The most complex room to define lighting is in the bathroom. Whether it is basic or one of today’s huge, regal bathrooms, we as builders and of course designers always want the lighting to be right.
First consider the following:
Code:
There are a few specifics you must do:
1. Recessed lighting over bathtubs, spas and showers does not have to be wet rated, but you must use trims rated for spa and shower use. In addition to having a lens, these trims have a gasket to keep the moisture from seeping around the trim.
2. Remember, you must use high efficacy lighting or control the lighting with a motion sensor. New products on the market are the motion sensor dimmers! Great design can still meet California regulations.
3. In some cases recessed lighting will usually need to employ insulated ceiling (IC) and airtight (AT) housings above the ceiling. Yes, you can use regular housing if insulation is not present, but, of course, you can never go wrong with an IC-AT can.
Use Layers of Light:
We have discovered the best lighting designs in today’s market use several lighting systems or what we refer to as “layers” of light. Are you ready to get away from the large bright light in the center of the room? In addition to allowing the lighting to be more attractive, layered lighting creates many moods.
High Level Lighting:
1. Grooming: This task calls for relatively high light levels, especially in the vicinity of the main grooming mirror.
2. Dressing: A time when you are pulling items together, you need a high level of light.
Low Level Lighting:
1. Undressing: A time when high levels are not wanted. Dramatic and attractive lighting is what clients are looking for. This is a time to relax and enjoy the spa or tub. Dimming alone usually can’t create the right mood, while a combination of dimming and layers of light can do a wonderful job.
Task layer:
Separate your task lighting and your accent lighting. Using recessed downlights, illuminate the vanity top, provide a separate light for the tub or shower. Put the task layer on a separate switch or dimmer from the grooming light. The task layer often produces excellent “undressing” light. This is where we prefer to use low-voltage MR-16 lights due to the smaller size and the adjustability of the source. If there is a soaking tub or spa, add task light to illuminate a principal location for reading.
Ambient Layer:
The decorative layer of lights is drawn from beautiful sconces and decorative chandeliers. You never want too many downlights that would create a ceiling acne, but you do want softer sources for light and that’s where these added fixtures come in.
Night Lights (the final phase)
You get up in the middle of the night to use the facilities; just about any light is too much. Today we hardwire the LED night lights. 1W to 3W are needed. No more nightlights plugged into an outlet.
In today’s bathrooms, you are energy efficient, task-oriented and ready to relax. Yes you can have it all!
For more information, please call Piana Designs at 661-702-9490 or visit www.pianadesign.com.
