Lighting can enhance the ambiance of any room in your home – and your bathroom is no exception. Often overlooked, bathroom lighting is a crucial component when it comes to creating the perfect atmosphere in your bathroom. Beyond enhancing aesthetics, bathroom lighting can impact your daily routine, particularly with tasks such as applying make-up, shaving, or even taking a relaxing bath or shower. Here are the ways lighting can perfect your bathroom ambiance:
Balance Natural Light and Artificial Light
Natural lighting can be a catalyst to brighten up your bathroom, but it cannot be relied on alone. Natural light can cast shadows, which can make it difficult for task-based activities in the bathroom. Use artificial light sources such as fixture lights, chandeliers, wall sconces, or pendant lights to balance natural light and ensure that shadows and glare are eliminated in your bathroom. Artificial lighting will allow you to create specific mood scenes and adjust lighting intensity with dimmer controls.
Location, Location, Location
In the bathroom, it is important to have layered lighting. Have low ambient lighting and several smaller light sources throughout the space. Consider what activities will be done in each area of your bathroom when planning your lighting layout. Vanity light should be placed about 36 inches apart around the mirror, preferably with the bulbs at eye level. Wall sconces could be installed beside the vanity, over the shower, or above the toilet. Recessed lights are perfect for illuminating the shower and highlighting textures.
Use Dimmer Switches
A dimmer switch can be one of the smartest investments you make for your bathroom. Controlling the brightness of your lighting will help regulate the mood in the bathroom. Lowering the brightness of the lighting can induce relaxation while increasing it can give you the feeling of being alert and awake.
The Right Color Temperature
The color temperature of your bathroom lighting can set the mood throughout the day. It’s best to use light bulbs with color temperatures ranging from 2700k to 3000k, which emit a warm and soft white light. As a general rule, any light source imitating daylight with 6500K (blue tone) would be too harsh and not ideal for a relaxing or romantic atmosphere.
In conclusion, lighting can perfect your bathroom ambiance from mood to functionality. A thoughtful lighting plan can illuminate every corner of your bathroom and depict the exact mood, whether relaxing or invigorating. Learn to cater to all activities, balance natural and artificial light, use dimmer switches, and use the right color temperature to maximize the ambiance in your bathroom.