Bathroom Lighting - types and uses

There three light sources in any bathroom that need consideration. The first is natural light that is provided from the sun and enters through windows and doorways. The next two are artificial lighting which falls into task lighting and ambient lighting.

Natural lighting is the light that is provided through the day time from outside. If this is not enough light then consider adding a sky light that will bring light directly into the bathroom eliminating the need for artificial light during the daytime.

Artificial Lighting

Artificial lighting in a bathroom is both task and ambient lighting. Task lighting is specifically functional and is for areas that need strong clear light. The area around the vanity is where you need the strongest light for applying make-up, shaving, and styling your hair. This should light the area well and is best placed above or beside the bathroom mirror. Although task lighting is functional it does not mean that the light fitting should be plain. In fact these lights can be both functional and beautiful as well as energy saving.

Ambient Lighting

Ambient lighting is general light and can also be called ‘mood lighting’. It lights the room generally in a non-specific manner. This light can be fitted with dimmers and can be down lights, a central ceiling light etc. However there are other options such as up lights, LED lighting under a raised vanity unit and tiny ceiling lights that look like little stars. LED lights are a great option for this type of light and often can change colour if you press a button, thus giving you an excellent mood and general light. Also they are very energy efficient saving the environment and your money.

Lighting can increase the effects of texture and colours and can really transform a bathroom. Even if you have a plain white bathroom you and add colour changing or single coloured LED lights and the bathroom mood will change transforming that space.