Strategic lighting prevents the bathroom from feeling like a cave.
A drop, or suspended, ceiling covers a multitude of ceiling sins such as cracked plaster and exposed electrical wiring. In the bathroom, however, a drop ceiling can make the room seem cramped. Most bathrooms are small rooms and the lowered ceiling may cast shadows and amplify a slightly claustrophobic feel. Proper and attractive lighting techniques become crucial for the design of the bathroom. Use lighting fixtures in a strategic, layered placement to turn the cramped bathroom into an intimate room of quiet repose.
General Lighting
General lighting, which provides the main lighting for the bathroom, is usually provided by the main fixtures attached to the ceiling. Drop ceiling designs usually incorporate large fluorescent light fixtures in the ceiling system. These fixtures, suspended from the ceiling, fit within the drop ceiling grid and replace the solid ceiling panels in strategic places. This type of design is best fitted for an office, and the tinny fluorescent bulbs shine an unnatural cast in the bathroom. Instead, use decorative recessed lights in place of the fluorescent panels for a more refined appearance. For a soft, romantic look, install crown molding a few inches below the ceiling perimeter and tuck rope lighting behind the molding.
Task Lighting
Task lighting refers to the particular lights that illuminate the task areas of the bathroom, such as in front of the mirror or in the shower stall. Skip the ceiling light over the vanity and instead opt for decorative task lights around or above the mirror. Lights longer than two feet provide even coverage and eliminate shadows. For the tub and shower area, a recessed light provides good visibility with little intrusion. Glass lighting doors are best for recessed lights, as plastic yellows over time. For small shower areas, select a space-saving bathroom ventilation fan with a combination light fixture. Over a toilet, sconces or other vertical fixtures provide illumination and a touch of class.
Accent Lighting
Accent lighting fixtures provide small snippets of light decor. Accent lighting could either emphasize a decorative feature in the bathroom, such as a beautiful painting or a luxurious garden bathtub, or draw attention away from less appealing items in the bathroom, such as an unsightly drop ceiling or an aging toilet. Accent lighting is best used sparingly and should focus on one or two highlights in the bathroom.
Types of Lights
Lighting that mimics natural daylight provides the best light for bathroom tasks. Halogen bulbs and compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs render crisp, clear light at better energy savings than incandescent bulbs. Low-voltage halogens produce less heat also, which is a suitable option for small bathrooms with low ceilings and mediocre ventilation. Light-emitting diodes (LED) lights are long-lasting and are therefore perfect for rope lighting. For accent lighting, low-voltage candle lights and special miniature incandescent bulbs shimmer with the perfect balance of light and ambience.
Tags: bathroom such, drop ceiling, Accent lighting, , fluorescent light, incandescent bulbs, lighting fixtures