Chandelier over vanity?

last year

I'm thinking of putting a small chandelier directly above the sink in my new hall bath. The vanity sits in an alcove, 36" wide. The chandelier will be capable of 5 times 750 lumens. Other lighting includes two can lights in a 9' ceiling. What do you think of vanity lighting straight overhead? Does anyone have such a setup and do you like it? Again, this is a hall bath (each bedroom has its own bath), so will not be used for much grooming. Thank you!

Featured Answer

arcy_gw

last year

Is it a hall bathroom as in no make up applying or shaving in it? Each facet on each crystal will cast a shadow. Not a great light for seeing what you are doing. Even cleaning will be a challenge with less than optimal lighting.

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Comments (7)

Lyn Nielson
last year
last modified: last year
it will be pretty, a statement, and reflect in the mirror, but it will cast a shadow.

I would still hang it. How about adding sconces at eye level on each side?
Laura thanked Lyn Nielson
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BeverlyFLADeziner
last year
Here are examples of lights being hung over the vanity. I don't think all are successful. Some of that has to do with the style of the light. Some has to do with the height of the light.

Light over top of a face will cast shadows down the surface of the face. All viewers will look OLD. Not sure my guests would appreciate that.
Laura thanked BeverlyFLADeziner
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Maureen
last year
last modified: last year
It think it comes down to the proportions, shape and style of the chandelier. Are you ok with it hanging in front of mirror and if not, a semi-flush pendant can still be impactful. Your mirror choice is important as well.
Laura thanked Maureen
PRO
Minardi
last year
It's terrible lighting for the person trying to use the mirror.
Laura thanked Minardi
Laura
Original Author
last year
Thanks to all...I know what you are saying is right. I'll keep working on sconces, they are a better, more practical option.
coastal_vibe
last year
Look for sconces that give ambient lighting. I'm in CA (where the lights need to be LED), and, regretfully, I chose pendants that I like, but they give downward task lighting (they light up the countertop.)

Before these lights were installed, I asked my designer if I should switch these with the lights I had chosen to go over the peninsula in my kitchen -- she said, "no," but I think I should have switched them.