We have found that bathroom lighting is often neglected….until you try to apply makeup or shave, and then you realize you don’t have the right light. The bathroom is increasingly becoming a place to relax and recharge, and when lighting is selected with thought, it’s a wonderful reward and indulgence for the homeowner.

– Vanity lighting is perhaps the most important when you think about the layers of bathroom lighting. The biggest mistake people can make is putting recessed fixtures over the mirror that cast extreme (and ugly!) shadows on the face. Wall sconces on either side of the mirror are a beautiful and effective decorative option that cast even shadows across the face, and can add color and style to a bathroom.

–  The shower and bathtub areas are also overlooked. These spaces are often suited for dedicated recessed lighting fixtures that provide adequate coverage. Sometimes people make the mistake of putting in a single light that doesn’t provide enough of the right kind of light, so keep the desired area of illumination in mind when selecting shower and bathtub lighting.

–  After thinking about your task lighting, it’s time to fill in the rest of the space with warm and pleasing ambient lighting.  A centrally mounted ceiling fixture is the most common solution for this. Remember, chandeliers and pendant lights aren’t just for kitchens and living rooms, and can be practical yet elegant fixtures for a bathroom.

For example, Pat Haley of May Interiors placed this gorgeous chandelier (below) in this guest bathroom space and it provides the perfect amount of lighting and grace.

Next time you step into your bathroom space, take a look around to see if you have the lighting you need. After all, it’s where you start and end your day.

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