Modern bathroom lighting favors the combination of style and function. Today, lighting not only plays a central role in a bathroom’s practical design, but in its aesthetic appeal as well. There are so many lighting choices that choosing just one can be challenging. Read on to find out what to look for when choosing a modern lighting system for your bathroom.

The basics

Contemporary bathroom lighting can be divided into three categories:

Overhead lighting.  Overhead lights provide general illumination over the entire bathroom. Traditionally, bathrooms used a single white fluorescent lamp for overhead lighting. While this is convenient and cost-efficient, it is far from attractive and tends to be too harsh for mirror viewing. Modern bathroom design introduces softer lights in warm white to medium tones, making them more relaxing and flattering to the skin tone. Bar lights and spot lights make good overhead lighting.

Accent lighting.  Although an optional feature in traditional bathrooms, accent lights are almost a staple in contemporary bathroom design. Accent lights are meant to complement the overhead lighting and highlight key design features, such as a wall painting or an interesting tile pattern. You can also use them to spice up an otherwise plain and monotonous wall. Most accent lights are small wall sconces in strong, warm shades.

Task lighting.  These are meant for areas that need spot lighting, like vanities and medicine cabinets. This includes mirror lighting, which is best achieved by strip lights on the sides or light bulbs along the mirror’s perimeter. Make sure your mirror lights are soft, diffused, and correctly angled to prevent unflattering shadows on your face when you look in the mirror.

Recessed lamps

Recessed lights – those that are dug into the ceiling – are a favorite among designers because they are very cost-efficient, allow a controlled light flow, and create the characteristic sleek look of modern bathrooms. Install recessed lamps over key areas, such as the toilet, tub, and shower areas. This will let you reduce energy costs by lighting up specific areas instead of the entire bathroom. Use them with a dimmer to avoid glare in the evenings.

Soft lights

The modern trend leans towards warm, muted shades and diffused lights. For cheap but elegant overhead lighting, fit glass or plastic diffusers over incandescent bulbs. This will soften and spread the yellow light and cast a warm, comforting glow over your area. If you prefer fluorescents, go for warm white tones instead of daylight to avoid over-illuminating your vanity area.

Heat lamps

If you live in a cold area, you may want to check out infrared heat lamps. These lamps emit heated infrared light, warming your bathroom floors and walls while casting a dim glow. Use them with exhaust fans to keep from congesting bathroom air with steam and prevent mold and mildew buildup.

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