Bathrooms should be sanctuaries where we start and end each day. Relaxing havens that we enjoy spending time in.

In fact, your bathroom is probably the one room in the house where you spend time alone; somewhere tranquil and away from the madding crowd, even if you only manage to escape for a brief time.

The atmosphere of your bathroom can be greatly enhanced by the clever and creative use of lighting. We’ve moved on from the days of the traditional opaque white glass globe ceiling light being the only source of illumination for a boring bathroom.

When you invest in a beautiful new modern bathroom the choice of lighting is just as important as the tiles and tapware – if not more so. So, lets take a look at how to make your bathroom shine.

The Three Basics of Bathroom Lighting

Interior design experts recognise three primary types of bathroom lighting:

• Ambient Lighting: This provides overall illumination for the room. It’s typically achieved with overhead fixtures like recessed lights or chandeliers.
• Task Lighting: Designed for specific activities, like shaving, applying makeup, or reading, task lighting focuses on a particular area. Vanity lights and mirror-mounted fixtures are common examples.
• Accent Lighting: Used to highlight architectural features or create a mood, accent lighting adds depth and drama to the bathroom. This could involve wall sconces, under-cabinet lights, or LED strip lighting.

The positioning and lumen strength of each of these types of lighting are combined in a carefully planned scheme to create the desired atmosphere of the bathroom space.

Set the Mood with Ambient Lighting

The foundation of your bathroom’s atmosphere is the ambient lighting. For a serene and spa-like feel, opt for soft, diffused light. Recessed lights with frosted glass diffusers can create a gentle glow. Alternatively, a large, pendant light with a translucent shade can add a touch of elegance.

Consider the size of your bathroom when choosing the number of lights. A small space might require just one or two overhead fixtures, while a larger room may benefit from multiple lights.

Task Lighting for Functionality and Style

Good task lighting is essential for everyday activities. You don’t want to end up squinting into the mirror when you’re shaving or applying make-up. Vanity lights are a must-have for getting ready in the morning or before retiring for the night. Choose fixtures that provide even, bright illumination without creating harsh shadows. Wall-mounted sconces, for example, can offer a flattering light while adding a decorative element.

For bathrooms with ample counter space, consider under-cabinet lighting. This provides additional illumination for tasks, and it also adds a modern touch.

Accent Lighting for Drama and Visual Impact

Accent lighting can elevate your bathroom’s design and turn features into focal points. Wall sconces and floodlights placed strategically can highlight arresting artwork or architectural elements. LED strip lighting installed along the bathtub or shower can create a mesmerising glow.

For a truly luxurious experience, consider incorporating dimmers into your lighting scheme. This allows you to adjust the intensity of the light to suit different moods and activities. For example you’ll want everything bright and cheerful when you’re bathing the kids, but prefer a more soothing glow when you’re having a de-stressing soak.

Natural Light and Safety in the Bathroom

Finally, just a note of caution. Don’t get so carried away with lighting up your bathroom for aesthetic purposes that you forget the safety aspect of good lighting in the bathroom.

A bathroom can be a hazardous environment, especially for the very young or the elderly, so rather than risk slips and falls – especially during night-time visits – make sure everyone can see where they’re going. Also ensure that light fixtures used in the bathroom comply with regulations as regards moisture ingress protection.

It’s also great if you have plenty of natural light available in your bathroom – there’s nothing like the real thing. So make the most of it and rather than blocking it out, let it in as part of the complete illumination plan.

Bathroom Experts in Bristol

If you’re remodelling your bathroom or wanting to install a new bathroom in or around Bristol then there’s only one place to go. Port Marine Bathrooms know all about bathrooms, wet rooms and en suites, including the best lighting options. We cover a wide area including the towns of Almondsbury, Bradley Stoke, Brean, Bristol, Nailsea, Thornbury, Yate, Wells, Weston-Super-Mare, and Yatton.

Visit our showroom in Portishead (BS20 7AN) for inspiration for your new bathroom. We also offer a complete kitchen design and fitting service and a bedroom design and fitting service across our area of operation. Contact us for free quotations, finance options and expert advice.