5: Bathrooms
* You will spend a lot of time in here so 'splash out' !
* Start by making sure that key areas, such as basin, mirror, WC, shower and bath, are lit properly, then consider whether any additional ambient lighting is needed.
* for a Classic style, more decorative Bathroom, you can use a chandelier but make sure this correctly-rated ie. IP44/IP65 depending on location (refer to the Brightbox guide to Bathroom Lighting Regulations).
* Good lighting at the mirror is essential for make-up/shaving. A single downlight over the basin is not good enough as it does not illuminate the face evenly and will create unflattering shadows. Best is two wall-lights set either side of the mirror with a small, narrow beam, downlight directly over the basin to make both it and the taps sparkle.
* A separate, wall-fixed, illuminated magnifying mirror will give good lighting for make-up/shaving where space over the basin is limited.
* For a Contemporary effect in the Bathroom use linear LED lighting, which creates uniform linear light rather than scallops of light.
* If there is a floating vanity unit, use linear LED lighting fixed to the underside, to enhance the floating effect. This should not be too bright so use 5-10W/metre max LED strip.
* In the shower area use linear LED, hidden behind a concealment detail in the ceiling, to wash light down the wall. Use 10-15W/metre LED strip for this.
* Recessed downlight(s) over the shower (max 30deg beam) will provide simple ambient lighting for this area and can be enhanced by lighting the 'shampoo niche'.
* If there is a sloping ceiling over the shower, use small wall-lights (eg. miniature up/down) - make sure they do not protrude by more than 100mm and position them above shoulder-height.
* Shower & shelving niches should be illuminated from the top using either miniature downlights (30deg beam is ideal) or linear LED lighting (max 5W/metre LED strip).
* For shelving recesses with glass shelves use mini downlights with narrow beam (max 20deg) to punch light through the shelves and create interesting shadows and reflections.
* For night-time visits fit low-level floorwasher lights switched by a ceiling-recessed PIR sensor.
* Small uplighters in the window-sill(s) can provide soft, relaxing light when soaking in the bath.