Merriam Webster has two definitions of vanity: a fashionable trifle or
knickknack. Or, a bathroom cabinet containing a sink and usually having a counter top.
In lighting we combine the two so your vanity light, or
bath light
, becomes a fashion statement in the area over your sink. Vanity
lighting is common in movies and TV shows that contain scenes showing theater dressing rooms where
they are used above and on the sides of the
mirrors
. This technique provides excellent lighting for your daily
routine while still providing a great looking design for your bathroom.
Bath lights provide great general illumination in the bathroom and often work well in
conjunction with
ceiling lighting
. Of course, they are also perfect
task lighting
for the activities you do in front of the mirror.
These days bathroom lighting has grown up and become as beautiful as it is
functional. You have plenty more to choose from than a simple strip of bulbs for the
vanity. Kichler has a huge variety and selection of bath lighting so you will have no trouble
finding the light that matches your style. From the clean and simple strips of vanity lights, to
intricately carved bath lights and every style in between, Kichler has it available. In
addition, many of our bath lights belong to coordinated families so you can keep the same look and
style throughout your home. Especially important are the
wall sconces
and mirrors we have to match your vanity lights.
One light, two light, three light and four light bath lights are very common, and
even longer styles with six, seven or eight lights are available. Vanity strip lights can
even be as long as twelve lights to accommodate the largest bathrooms. Many bath lights can be
installed with the glass pointing up or down, so your design possibilities are broader than they
appear.
Kichler also offers Beautywraps, our unique five light bath light which has three
overhead lights and two mini pendants on each side. The result is a soft light from above and
both sides that is flattering to you and your bathroom. Best of all, it only uses one
electrical outlet.
The following questions and answers about bath lights and vanity
lighting, as well as other important lighting questions, can be found in our guide,
Selecting Lighting For Your Home.
Q – What’s the best way to light a bath or powder room? A – Most of us want to see a clear reflection in our bathroom or powder room mirrors so we
can apply makeup properly or shave without cutting ourselves or simply brush our teeth correctly.
To avoid shadows, and to fully surround your face with flattering light, install a fixture
at least 24” wide over the mirror, plus two wall sconces (one on each side of the mirror) at least
28” apart and 60” above the floor. The Kichler “ Beauty Wraps™ can do this by using only one
electrical outlet. They allow matching mini pendants to surround the mirror while also
providing light from above.
If you have a double sink vanity, use a light that is almost as wide as the mirror.
The light should be mounted 78” from the floor, centered over the mirror.
Q – What if I have a truly large bathroom? A – Besides the vanity/mirror lighting, you will probably need an additional flushmount or
semi flush fixture with possible recess lighting in shower areas. A Kichler mini
chandelier could provide more light while adding a touch of décor to the room.