A well designed modern bathroom demands equally well designed bathroom lighting. Get inspiring bathroom lighting ideas by perusing our Top 10 list of contemporary bathroom light fixtures, which include designs from Sonneman, Artemide, and Varaluz, among others.
Modern Bath & Vanity Lighting
Top 10 Modern Bath & Vanity Lights
Top Modern Bathroom Ideas
A space built for daily routines and morning or evening relaxation, the bathroom can often be overlooked as a space for stylish, yet practical design. We’ve put together our top styles designed to instantly elevate your bathroom space while maximizing a clean aesthetic and supreme functionality.
Elevate Your Bathroom with Modern Vanity Lighting
Proper lighting is an integral part of a stylish bathroom. But while other elements in bathroom design—fixtures, wall tiles, flooring—tend to garner the most attention, modern bathroom lighting is just as essential. Optimally, it should provide both pinpointed lighting for necessary tasks, and more nuanced lighting that enhances the other carefully chosen bathroom features. Modern bathroom lighting, which includes a variety of wall and overhead styles, should certainly be functional, but style by no means should be overlooked. When selecting modern bathroom lighting, keep some fundamental things in mind:
Make Lighting an Important Part of Modern Bathroom Design
When designing a modern bathroom, most people spend the bulk of their time picking out bathroom fixtures and finishes, contemporary bathroom lighting, which includes vanity lighting, ceiling lighting, and wall lamps, tend to be the last thing on the ‘to do' list. Modern vanity lighting, for instance, is overlooked in favor of last-minute additions that detract from other elements in the bathroom that have been given more serious thought. By making sure that modern bathroom design involves lighting as much as it does other bathroom features, a more unified design statement can be achieved more easily.
Which Type of Modern Lighting is Most Important?
Proper lighting is an integral part of a functional and stylish bathroom. But while other elements in bathroom design—hardware, wall tiles, flooring—tend to garner the most attention, modern bathroom lighting is just as essential. Optimally, it should provide both pinpointed lighting for necessary tasks, and more nuanced lighting that enhances the other carefully chosen bathroom features. Modern bathroom light fixtures, which includes a variety of wall and overhead styles, should certainly be functional, but style by no means should be overlooked.
Contemporary bathroom lighting, which includes vanity lighting, ceiling lighting, and wall lamps, all can make a difference in your primary or guest bathroom. When selecting the best lighting fixtures for your commode, it truly depends on the aesthetic you are going for and the size of your space. Modern vanity lighting, frames your mirror and allows for your nightly and daily rituals to commence without a hitch. Opt for a singular bath bar, bath light, multiple bath bars, or wall sconces to provide optimal light, accentuating any overhead lighting like pendants, chandeliers, or recessed lights. For larger bathrooms, multiple lighting options including bath bars and sconces is best for a well-lit latrine, whereas for smaller half baths, a singular bath bar or two to three light vanity light is more than enough. Look for LED-powered vanity light designs for the most powerful and energy-efficient option that requires little to no maintenance.
How to Choose the Best Vanity Light for Your Space
To find the right vanity light for your bathroom, consider a few key factors:
Style
- Choose a Scandinavian design for a straightforward lighting solution. A Scandinavian vanity light will offer clean lines, simplicity, and supreme functionality.
- Use a mid-century modern vanity light to reimagine your bathroom in retro style. Mid-century modern designs typically feature natural colors, interesting details, and plenty of eye-catching flair.
- Incorporate a modern lighting design in the bathroom to let your contemporary style take center stage. Contemporary vanity light fixtures are eye-catching and unexpectedly chic.
Number of Lights
- Opt for a damp-rated wall sconce or bath bar on either side of your bathroom mirror for a balanced look in a smaller space. A good rule of thumb is to have a vanity light that is equally as big, or slightly smaller than your mirror.
- A two or three light vanity light is perfect for an average-size mirror or above a single basin sink. Two fixtures can be used above multiple mirrors in the same bathroom.
- A two or three light vanity light is perfect for an average-size mirror or above a single basin sink. Two fixtures can be used above multiple mirrors in the same bathroom.
Color
- Use a sleek, polished chrome vanity light for a classic, timeless touch of brightness.
- Choose a satin nickel vanity light to add a hint of contemporary charm.
- Add a matte black vanity light to your bathroom, for a chic, monochromatic look.
- A antique brass vanity light can help add that classic art deco or mid-century look.
What Else to Think About When Buying a Vanity Light Fixture
When selecting the best modern vanity light fixture for your bathroom, you want to consider the amount of light you need in a space and the spot in which you want to install the lighting. Over the mirror, on either side of the mirror, between multiple mirrors – all potential options that can be combined together for larger bathrooms. Secondly, consider the finish of your vanity light to properly accentuate your space. Your vanity light does not have to match your mirror by any means, but should be a pleasant balance and match the hardware within your space. Lastly, consider the type of light your vanity fixture requires. LED lights are the most energy-efficient and low-maintenance, lasting for years without needing to change a bulb. LED light is also best for making your bathroom space look and feel clean.
Modern Vanity Lighting FAQs
- What Type of Lighting is Best for Vanity?
When selecting a light fixture for your bathroom, choose bulbs or LED fixtures that emit bright white light with a high CRI around 90-100 for the most accurate colors and a soft white range of 2700-3000k – especially great for proper makeup application.
- Should Vanity Light be Wider Than Mirror?
A good rule of thumb is to always choose a vanity light that is as wide, or slightly smaller –about 75% of the mirrors total width. Your vanity light should not overpower your mirror, but personal preference is always key.
- Can Vanity Lights Hang Over the Mirror?
Depending on the style of vanity light you choose, it can be installed over the mirror or flank either side, but the lighting fixture itself should never extend over the mirror or else it can cause down lighting which will cast shadows on the face.
- Should Vanity Lights be Up or Down?
Most vanity lights allow you to install them with the light pointed up or down. Lights pointed up provide a warm glow for ambient lighting, whereas downward pointed lights are best for task lighting. Having a mixture of both within your bathroom space will create the perfect spot to complete daily tasks and make proper use of your bathroom.