Background Image

Studio Blog

April 30th

Bathroom Lighting: Awash in Light

A variety of silhouette lighting gives this contemporary bathroom an edge.

A variety of silhouette lighting gives this contemporary bathroom an edge.

We don’t always do complete bathroom remodels — sometimes we go into a home because a client asks us to make little changes to update décor or make the home more functional. One of the things I often notice when I do this is lack of adequate bathroom lighting design.

Most bathrooms have an overhead light and/or a light above the vanity mirror, and that’s all. But really, you need much more than that to best use the space and to give the bathroom the same design touches that you would any other room in your home. Almost anyone who visits your house is likely to use your bathroom — why overlook its design?

Toe-kick lighting — lights that run along the base of your vanity — is an unexpected bathroom light feature. It’s also a nice layer of light you can use in a powder room to create a mood for a party or as a nightlight in the master bath rather than leaving on brighter lights.

This uplight onyx counter makes for a dramatic powder room.

This uplight onyx counter makes for a dramatic powder room.

Another bathroom lighting design feature is underlit counters, such as an opaque onyx top. These show off the counter’s texture and color and, like the toe-kick, provide a less harsh light for the room.

Eye-level lighting in the bathroom is most flattering for mirror usage. If you don’t have enough space to hang sconces on the wall, hang pendant lights instead. But complement that with overhead lighting as well as a light over the shower and bathtub for optimal use of the space. And a chandelier is always an unexpected yet worthwhile way to light your bathroom as well as create a design feature.

If we can help you with San Diego bathroom remodeling — or any of your décor or remodel needs — please contact our San Diego interior design firm for a complimentary consultation.