A few simple guidelines for bath lighting: Place bath strip lights 76-80 above the floor (and at least 6 from the ceiling). If electrical boxes are pre-cut in the mirror, strips can be mounted on top of the mirror. Select the strip light closest in scale to your mirror. They generally come in 24, 36 and 48 sizes. A 30" vanity can take a 24 wide strip. Two and three light sconces are an attractive alternative above the mirror in a bathroom. Wall sconces flanking the mirror over the sink provide shadow-free lighting. For bathrooms with ornate sink and mirror designs, wall sconces are a natural choice. Since bathrooms require two watts of light per square foot, you will need at least two sconces for the room. Position these wall lights at your eye level. Use lampshades to prevent glare. For double sinks, try 3 sconces flanking 2 mirrors. Then add a small chandelier or lantern for general lighting. Lack of space or existing wiring often dictates the use of recessed lights, which can cast significant shadows. Sometimes small pendants will work as alternatives to recessed lights. And dont forget to wire for a lighted make-up mirror (or use a plug-in model). Shades of Light 2006 |
