroom. Layer ambient, task, and accent lighting to make the space glow.
Ambient Lighting
Brightens the whole room. Use:
- Flush or semi-flush ceiling mounts like chandeliers
- Line voltage track lighting
- Recessed can lights
- Wall sconces
Task Lighting
Focused lights for functional use, like:
- Vanity strip lighting and mirrors
- Undercabinet lighting
- Shelving/display lights
- Showerhead fixtures with lights
Accent Lighting
Adds depth and style. Try:
- Pendant lights over sink or tub
- Toe-kick lighting under cabinets
- Mirror sconces and backlit mirrors
- Step/pathway lighting
Control settings like dimmers allow you to set the right mood lighting. Automated smart lighting saves energy. Place fixtures near mirrors to maximize illumination.
Frequently Asked Questions About Opening Up a Windowless Bathroom
How can I make a windowless bathroom appear brighter?
The best ways to brighten up a windowless bathroom include installing mirrors, adding recessed lighting, painting the walls light colors, choosing reflective finishes, and using plenty of lighting fixtures like sconces and pendant lights.
What color should I paint a windowless bathroom?
Light, airy paint colors will make a dark bathroom feel more open. Good options include soft white, pale blue, light green, warm gray, or subtle lavender/purple. Stick to light tints rather than bold hues.
Should a small windowless bathroom have dark or light colors?
A small windowless bathroom will look larger and brighter with pale, light colors on the walls, ceilings, and floors. Dark dramatics colors tend to make windowless bathrooms feel cramped and dim.
What type of flooring opens up a small bathroom?
Light-colored, reflective flooring is ideal for small, windowless bathrooms. Options like vinyl plank, limestone tile, and linoleum visually expand the space. Avoid dark tiles or carpeting.
Where should lighting go in a windowless bathroom?
Focus lighting near mirrors and the shower/tub area. Install an overhead fixture to wash light evenly over the room. Use perimeter can lights, wall sconces, and vanity task lighting as well.
Should I get an electric skylight for a windowless bathroom?
Electric skylights can provide natural-looking light in a windowless bathroom. LED technology offers energy efficiency and custom lighting settings. Make sure to waterproof properly.
Conclusion
Don’t be disheartened by a lack of windows in your bathroom. With thoughtful design choices like mirrors, skylights, light colors, strategic lighting, and reflective finishes, you can make a windowless bathroom feel infinitely more open and airy. Take time to properly waterproof any installations to avoid moisture issues. Focus lighting in key areas for safety and function. Most importantly, look for creative ways to infuse natural light through sun tunnels, electric skylights, and even artificial windows. With the right techniques, your windowless bathroom can feel bright, expansive, and welcoming.
