Top Ten Bathroom Light Fixtures
I recently wrote about some of my current favorite foyer light fixtures and had several comments asking for bathroom lighting, so here you go!
Aside from recessed lighting, which I find VERY beneficial in a bathroom, there are two main types of bathroom light fixtures that you will want consider when renovating or dressing up your space.
Bar Lighting
Vanity bar lights are usually two to four lights per bar and are installed above the mirror. Depending on the size of your bathroom, and whether you have a single sink vanity or a double, you’ll choose the number of lights in your bar. Examples: If you have a single vanity, 24-36″, in a smaller bathroom, you most likely will only need a 2-light bar. But if you have a larger bathroom, with a 60″ double vanity you could install either one 4-light bar over a larger rectangular mirror, or two smaller 2 or 3-light bars over individual mirrors or either end of a larger mirror.
Installing a Bar Light
I usually choose downward facing lights because we all know that upward facing lights will over time, end up with little bug carcasses. If you find one that is upward facing, read the specifications to see if it can be installed downward; most can, but read the fine print before purchasing if you prefer for it to face downward.
Favorite Bar Lights
Sconces
Another option is a sconce, and these would be installed on either side of the mirror. Note, you wouldn’t use a single, long retangular mirror with sconces unless your sconces are large in size or offer multiple bulbs. Instead of one long mirror, you would install individual mirrors above a double vanity, thus installing sconces on either side of each mirror. Here’s an example:
Favorite Sconces
Where to Buy
- Wayfair – where I get the majority of everything for our projects
- Build.com – has an excellent selection as well
- Shades of Light – great selection and maybe some you’ve not seen in other places
- Lamps Plus – same as above – check their amazing selection
Making Decisions
Whenever you’re making decisions for a new bathroom, go with what you love. There are no true rules that must be followed, and your favorite may not be ‘what’s trending now’, but as all trends go, they come back around. My greatest advice, which I’ll keep giving, is go to multiple stores and browse. Start a Pinterest board and search for different finishes: black matte, chrome, oil rubbed bronze, champagne bronze, brushed nickel. Between all the finishes there are literally millions of looks to choose from all over the internet and you are bound to find the right one for you.
Let me know if I can help in any way!
