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Lighting for Bathrooms: How to Add Ambiance and Brightness To Your Day

Large traditional bathroom with double vanity and elegant cabinets

Lighting is essential for many spaces, more so in your bathroom. The lighting in a bathroom can have a big impact on your mood and how you feel about yourself. The right lighting can make you feel happy and relaxed, while the wrong lighting can make you feel self-conscious. When choosing lighting for your bathroom, be sure to consider both the ambiance you want to create and the brightness you need.

We’ve created this bathroom lighting guide to discuss different types of bathroom lighting and how to choose the right one for your needs.

Let’s get started!

The best bathroom lighting options for your home

Selecting the appropriate lighting for your bathroom can be tricky. It depends on the size of your bathroom and your personal lighting needs. However, there are a few general things to keep in mind when choosing lighting for your bathroom.

If you have a small bathroom, you’ll want to make sure that you have a bright ceiling light or downlights to provide adequate lighting for the entire space.
Wall lights or mirror lights are also a good option for small bathrooms, as they will provide additional lighting without taking up too much space.

For larger bathrooms, you can add a chandelier or pendant light for a touch of style.

Let’s take a look at the different types of lighting available for bathrooms.

1. Ceiling lights or downlights

Large bathroom with ceiling lights casting a uniform light
These are the most common lighting types used in bathrooms. They provide bright, even lighting and can be used as your main source of light.
  • Recessed light fixtures are a good option for small bathrooms as they provide bright lighting without taking up too much space.
  • Track light fixtures are also a good choice for lighting larger bathrooms. They provide bright lighting and can be easily directed to specific areas.
  • Flush mount light fixtures are another option for lighting your bathroom. These lights sit close to the ceiling and provide bright, even lighting.

2. Wall lights

Shower niche lighting
Wall lights can be placed on either side of your bathroom’s walls to provide even lighting in the entire room. You can also use wall lights to highlight artwork or other features in your bathroom.

3. Mirror Lights

Simple mirror lighting in a new bathroom in Vancouver

A great option if you want lighting that is specifically designed to illuminate your mirror and serve you when shaving or applying makeup.

They come in a variety of styles, including sconces, vanity lights, and plug-in wall lights. Vanity lights are a great option if you have a large mirror, as they provide lighting from all sides.
Sconces are a good option if you want more subtle lighting, as they provide lighting from the side rather than directly in front of your mirror.

4. Task Lighting

Small hallway bathroom with elegant task lighting on the sides of the mirror

Task lighting is a type of lighting that is designed to provide bright, focused light for tasks such as reading or working. In the bathroom, task lighting works best for makeup areas.

5. Chandeliers and pendant lights

These types of lighting are more decorative than functional, but they can add a touch of elegance to your bathroom. They will usually serve as ambient light.

If you have a large bathroom, you may want to consider adding a chandelier or pendant light for additional ambiance.

  • A crystal chandelier can add a touch of glamor to your bathroom, while a more rustic pendant light can provide a warm and inviting atmosphere.
  • Pendant light fixtures can bring a touch of elegance to your bathroom. If you use halogen bulbs, you can enjoy bright light. If you have a small space and want more ambient lighting, then use incandescent bulbs to create a softer light.

6. Shower lighting

A shower light is a must-have for any master bath and there are a variety of shower lighting options available, including recessed lighting, track lighting, and flush mount lighting. The number and style of lights that you choose should match the size of your shower.

7. Accent lighting

Modern bathroom with gray accent wall and accent lights
Accent lighting is used to highlight specific features in your bathroom. It can be used to highlight a piece of artwork, an accent wall, architectural items such as columns, or even your bathroom mirror.

How to choose the right bathroom light fixtures

Now that you know the different types of lighting available, let’s take a look at how to choose the right lighting for the guest bath or the master bathroom at your house. When choosing to light for your bathroom, you’ll want to keep the following in mind:
Large bathroom with hanging modern chandelier

1. The size of your bathroom

If you have a small bathroom, you’ll want to make sure that you choose lighting that is bright and compact. Ceiling lights or downlights are a good option for small bathrooms as they provide bright, even lighting. Wall lights or mirror lights are also a good option as they take up less space. For larger bathrooms, you have more options available. Chandeliers, pendants, sink lights, sconces, or a combination of them will work great.
Small bathroom rmeodel with lights over a rounded mirror

2. The style of your bathroom

The lighting fixtures you choose should match the style of your bathroom. If you have a modern bathroom, you’ll want to choose lighting fixtures that are sleek and simple. For a more traditional bathroom, you may want to consider adding a chandelier or pendant light.
Traditional classic bathroom remodel with lights over an elegant mirror

3. The type of lighting you need

Consider the type of activities you’ll perform in your bathroom. If, for example, makeup takes place in the bathroom, task lights are ideal. Mirror lights are a great task lighting option as they provide focused lighting.

4. The position of your lights

It’s also very important where you place your lights so they’re soft and flattering. Ceiling lights should be positioned over the walkway area so that they provide back lighting instead of directly on your head. Vanity lights should be placed symmetrically to avoid cast shadows.

Choose The Right Contractor For Your Bathroom Lighting Upgrades

When it comes to lighting fixtures installation for your bathroom, always consult with an electrician or a professional contractor. They’ll be able to help you choose the right lighting fixtures for your bathroom and install them in the correct location.

The takeaway

Having the right lighting in your bathroom can make or break your renovation. If you’re planning on renovating your bathroom in Vancouver and don’t know where to start, give us a call.

At City & Country Contracting, we’ll guide you in choosing the ideal lighting for your space and help you install them so they make your bathroom shine.