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Mirror and light over 30 inch vanity

2 years ago

Dear Houzz community,


We are installing a 30 inch vanity in our basement bathroom. Originally I purchased this lighting from West Elm (below), however the two lights are only 16.7 inches wide, and I'm starting to wonder if I made a mistake.


Should I keep the two-light version of this sconce and if so what size mirror would I use?


Should I go with the three-light version, which is almost 26 inches wide and if so what size mirror would I use?


Or should I just find a different light altogether? Dimensions seem to be my krypronite and I'm grateful, as always, for this community.




Comments (5)

  • 2 years ago

    I am not a design professional but have been advised that mirror should be larger than your sink and smaller than your vanity. That is typically 20-24 inches wide for a mirror. It depends on the look you are going for but I personally like 22 or 24 inches. If your basement bathroom has no other source of light, you will likely need a larger light fixture.

    I C thanked ann_ginn43
  • PRO
    2 years ago

    I agree with comment above, but as an aside: I LOVE the light you chose!! Whether it ends up working or not :)

    I C thanked Sophia Van Zyl
  • 2 years ago

    I have a fixture from the same line with three lamps, I find it perfect over my 30" vanity. Especially in a basement you may want more light!

    I C thanked rebasheba
  • PRO
    2 years ago
    last modified: 2 years ago

    Hi there,

    Choosing the right mirror and light fixture can indeed make a significant impact on your bathroom's aesthetic and functionality. For a 30-inch vanity, here are some considerations based on your options:

    1. Two-Light Sconce (16.7 inches wide): If you prefer the two-light sconce from West Elm, it can work well with a mirror that is slightly wider than the vanity itself. A mirror around 24 to 28 inches wide would provide ample coverage and balance with the sconce.
    2. Three-Light Sconce (26 inches wide): Opting for the three-light version will provide more illumination and a broader light spread. For this option, consider a mirror that matches or slightly exceeds the width of the sconce, around 26 to 30 inches wide.
    3. Exploring Different Light Fixtures: If neither option feels quite right, exploring different light fixtures could be beneficial. Look for fixtures that align better with the size of your vanity and the overall aesthetic you're aiming for.


    To help visualize, you can use painter's tape on the wall to outline different mirror sizes or mock up the lighting with cardboard cutouts to see how they fit the space. This can provide a clearer picture of how each option will look and function in your basement bathroom.


    Feel free to reach out on my Houzz profile if you need further advice or have any more questions about your bathroom design!

    I C thanked Carole Vaudable Interior Design
  • PRO
    2 years ago
    last modified: 2 years ago

    The light is fine, assuming bulb wattage capacity and lumens, and I'd get a 24 inch wide x 36h mirror......a size that abounds on the internet: ) in multiple finishes for frames, or frameless.

    We don't know if you have a full bath, or if this is essentially a powder room. Lighting requirements are different in each.

    I C thanked JAN MOYER