Bathroom Lighting Inspiration

Whilst designing your new bathroom, lighting is a factor that needs to be considered. The right lighting choices can transform your space, creating a relaxing atmosphere while ensuring functionality.

In this blog, we’ll be discussing everything you need to know about bathroom lighting, including different types of light and tips for creating the perfect bathroom.

Whether you want spotlights, wall lights, or downlighting, our designers are here to help you decide what you would prefer.  

Good lighting isn’t just for a practical element; it also sets the mood for your bathroom. Whether you’re applying makeup, or taking a relaxing bath, the lighting plays a key role in every task. Smaller bathrooms may rely on lighting to enhance the brightness in the room, as there may be less natural light coming through. Another tip for enhancing a smaller bathroom is to add a well-placed mirror as this can amplify the brightness of the room and create a sense of space. 

To create a well-lit bathroom, you need to layer your lighting. Just like in other areas of the home, bathroom lighting is most effective when it has three main components: 

Ambient Lighting (General Lighting) 

This is your overall light source and helps you navigate the space comfortably. Recessed lighting, overhead ceiling lights, or a central fixture can serve as your ambient light. It should be bright enough to fill the room without being too harsh. 

Task Lighting 

Task lighting focuses on specific areas where you need to see clearly, such as around the mirror or shower. These lights are essential for activities like shaving, applying makeup, or brushing your teeth. For vanity mirrors, consider installing wall-mounted sconces or a mirror light that provides even, shadow-free illumination. 

Accent Lighting 

Accent lighting adds depth and drama to your bathroom. It’s often used to highlight architectural features, artwork, or plants. You can use LED strips under cabinetry, small, recessed lights in alcoves, or decorative sconces to add a touch of elegance.   

Now that you know the types of lighting to consider, it’s time to choose the right fixtures for your bathroom. Here are some options for each category: 

• Ambient Lighting: Ceiling-mounted fixtures like flush mounts, pendant lights, or recessed can lighting are great for general illumination. If you have a larger bathroom, a chandelier or a larger pendant light can make a bold statement.

• Task Lighting: The most popular choice for task lighting is wall-mounted sconces on either side of the mirror. These provide balanced, even light on your face without casting shadows. If you have a single vanity, a lighted mirror or a ceiling-mounted light fixture directly above the mirror can work well.

• Accent Lighting: LED strip lights along the edges of the mirror or under floating vanities can add a modern, sleek look. Additionally, small sconces placed beside artwork or plants can create an inviting atmosphere.

Other factors to consider would be the brightness and colour temperature of your chosen lighting, to make sure your bathroom is not too dim or too bright. Adding dimmers to your lighting fixtures is a great way to control the ambiance. In the morning, you might need bright light to start your day, but in the evening, you may want a softer, more relaxing light.  

The colour of the lighting is also important. Cool white lights are perfect for task areas such as the vanity as these mimic natural daylight, but for a more relaxing vibe a soft white would work well for example around a bath.  

Bathrooms are high-moisture environments, so you’ll want to select lighting fixtures that are rated for wet or damp areas. Look for lighting products that are specifically designed to withstand moisture to ensure durability and safety.  

The lighting around your mirror is one of the most critical aspects of bathroom lighting. Whether you’re applying makeup, styling your hair, or just getting ready, poor mirror lighting can cause shadows and make it difficult to see clearly. Try to position lighting on either side of your mirror (like sconces or a vanity light) to create even lighting without shadows. 

Choosing the right lighting for your bathroom is about balancing function and style. By combining different lighting layers, you can create a space that’s not only functional but also inviting. Whether you’re looking for a modern, minimalist bathroom or a cozy, spa-like retreat, the right lighting will set the tone for your bathroom’s ambiance and elevate your daily routines. 

If you’re looking for inspiration, or you would like some advice about your new bathroom, feel free to visit our showroom – which is open 7 days a week. We have hundreds of bathrooms on display, with various lighting examples as well as tiles, baths, showers and everything you will need to consider when renovating your bathroom.  

If you’re looking for bathroom inspiration, we have completed multiple bathroom projects, which we not only share in our Portfolio but we also share on our social media platforms. Follow us on Instagram , Facebook and LinkedIn.

If you’re thinking of giving your bathroom a makeover, you can reserve a booking to ensure your lead times aren’t prolonged. Visit our showroom to enquire about this service we offer.

To begin your project, we suggest visiting our showroom which has hundreds of bathrooms on display to browse. Here you’ll be able to gain inspiration and speak to our design team to learn more about the possibilities for your new bathroom.  

Whether you already have ideas, or you’re starting from scratch, our team will be able to advise you on what is achievable.    

Covering installations up to a 50-mile radius of our showroom in Bletchley is open 7 days a week, feel free to ring or pop in and one of the team will be ready to help!