Bathroom Lighting

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See the guide below on how to select and hang sconces for your bathroom.

Selecting Bathroom Sconces

Sconces are an elegant and functional way to add ambient and task lighting to your bathroom. When choosing sconces for this space, consider the following factors to ensure they complement your design while providing the right type of light.

1. Functionality: Task vs. Ambient Lighting

Sconces can serve both task and ambient lighting functions. For bathrooms, you often need a combination of both:

• Task Lighting: This is the lighting you need for daily grooming activities, such as shaving, applying makeup, or brushing your teeth. To achieve this, place sconces near mirrors or on either side of the vanity. Choose sconces that provide even, shadow-free light. A fixture with frosted or diffused glass will soften the light and prevent harsh shadows.

• Ambient Lighting: If you're looking to create a more relaxing atmosphere, sconces mounted on the walls can provide soft, indirect light that enhances the overall ambiance of the space. Consider sconces with open or fabric shades for a more subdued effect.

2. Placement and Proportions

The placement of sconces is just as important as the fixture itself. For the best lighting around a vanity, place sconces at eye level, ideally 60 to 65 inches above the floor. If you're using two sconces, position them 24 to 30 inches apart for even illumination on both sides of your face.

When it comes to sizing, aim for sconces that are proportional to the size of your vanity and bathroom. Larger bathrooms can accommodate larger, more dramatic fixtures, while smaller bathrooms benefit from more compact or minimalist sconces.

3. Style and Design

Sconces come in a variety of styles, from traditional to modern. Your choice of design should complement the overall aesthetic of your bathroom. Popular styles include:

• Modern/Contemporary: Sleek, clean lines and minimalist designs in metals like brushed nickel, chrome, or matte black.

• Transitional: A mix of traditional and modern, often featuring softer lines and classic finishes like bronze or antique gold.

• Traditional: Ornate sconces with intricate details, often in finishes like brass or aged iron, which suit classic, vintage-inspired bathrooms.

4. Lighting Bulbs and Wattage

Choosing the right bulb for your sconces is critical. Opt for LED bulbs that provide bright, energy-efficient light. For task lighting, look for bulbs with a color temperature of around 2700K to 3000K (warm white), as they provide a flattering light that’s ideal for grooming. For ambient lighting, a lower wattage or a softer bulb will create a soothing, relaxing effect.