Why invest in lighting for my bathroom? Most people only think of investing money in their bathroom’s shower, sink, or toilet forgetting about the importance of lighting and lighting fixtures. However, as your bathroom increasingly becomes a place to relax it is important to consider how lighting can affect the overall ambiance of the room.
The folks at This Old House say, “A good lighting plan is a series of layers – placing ample light where it is needed for showers, shaving, or putting on makeup, for instance, while other light sources enhance the overall mood of the room.”
Task Lighting
Task lighting is arguably the most important source of lighting in your bathroom. These areas of the bathroom include vanity lighting and the shower area. Skip the recessed ceiling fixtures over your vanity and opt for vertical fixtures or sconces mounted on either side of the mirror instead. This option provides the best casting for an even light across the face. Recessed lighting fixtures are a better choice above your shower or free-standing tub.
Ambient Lighting
This lighting source is a substitute for natural light. It often consists of a central fixture or lamp, as opposed to Accent Lighting which usually includes small recessed spotlights aimed at a piece of decorative art.
Choosing a Bulb
With a plethora of bulb options, choosing the right one can be daunting. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when selecting a light bulb:
Crisp White – most accurate skin tone rendering.
Halogen – gold standard.
Low-voltage – sparking effect.
Dimmers are also a great option. It allows you to have complete control over the amount of lighting at any given time, ultimately letting you control the mood. You should switch to a lower-watt bulb when using dimmers, to reduce or eliminate buzzing.
There are clearly a whole bunch of reasons to consider a good lighting plan, even in your bathroom. Whether you want to create a desirable mood, or simply have enough light to provide for an accurate shave, it is worth giving lighting some thought. To consult with an expert that can help you create a lighting plan that is perfect for your bathroom, give Uptown a call!