Bathroom Lighting Secrets: Create the Perfect Ambiance

Published by: Kevin Sears

13th June 25

Bathroom Ideas

Lighting can completely change the look and feel of a bathroom. The right lighting changes the room’s appearance and makes your daily routines easier. 

Here’s our expert guide to creating the perfect bathroom lighting scheme:

1. Make the most of natural light. 

Natural light creates the most flattering and welcoming bathroom environment. If your bathroom has a window, use frosted or textured glass for privacy. A strategically placed mirror will bounce light throughout the space, making even small bathrooms feel brighter and more spacious. For bathrooms with limited natural light, choosing light wall colours and shiny surfaces can help compensate.

2. Start with good overhead lighting. 

A ceiling light or recessed lights will brighten the whole space. Warm white LED bulbs around 2700K to 3000K create a soft, natural glow. For proper brightness, look for LED bulbs with 60-75W bulbs for standard bathrooms. 

3. Add lights where you need them. 

Wall mounted sconces or vertical LED strips on either side of the mirror will prevent shadows on your face. Alternatively, an integrated LED mirror provides a stylish all-in-one solution with the same shadow-reducing benefits. This makes tasks like shaving or applying makeup much easier. Avoid lights directly above the mirror, as they can cast harsh shadows.

4. Use extra lighting for a stylish touch. 

Accent lighting adds depth and character to your bathroom. Consider LED strips under a floating vanity, inside alcoves, or along shelving to create warm pools of light that add dimension to the room. These subtle lighting touches turn a bathroom into a truly atmospheric space, especially in the evening.

5. Upgrade to smart lighting. 

Smart bulbs let you adjust brightness and colour temperature throughout the day. Bright white light for mornings, warm tones for winding down, and even soft night lighting for a calming glow before bed.

6. Install dimmer switches for more control. 

Separate circuits for different light sources give you complete control over your bathroom's ambiance. Dimmers let you adjust brightness levels to create the perfect atmosphere for any time of day. 

This level of control improves the user experience and helps reduce energy consumption.

Bringing It All Together

Separate circuits for different light sources give you complete control over your bathroom's ambiance. Dimmers let you adjust brightness levels to create the perfect atmosphere for any time of day. This level of control not only enhances the user experience but can also help reduce energy consumption.

Need help choosing the best setup? Reply to this email, and let’s chat.

Kevin Sears

About Kevin Sears

Kevin Sears is a bathroom and interior design blogger here at 34 St John. He creates original content utilising his extensive knowledge of the bathroom industry and latest trends.

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