subject: Choosing Bathroom Lighting [print this page] If you're building a new home or renovating your bathroom, one of the most important things, after choosing tub and sink, is choosing bathroom lighting. In fact, for some people choosing bathroom light fixtures takes precedence over everything else. There are certain factors that need to be considered when choosing your bathroom lighting.
Size of Room
The size of your bathroom will determine how many light fixtures you'll have, which will also determine the kind of fixtures you'll use. If you have a small bathroom, you can easily get by with one light or two light fixtures. You may choose one ceiling fixture and one vanity fixture. However, if you have a large bathroom, you'll have room for more than one light fixture so size of the light fixtures will then need to be determined.
Size of Light Fixtures
Obviously, the more light fixtures you use, the smaller they'll need to be. Keep in mind that this is a bathroom, not a studio! If you're renovating your bathroom, you'll probably need more wiring added to your bathroom. Consult with an electrician so you'll know what's required and what type of bathroom lighting can and should be used in your bathroom. This is particularly helpful in an existing structure.
Many types of bathroom lighting exists today - some with one bulb and others with two or three bulbs. Task lighting is often used in bathrooms for specific areas such as above the sink, above the tub, by the mirror, etc. Recessed down lighting is one of the most popular forms of task lighting. When used around the mirror, the most effective task lighting consists of multiple bulbs around or on the sides of the mirror.
If one fixture is all you're going to use, using a fixture with multiple bulbs will provide the best lighting. Make sure, also, that your bathroom lighting fixtures coordinate well with each other and the rest of the bathroom dcor.
