bathroom vanity lights facing up or down

last year

I have a guest bathroom containing a tub/shower and toilet upstairs that has a 42" vanity with 9' ceilings. The bathroom is small but everything is painted white with marble countertops. I have a 3 light wall light that can face up or down. It is being installed over a 30' round wall mirror. Which way should I face the lights? Up or down? The only other light in the bathroom is a heater/fan/light.

Featured Answer

PRO

StarCraft Custom Builders

last year

Vanity lamps should be placed to the side of the mirror even with your face. You want lighting to illuminate without the deep shadows resulting from overhead lighting.

For more information, see:

The Illustrated Rules of Good Bathroom Design. Guideline 25: Lighting.

Bathroom Mistakes That Owners Regret. 7. Poor Lighting.

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Comments (6)

PRO
HALLETT & Co.
last year
Photos would help is help you.
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PRO
Patricia Colwell Consulting
last year
I do not like sconces in bathrooms so i use nice light bars with down lights since the light is needed to light my face and the space . I do however in larger bathrooms do both pot lights and the bar . I rarely do round mirrors so maybe post pics of both her ein a comment .
ljlc4003 thanked Patricia Colwell Consulting
3onthetree
last year
Down.
ljlc4003 thanked 3onthetree
Maureen
last year
I prefer down visually and for better lighting. If you look on line, 99% are downwards.
ljlc4003 thanked Maureen
Mrs Pete
last year
Random thoughts:

- Especially in a small bathroom, go with a larger mirror -- 42" edge to edge with a frame. It'll make your room feel larger, and it'll be more functional, it'll allow you to see your outfit instead of just your face.

- Ideally you'd have two sconces (or two pendants) flanking the mirror at face-height. This'll put the light where you need it, and it won't throw unflattering shadows on your face.

- Regardless of where you place the sconces, place them in the "downward" position. This means bugs won't die in your globes, creating another chore for you.