Choosing the Right Bathroom Vanity Lighting
Wednesday, May 27th, 2009
There are many different types of bathroom vanity lighting solutions on the market today. Proper lighting can add much needed function to a bathroom vanity. Strips, sconces, and pendant lights are the most popular choices for vanity lighting. Each light has its own unique look and advantages but they all are able to provide sufficient light for a vanity area when properly installed. When purchasing and installing vanity lights you must always take account the height of the ceilings, vanity, and persons who will be using the area. Some light fixtures illuminate downward while others illuminate upward or all over. Once you have a better idea of the type, size, and placement for your lighting fixtures you can then begin searching for a style that best fits your bathroom design scheme.
Strip lights are mostly associated with vanity areas because they can cover a large area and can provide ample light for the entire vanity area. In some cases, they may be too bright especially if the bathroom also contains a skylight. Strips usually come with 2, 3, 4 and more bulbs that can either be installed to illuminate upward or downward depending on your lighting needs. You can find strip fixtures in many different finishes including different metals like nickel and bronze. The glass light bulb covers can also be found in many different sizes, shapes, colors, and textures. Energy efficient light bulbs usually come included with the strip kits, but they can also be purchased separately.
Sconces are much like strip lights in that they can be installed to face upward or downward but they usually only include one or two light bulbs. A typical sconce installation would be to place one sconce on either side of a vanity mirror. Sconces are recommended for single sink vanities that are not too wide. They can be found in many different sizes, designs, shapes, and finishes. Sconces are a great opportunity to add a splash of color to your bathroom design. Many come with unique glass bulb covers that can set your bathroom apart from all others. If you are looking for a more custom or unique piece you should check with local artists for handcrafted glass that is one of a kind and cannot be duplicated.
Pendant lights are a recent trend in bathroom vanity lighting. The pendants provide a dimmer light or a more subtle light source. The light fixtures are usually installed as a second light source for when the vanity is just being used for simple tasks like hand washing. Pendant lights are also a great alternative for adding a little flair or style to a bathroom design. Pendants come in a wide array of colors, styles, shapes, sizes, wattage, and finishes to choose from. Keep in mind that pendant lights should not be the main light source for a high traffic vanity area that is used for more than just hand washing.
You can find vanity lights at home improvement stores, lighting stores, local department stores, and even online retailers. There are plenty of options to shop around for great, affordable lighting fixtures without having to worry about sticker price shock. Used lighting is another alternative but keep in mind that there have been many recent changes in lighting technology to reduce the level of energy we use in our homes. Always use low voltage fixtures and energy efficient light bulbs when able. It is highly recommended that you add a skylight if f you have enough room in your budget to do so. Natural light is by far better than any other light source. After all, it’s free!
