Bathroom Lighting Ideas
Crystal Chandelier
Crystal Sconces
In this luxurious bathroom, a crystal chandelier takes center stage, adding glamour and sparkle to the traditional decor.
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Antique Sconces
Antique sconces hang above the oversize mirror and add unexpected flair to the light and bright bathroom. The dark finish on the light fixtures adds weight to the room and helps unify the dark legs of the chair and the cabinet hardware. Their position above the vanity also provides task lighting for makeup application and grooming.
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Work of Art
The organic shape of this blown-glass light fixture works well in the contemporary-style bathroom. Modern spaces can feel cold and be full of hard edges, but the round globes on the light fixture and the hand-shape towel hooks in this bathroom add a touch of playfulness.
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Candlestick Sconces
Candlestick wall sconces, ornate details, and custom-glazed cabinets are a nod to country French style. Keep in mind that decorative fixtures add flair, but you'll want to ensure that you have another source of light, such as an overhead fixture or recessed lighting, to provide ample illumination for applying makeup and grooming.
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Light Tubes
Streamlined tube lights enhance this sleek bath vanity while providing soft light. Try multiple light switches in the bathroom so you can customize the amount of light. Flip one switch to turn on only the overhead lights, and flip the other switch when you need more precise lighting at the vanity.
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Old-World Lanterns
The ornate styling of these iron lanterns hanging over the vanity is a work of art. Add the curved architecture of the ceiling and detailed craftsmanship on the vanity and there's no doubt: This small bathroom is fit for royalty.
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Layered Lighting
Lighting in a bathroom is paramount, so layering the types of light produces the best results. In this bath, the combination of overhead light from the chandelier, natural light from the windows, and light from the fixtures above the mirrors covers all of the lighting needs.
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Colored Shades
Add color with the lampshades in your bathroom for an easy and inexpensive way to update the space. Dark-color shades will block a lot of light, so stick to light colors to maximize illumination.
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Backlit Beauty
A large mirror framed in onyx is lit from behind, casting a warm glow on the opulent primary bathroom.
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Add Hardworking Lighting
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Use Ceiling-Mount Fixtures
Light a walk-in shower with ceiling-mount fixtures -- made for a wet location -- for soft directional lighting. The flush design keeps them from competing with the streamlined style of the shower stall.
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Install Decorative Lighting
Make a statement in a traditional space with unique bathroom lighting. The blue hue of the traditional pagoda fixture complements the wall color.
Overhead bathroom lighting like this provides general or ambient light. Make sure the bottom of the fixture is at least 7 feet above the floor to leave enough headroom.
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Reflect Light with Mirrors
Make a small bath feel larger with a large mirror. Install sconces on the mirror to reflect light. The sleek design of the sconces contributes to the contemporary style of the space.
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Trend Spotting: Lighting
See some of the biggest trends in lighting for the home and get inspiration for your bathroom lighting!
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Add Style with Unique Pendants
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Focused Lighting
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Add a Rustic Accent
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Include Task Lighting
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Boost Style with Traditional Sconces
A trio of sconces over a double vanity enhances the design of a classic cottage bathroom. Matching shades soften the glare.
If the fixture normally takes an incandescent bulb, replace the bulb with a compact fluorescent lightbulb (CFL) for greater energy efficiency and longer life. Remember that when you flip the light switch, some CFLs require about a minute to reach full brightness.
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Make the Most of Natural Light
Large windows fill the bathroom with natural light. A Moravian star pendant light over the freestanding tub is primarily decorative in this bathroom. Connect the light to a dimmer switch to create a relaxing mood.
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Consider Nontraditional Lighting
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Choose Unique Fixtures
Dress up a bathroom with a contemporary light fixture. A galvanized-metal barn sconce adds industrial style in a small bath and shines light on the rustic vanity.
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Decorate with Lighting
A pretty glass pendant hangs over a sink like jewelry. The glass shade disappears against the large mirror.
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Enhance Design with Sconces
Choose lighting that coordinates with the bathroom's design. Silver candlestick sconces complement the hammered-finish mirror frame and the room's elegant style.
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Go for Functional Design
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Consider Task Lighting
Sconces hung at eye level on each side of the mirror are ideal for grooming. Other light sources in the room only provide general illumination.
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Embellish the Shades
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Clean and Simple Lighting Design
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Classic Lighting Style
Simple sconces enhance a beautiful white bathroom. A ceiling-mount fixture and a window provide general illumination in the space. If you're remodeling your bathroom, consult an interior designer with expertise in bathroom lighting to help you develop a lighting plan that's both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
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Highlight Contemporary Style
A sleek horizontal sconce hung over the mirror is the finishing touch in a modern bath. Choose a bathroom light fixture that's at least as wide as the mirror to avoid shadows.
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Layer Light
In a large bathroom, it's important to include multiple light sources to create layers of light. Sconces beside the mirrors offer task lighting for grooming. Overhead lights fill the space with ambient light, and windows add natural light.