It used to be that not much thought went into light design for bathroom spaces. A solitary central fixture or a weak light bar over a mirror seemed to suffice in homes as recently as the last decade. Thankfully, this is no longer the case.
In today's bathroom, contemporary lighting is getting a lot of much deserved attention ... and rightly so. As the average size of bath spaces has increased and become more compartmentalized, the requirements for varied and appropriate bathroom lighting fixtures has changed dramatically.
Many new and remodeled bath areas have been segmented into three distinct sections:
- Tub and shower
- Sink and vanity
- Commode - often in a separate room
Each section dictates its own lighting requirements so that the user may function safely and efficiently.
Being a higher functioning and larger space than it once was, lighting plans in modern bathrooms are broken down by category.
Ambient lighting, typically from a central ceiling fixture, has the purpose of generally illuminating the whole bath space. It is powered by the switch you hit as you enter the bathroom, and serves to amplify or supplant any natural light source.
Task lighting is the most critical in your bath, providing illumination for mirror work like shaving and makeup application. Bathroom lighting fixtures which provide task illumination are varied in terms of style and power, and options should be carefully considered based on the size and configuration of your vanity area.
Finally, in the modern bathroom, contemporary lighting in the form of accent illumination has become extremely popular. Bath accessories have made the move from the realm of basic function to art status. Many of our clients select accent lights to highlight a beautiful glass sink vessel or artful countertop basin.
