Layering Light in the Bath
Lighting is crucial to how well your bathroom functions, not just how good it looks. Whether you're building a new home or remodeling your current space, today's bathrooms should be designed to reflect your personal style and include well-planned lighting. Layering light in the bathroom is the best way to
provide task lighting as well as ambient lighting, striking just the right balance between function and mood. Consider your options:
Task Lighting
Task lighting provides adequate light for grooming, such as applying makeup and shaving. The best task lighting at the mirror is a pair of fixtures mounted on the wall, flanking the sink. This is called cross-illumination and provides shadow-free lighting for the face.
Ambient Lighting
Ambient lighting is achieved by bouncing the light off the ceiling, which softens shadows and creates a flattering effect.
Accent Lighting
Accent lighting gives depth and dimension to a bathroom, allowing you to illuminate design features, including art, architectural elements or even beautiful tile.
Decorative Lighting
Decorative lighting, created by hanging eye-catching fixtures from the ceiling, will dress up the bath and add a layer of luxury.
“I prefer to utilize multiple kinds of lighting in the bath. The look of a beautiful wall-mounted sconce keeps the bathroom classic and functional (this gives you a light source near your face). A ceiling mount or chandelier adds general lighting for the bathroom as well as adding a point of interest on the ceiling.”
— Sara Gilbane Sullivan