3 key lighting mistakes to avoid when designing your bathroom

Designing a bathroom can be a demanding task, and one of the most important aspects of bathroom design is lighting. A good lighting scheme can enhance the overall aesthetic of your bathroom and make it more fresh-looking and functional, whereas the wrong choice of lighting can have quite the opposite effect. Here at NPM Bathrooms, we’ve been designing exquisite bathrooms since 1982, and with all our years of expertise behind us, we’re here to give you some guidance on the lighting mistakes that are best avoided when designing your lighting scheme.

Not enough lighting

One of the biggest mistakes in bathroom lighting is not having enough of it. Inadequate amounts of light within your bathroom can make it feel dark and unwelcoming (which is not what we want!). So, make sure you have enough lighting in key areas of your bathroom space such as above the mirror, in the shower or bath area, and near the toilet. If possible, consider adding additional sources of light such as wall sconces, pendant lights, or even a skylight. What’s more, never underestimate the power of natural light! Try not to block your windows if you can help it, as the natural light from the sun can do wonders for the look of your space. Plus, humans have a strong reaction to sunlight because we’ve evolved to be daylight creatures, so it makes us more happy and energised!

Improper placement of lighting

Another common mistake that people make is placing their lighting fixtures in the wrong location. For instance, if you place a light directly above your mirror, it can cast shadows on your face and make it difficult to see while shaving or applying makeup. Instead, consider placing the lighting fixtures on either side of the mirror to provide even, shadow-free illumination. Not only is this a more practical way of lighting your mirror, but it’ll also bring a more warm and vibrant look to your face, even first thing in the morning!

Using the wrong colour temperature

It’s crucial to choose the right colour temperature for your bathroom lighting. Warm light can create a relaxing and soothing atmosphere, but it can also make it difficult to see when doing tasks like shaving or applying makeup. On the other hand, cool light can create a brighter and more energising environment, but it can also feel harsh and uninviting. Finding the right balance between the two is key. We’d always recommend a light wattage of between 75-100 watts if you’re looking to create a balanced lighting scheme, however the choice is ultimately yours!

Lighting is a crucial component of bathroom design, and by avoiding these common mistakes, you can create a bathroom that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to creating the bathroom of your dreams. And speaking of which, if you’re looking to create just that, that’s where we can help.

If you need of some inspiration, feel free to browse through our customer bathrooms right here on our site, or if you have any questions regarding how we can help you create the bathroom you’ve always desired, feel free to contact us on 01282 697717, alternatively you can explore our wide range of accessories in our bathroom showroom near Bolton.