Lighting a bathroom can be a challenge – they're especially prone to shadows and reflective surfaces. But the good news is, there's a vibrant range to choose from, including pendants, downlights, diffused ceiling lights, sconces, under-cabinet lighting and skylights.
All-in-one heat and lighting unit
Lighting units with heat lamps are a popular choice and are great on those chilly mornings. The heat function also gives a powerful light to help with makeup application. The only downside with these is the heating element uses a lot of energy to run, so it's best to use this function sparingly.
Pendant lights
Pendant lights add warmth and depth to a room, can act as a focal point, and they complement most bathroom finishes, including stone, polished and matte. They can be clustered together or spread out to suit your bathroom's style and lighting needs.
Pendants come in an array of materials, including stone, glass, chrome, bamboo, metal, and timber, so finding the perfect light to suit your home's decor shouldn't be a problem.
Pay close attention to the height you hang your pendants – too low and they won't throw adequate light, too high and they may not look right. Find out what to consider when hanging a pendant light.
Lighting sconces
When placed either side of a mirror, wall sconces are an effective lighting option. They come in a variety of designs and colours that'll suit almost any bathroom's style.
Downlights
These lights push light directly down, which can create shadows on your face. Downlights do dispense a lot of light, so the best way to take advantage of this is to position them close to the mirror and ensure the light is angled onto the mirror, helping to reflect the light onto your face. It may also work to position downlights around the sides of the room rather than in the middle.
Under-cabinet lighting
By providing a source of evenly distributed light, under-cabinet lighting creates both ambience and functionality without creating additional shadows.
Diffused ceiling lights
For white or pale walls, diffused ceiling lights are the easiest way to light a bathroom. Placing one light in the centre of the bathroom pushes light around the room.
Skylights
Skylights are a great way to introduce natural light and provide ventilation. They're an energy-efficient solution that let daylight in without sacrificing your privacy. They're not practical for some wall spaces or multi-level dwellings, but solar skylights may be an option here. For hotter climates, the latest roof windows come with blinds.
Vertical fluorescent light fixtures
Vertical fluorescent light fixtures are best positioned on either side of the mirror to give significant light without shadows. Use a warm globe for softer lighting or a white bulb to create lighting needed for precision.
Illuminated mirror
Illuminated mirrors, such as backlit LED mirrors, are a great modern addition to any bathroom. Some even have finger-touch control, making them even easier to use.
Still not sure?
For more inspiration, check out our full lighting range.