A typical bathroom has many areas where extra lights are needed. Unfortunately, you may not know how to best add layers of lighting to help create ambiance and functionality. Read on to find out how to create the best lighting for your bathroom.
What Type of Lighting is Best for the Bathroom?
Before even considering redoing your bathroom, remember that safety comes first. Water and electricity do not mix, so specific electrical codes must be applied to protect your family and home from unwanted accidents. A qualified electrician is the best person to evaluate the area and to install shower and damp rated fittings and fixtures in the bathroom.
Once safety has been considered, you can concentrate on the aesthetics. Good bathroom lighting provides layers of light where it is most needed. This is accomplished by using both task lighting (i.e., vanity, shower) and ambient lighting (i.e., accent, recessed).
Vanity Lighting: Avoid recessed lighting which creates reflection and shadows around the vanity mirror. Rather select attractive sconces or vertical light fittings for even lighting. Depending on the size of the area and the mirror, direct light fixtures on the mirror may be needed. Also consider the lightbulbs. A crisp white light tends to render skin tones most accurately. Halogen bulbs set the gold standard.
Shower Lighting: Recessed lighting in the shower is recommended, particularly if the bathroom is small. Recessed fixtures offer sufficient lighting in an area that is often problematic to safely illuminate.
Accent Lighting: Ambient lighting, which mimics natural light, is particularly useful as a ceiling fixture. A bathroom chandelier or pendant light can be installed. Accent or recessed lighting in the form of spotlights provide an additional layer of interest to bathroom lighting. Also, dimmer lights allow control over bathroom lighting ambience. Turn up the light or turn it down when necessary.
Contact Tim Kyle Electric
When it comes to lighting in your bathroom, consider safety, functionality, and aesthetics. So much happens in the bathroom, so why wouldn’t you want to make sure it’s all well-lit? A good lighting plan contains task lighting for shaving or putting on makeup plus accent lights to enhance the overall mood of the room. Looking for residential electrical services in Howard County? Contact the experts at Tim Kyle Electric. We will help you figure out the most appropriate lighting for your bathroom.