Illuminating your bathroom with natural light while also maintaining privacy can be a challenge. The right bathroom window design is key to achieving both. Fortunately, there are several effective options that allow you to pull in light from the outdoors and add a layer of privacy when desired.
Skylights
Skylights are an excellent way to flood a bathroom with natural light from above. Positioned on angled ceilings or as part of vertical light tubes, skylights allow sunlight to penetrate deep into a bathroom. They come in clear, frosted, and opaque glass options. Clear glass skylights let in the most light, while frosted and opaque glass diffuses the light to obscure views and enhance privacy.
Benefits of Skylights
- Allow sunlight to reach interior bathrooms not located on exterior walls.
- Can be left open to allow fresh air flow.
- Frosted and opaque glass options provide privacy.
- Come in small sizes perfect for compact bathrooms.
- Energy efficient, especially tubular skylights.
- Enhance aesthetics with architectural appeal.
Considerations for Skylights
- Installation can be complicated, especially for angled/vaulted ceilings.
- Risk of leaks if not properly installed.
- Can allow in excessive heat during summer if not properly shaded.
- Opaque and frosted glass reduce light transmission.
- Not a viable option for all bathrooms based on location and architectural constraints.
Transom Windows
Transom windows are positioned above eye level, often over a doorway or larger window. They allow light into a bathroom while obscuring views from outside. For privacy, transom windows can be made of patterned, stained, or frosted glass. They open up overhead wall space to natural illumination without compromising privacy.
Benefits of Transom Windows
- Allow light in while obscuring views due to high placement.
- Can be coordinated with door and window designs.
- Come in variety of sizes to fit tight spaces or provide ample overhead lighting.
- Can be left open for ventilation if out of reach.
- Frosted glass provides privacy while allowing light transmission.
Considerations for Transom Windows
- Limited privacy if clear glass is used.
- Too high for views and ventilation for some users.
- Can make overhead wall space difficult to decorate.
- Frosted glass reduces light penetration.
Obscured Glass
Using frosted, stained, tinted, patterned, or pebbled glass on bathroom windows obscures views from outside while still allowing natural light transmission. This is an easy way to transform a standard window into one that protects privacy. The degree of obscurity can be selected based on the level of privacy desired.
Benefits of Obscured Glass
- Provides privacy while allowing light to penetrate.
- Can be applied as a film to existing glass.
- Available in wide range of textures and patterns.
- Can be combined with standard glass for interior views.
- Allows flexibility in controlling privacy and light.
Considerations for Obscured Glass
- Reduces clarity of views and light transmission.
- Can darken interior space if tinted glass is too dark.
- Patterns and textures may not suit all decors.
- Can be expensive to replace existing glass.
- Film applications vulnerable to scratches and damage over time.
Bathroom Clerestory Windows
Clerestory windows are installed high on walls just below the ceiling. Oriented vertically, clerestory windows allow light and fresh air to enter while obscuring direct views into a bathroom due to their elevated position. They can be coordinated with blinds or opaque shades when additional privacy is desired.
Benefits of Clerestory Windows
- Allow indirect light to penetrate deep into a bathroom.
- High placement maintains privacy.
- Can be opened for ventilation.
- Complement many architectural styles.
- Come in a range of sizes to fit any space.
Considerations for Clerestory Windows
- Limited privacy without shades or blinds.
- Placement can make walls difficult to decorate.
- Size and placement may restrict airflow.
- Light blocked when shades or blinds are closed for privacy.
Slanted or Angled Bathroom Windows
Slanted, angled, or sloped bathroom windows allow indirect light to filter into a bathroom while making it difficult to see directly into the room. With views obstructed from typical standing heights outside, privacy is enhanced. Opaque glass or blinds can provide further privacy control.
Benefits of Slanted Windows
- Light enters from creative angles.
- Views obstructed from standard sight lines.
- Can match unique architectural designs and styles.
- Further privacy control with shades and opaque glass.
Considerations for Slanted Windows
- Limited privacy without additional treatments.
- May not suit all decors and color schemes.
- Creative window washing and cleaning required.
- Strict privacy still requires window treatments.
Bathroom Skylights With Blinds
Skylights outfitted with versatile window blinds allow optimal control over bathroom lighting and privacy. Blinds can be adjusted to let in abundant light when privacy isn’t required. For full privacy, blackout blinds can block both light and views. Remote-controlled blinds offer convenient access for adjusting settings.
Benefits of Skylights With Blinds
- Total control over privacy and desired light levels.
- Blinds tailor settings to specific needs and uses.
- No need for additional window treatments.
- Enhance energy efficiency when closed.
- Easy to control with convenient remotes.
Considerations for Skylights With Blinds
- Require cleaning and maintenance of blinds and controls.
- Remote controls require battery replacement.
- Blackout blinds block all light penetration when closed.
- Can be expensive options for installation and controls.
- Moving parts prone to malfunction over time.
Smart Glass Bathroom Windows
Smart glass windows offer the ultimate in versatility and customization of light transmission and privacy. Electronically tintable glass can shift between transparent and opaque. Smart windows clear on command for daylighting and views or frost over for obscurity.
Benefits of Smart Glass
- Total control over privacy and light levels.
- Adjust settings instantly with electronic tinting.
- Retain views while obscuring from outside.
- No need for supplementary window treatments.
- Enhance room aesthetics with sleek, high-tech windows.
Considerations for Smart Glass
- More expensive than traditional glass and windows.
- Can take time to shift between settings.
- Require power source for operation.
- Electronics, controls, wiring prone to malfunction.
- Block all light when opaque setting is engaged.
Bathroom Windows With Internal Blinds
Bathroom windows manufactured with internal blinds sandwiched between glass panes provide built-in privacy and light control. Blinds lower and raise within the window construction to regulate light penetration and views.
Benefits of Internal Blinds
- Blinds are protected from damage inside glass panels.
- Do not require cleaning as exterior mounts do.
- Smooth interior window appearance when blinds retracted.
- Eliminate need for additional window treatments.
- Convenient controls located at window.
Considerations for Internal Blinds
- More expensive than standard windows.
- Motors and mechanisms may require repair.
- Difficult to replace individual blind slats if damaged.
- Reduced views and light penetration with blinds lowered.
- Limited control options compared to external blinds.
Sliding Barn Door for Bathroom
Installing a sliding barn door style bathroom door allows obscuring views into the bath while letting light filter around the door perimeter. For full privacy, pair with a frosted glass sliding door. The sliding mechanism eliminates swing clearance requirements.
Benefits of Barn Door
- Gradual or full privacy control.
- Distinctive rustic/industrial style statement.
- Light enters around sliding door.
- Saves space with sliding mechanism.
- Hardware allows custom finishing.
Considerations for Barn Door
- Sliding operation can be noisy.
- May not suit all decors and aesthetics.
- Requires adequate wall space for door to slide.
- Automatic closing options prone to malfunction.
- Limited auditory privacy.
Bathroom Window Films
Aftermarket window films offer a simple and affordable way to modify existing bathroom windows for increased privacy. Tinting, frosting, staining, or patterning films can be added to glass without replacing windows. Opt for re-positionable films for long-term flexibility.
Benefits of Window Films
- Inexpensive solution for existing windows.
- Residential installation requires no special tools.
- Retain light transmission while obscuring views.
- Flexible options for desired privacy levels.
- Can be removed or replaced to alter privacy.
Considerations for Window Films
- Can trap heat and warp glass if improperly installed.
- Temporary air bubbles may form during installation.
- Non-removable films very difficult to remove.
- Can peel over time, requiring replacement.
- Not durable enough for commercial applications.
Bathroom Window Shades
Window shades in translucent fabrics or materials allow daylight to filter into a bathroom while also providing privacy. Maximize privacy with blackout shades that fully block views and light. Adjustable shades give flexibility in controlling privacy and light levels.
Benefits of Bathroom Shades
- Offer varying degrees of privacy control.
- Materials diffuse incoming light.
- Easily raise or lower to adjust settings.
- Inexpensive and easy to install.
- Come in convenient roller shades.
Considerations for Bathroom Shades
- Fabrics and materials show dirt and require cleaning.
- May not complement all decors.
- Blackout shades block views and light penetration.
- Allow some light leakage around edges when drawn.
- Must be raised for access to window.
Bathroom Windows With Etched Glass
Glass etched with patterns, textures, and designs obscures views from outside while transmitting soft, diffused light. Available in frosted or clear glass with light-catching etched designs. Provides a decorative touch while enhancing privacy.
Benefits of Etched Glass
- Obscures direct views while transmitting light.
- Available in range of elegant designs.
- Made from durable glass to prevent fading.
- Etching provides permanent privacy solution.
- Enhances bathroom aesthetics.
Considerations for Etched Glass
- Expensive, specialty glass increases window costs.
- Intricate etching can weaken glass.
- Reduces clarity of views from inside.
- Cannot alter level of privacy once etched.
- Limits transmitted light levels.
Bathroom Windows With Built-In Blinds
Factory integrated blinds between glass window panes provide adjustable privacy and light control without requiring cleaning. Blinds raise and lower within windows to modulate privacy and light penetration as needed.
Benefits of Built-In Blinds
- Blinds protected from damage within windows.
- Eliminate need for cleaning dusty blinds.
- Improve appearance with no visible blinds.
- Convenient controls at window.
- Ability to adjust privacy and lighting.
Considerations for Built-In Blinds
- More expensive than standard windows.
- Components prone to malfunction.
- Glass must be replaced to repair damaged blinds.
- Limited control options compared to exterior mounts.
- Block light when lowered for privacy.
Bathroom Windows With Removable Frosting Film
Removable window frosting film allows applying or removing obscured glass effects. When more privacy is desired, the film can frost the glass to obscure views. To allow more light transmission, simply remove the film.
Benefits of Removable Frosting Film
- Inexpensive, temporary frosting solution.
- Residential application is easy and requires no special tools.
- Allows flexibility in privacy and light levels.
- Doesn’t permanently alter existing glass.
- Available in a variety of frosting levels.
Considerations for Removable Frosting Film
- Sheet film prone to bubbling during installation.
- Can trap heat and damage glass if installed improperly.
- Temporary air pockets and creases may be visible.
- Prone to scratching, peeling and requiring replacement.
- Not very durable for commercial applications.
Solar Tubes for Interior Bathroom Light
Rigid solar tubes with reflective interior surfaces channel sunlight from roof mounted domes into interior bathroom spaces. This allows harvesting natural light even for bathrooms without exterior facing windows.
Benefits of Solar Tubes
- Provide natural light without electricity.
- Effective for windowless, interior bathrooms.
- Durable aluminum and acrylic construction.
- Reflective tubes prevent light leakage.
- Come in compact sizes for tight spaces.
Considerations for Solar Tubes
- Difficult for DIY installation in attics and roofing.
- Require nearly vertical ceiling orientation.
- Acrylic prone to yellowing and cracking over time.
- Supplemental lighting still recommended.
- Leaking risks if improperly waterproofed.
Rainfall Showerheads for Natural Spa Experience
Invigorating rainfall showerheads transform ordinary showers into relaxing, spa-like hydrotherapy. Wide shower heads with nozzles simulate the effect of bathing in a gentle spring rain. Rainfall showers provide tranquil relaxation.
Benefits of Rainfall Showers
- Provide relaxing, stress-relieving shower experience.
- Large water droplets gently cleanse without feeling abrasive.
- Wide coverage from large diameter shower heads.
- Reduce anxiety and promote tranquility.
- Contemporary style makes a stylish statement.
Considerations for Rainfall Showers
- Requires minimum 2.5 gpm water flow rating.
- Not suitable for low water pressure plumbing.
- Installation may require plumbing modifications.
- Needs water drainage for larger spray areas.
- Difficult to restrict water spray coverage.
Shower Grab Bars for Slip Resistance
Sturdy grab bars in showers provide stability while transitioning wet, slippery surfaces. This helps prevent dangerous slips and falls. Grab bars come in assorted lengths, shapes and finishes to integrate seamlessly with any shower design.
Benefits of Shower Grab Bars
- Enhance bather stability on slippery shower surfaces.
- Provide support entering/exiting showers.
- Instill confidence for elderly or disabled users.
- Help prevent dangerous and painful falls.
- Fixtures designed to support full body weight.
Considerations for Shower Grab Bars
- Improper installation risks grab bars pulling out of wall.
- Limit shower space and range of motion for some users.
- Institutional looking bars may not suit all decors.
- Don’t eliminate falls risk entirely.
- Ongoing inspection required to check for loose fittings.
Towel Warming Radiators for Spa Luxury
Warm, refreshed towels straight out of the shower promote relaxation while preventing chills. Hydronic and electric towel warmers conveniently heat towels, eliminating cold and dampness. Treat yourself to luxury!
Benefits of Towel Warmers
- Towels warmed to your desired temperature.
- Convenient designs integrate with decor.
- Quickly dry damp towels preventing mildew.
- Hydronic models utilize existing heating systems.
- Operate as both towel warmer and heater.
Considerations for Towel Warmers
- Electric models can be fire hazard if contacts are exposed.
- Use energy, increasing costs.
- Hydronic systems require professional installation.
- Units and towels can get dangerously hot.
- Only heat small number of towels at one time.
Bathroom Chandeliers for Glamour
Chandeliers lend an elegant, glamorous statement to bathroom decor. Available in dazzling crystal, modern metallics, and vintage chic candle-lit designs. Bathroom chandeliers make everyday routines feel special.
Benefits of Bathroom Chandeliers
- Create an elegant, opulent ambiance.
- Broad selection across design aesthetics.
- Many damp-rated fixtures for humid areas.
- Instant focal point and conversation starter.
- Dimming lets you set desired mood lighting.
Considerations for Bathroom Chandeliers
- Most require hardwiring by an electrician.
- Bulb changes can be difficult due to lofty heights.
- Need frequent cleaning to maintain luster.
- Risk of shades discoloring from humidity and moisture.
- Not suited for low, sloped, or drop ceilings.
Automated Soap Dispensers
Automated touchless soap dispensers permit easy, hygienic hand washing without spreading germs from the soap dish itself. Motion sensor dispensers place just the right amount of soap on hands.
Benefits of Automated Dispensers
- Completely touchless for maximum hygiene.
- Dispense pre-measured amounts to prevent waste.
- Easy, convenient one-handed use.
- Modern look for contemporary bathrooms.
- Aid infection control in healthcare settings.
Considerations for Automated Dispensers
- Require battery or electrical outlet.
- Refills are more expensive than basic soap.
- May dispense soap too slowly for some users.
- Motion sensors prone to malfunction.
- Dispensed soap amount cannot be adjusted.
Bathroom Sun Tunnels
Sun tunnels channel natural overhead daylight into interior windowless bathrooms via roof domes and reflective tubing. This brightens spaces without requiring electrical lighting during daytime.
Benefits of Sun Tunnels
- Provides free, naturally bright lighting.
- Effective for core bathrooms without windows.
- Lightweight, easy components for attic installation.
- Reflective tubes prevent light leakage or heat gain.
- Domes come in inconspicuous sizes.
Considerations for Sun Tunnels
- Professional installation best for roofing penetrations.
- Maximum light when tunnel vertically aligned.
- Acrylic components prone to yellowing over time.
- Suppresses rather than eliminates need for artificial lighting.
- Leaking risks
