One of the most common issues I face in many homes is insufficient lighting. Underlighting can lead to severe stress on the eyes and is, in general, indicative of a poor lighting scheme.
The bathroom is no exception.
Now, the problem is often caused by the use of wattage to determine brightness. Wattage is simply a measure of the energy used by the bulb and is not a good enough indicator of brightness anymore after the introduction of energy-efficient LED bulbs.
This is where lumens come in.
For the bathroom, you need ambient light of 15-25 lumens per square foot (150-250 lumens per square meter). For task lighting, you need 30-40 lumens per square foot (300-400 lumens per square meter) of your task area! For example, if your bathroom is 60 sq. ft. (5.6 sq. m.), you would need 900-1500 lumens of ambient light. Go for the higher end of the spectrum and use dimmer switches. If your task area (e.g., faucet) is 15 sq. ft. (1.4 sq. m.), you would need 450-750 lumens for that area.
Let’s see exactly how you can distribute the required lumens between various fixtures.
What Are Lumens And Why Are They Important In The Bathroom?
Lumens are a measurement unit used to determine how much light an object emits. They have been around for a long time but only recently started being used in the lighting industry.
The higher the lumens, the higher the brightness of the light-emitting object.
That’s basically all you need to know about lumens.
In the bathroom, you want to create a soft glow that is not too harsh on the eye. This is why the recommended number of lumens per square foot is lower than the lumens needed in a fully functional room, like the kitchen. However, they should be a bit higher than the lumens required in the bedroom or living room, as the bathroom is more functional than these two rooms.
The Role Of Ambient Lighting
This is how we end up with a range of 15-25 lumens per square foot (150-250 lumens per square meter) for ambient light.
Ambient artificial light aims to replace natural daylight whenever the latter is not available. Whether because it’s night or because there are no available windows in the room.
Common fixtures for ambient light include:
- Flush mount lights
- Semi-flush mount lights
- Recessed can lights
Hanging lights, such as chandeliers or pendants, are not so common in the bathroom but can be used if your bathroom is spacious with high ceilings.
Sconces are mostly used for task lighting but can provide ample ambient light if placed properly (e.g., on each side of the mirror, directing light at a 360-degree angle.
The required ambient lumens can be divided between multiple light sources. For example, if your bathroom is 60 sq. ft. and you decide to use 1500 lumens according to the guidelines above, then you can have a semi-flush mount light of 900 lumens and two sconces of 300 lumens each.
Alternatively, you can have recessed can lights of 1000 lumens in total, as well as a ceiling LED strip of 500 lumens.
The possibilities are endless so mix and match until you find your ideal combination!
The Role Of Task Lighting
Task lighting in the bathroom is essential for activities that require more precision, such as shaving, applying makeup, or grooming. These tasks need more focused and brighter lighting to reduce shadows and provide clarity.
For task lighting, you should aim for 50-80 lumens per square foot (550-850 lumens per square meter) of your task area. You can even go higher than this range and install dimmer switches so that you can control the brightness whenever you want.
Common fixtures for task lighting in the bathroom include:
- Vanity lights
- Sconces placed on either side of the mirror
- Overhead lighting specifically positioned to illuminate the sink and mirror area.
The key is to ensure that the lighting is even and reduces any shadows on your face.
Layering Your Bathroom Lighting
Achieving the perfect bathroom lighting involves layering different types of lights. We already saw two of the three types above: ambient and task. The missing piece of the puzzle is accent lighting.
Accent lighting adds depth and dimension to your bathroom, highlighting architectural features or decorative elements. Examples include LED strip lights under cabinets, spotlights on artwork, backlit mirrors, or a small chandelier for a touch of elegance.
So by using all three layers, you can achieve balanced lighting that is functional, impressive, and easy on the eye.
For example, you can combine a mini chandelier with a backlit mirror and sconces. Or you can have recessed can lights with a vanity light facing downwards and LED strips under the cabinets. The combinations are endless!
Choosing the Right Color Temperature
In addition to lumens, the color temperature of your lights plays a significant role in creating the right atmosphere in your bathroom. Color temperature is measured in Kelvin (K) and ranges from warm to cool tones:
- Warm White (2700K-3000K): Creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Ideal for ambient lighting if you want a spa-like feel in your bathroom.
- Neutral White (3500K-4100K): Offers a balance between warm and cool. Good for task lighting as it provides clarity without being too harsh.
- Cool White (5000K-6500K): Mimics daylight and is very bright. Suitable for task areas if you need maximum visibility.
Tips for Effective Bathroom Lighting
- Use Dimmers: Installing dimmer switches allows you to adjust the brightness according to your needs and time of day, creating a versatile lighting environment.
- Avoid Direct Overhead Lights: These can create harsh shadows. Instead, use a combination of wall-mounted lights and ceiling fixtures.
- Waterproof Fixtures: Ensure all your bathroom lights are rated for damp or wet locations, especially those near the shower or bathtub.
- Consider Mirror Lighting: Backlit mirrors or those with integrated lights can provide excellent task lighting and reduce shadows.
By understanding lumens and strategically layering different types of lighting, you can create a bathroom that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The right lighting will enhance your daily routines and contribute to a comfortable, inviting atmosphere.
