Proper lighting in your bathroom, particularly in the shower, is essential for both functionality and aesthetics. Not only can good shower lighting enhance the overall ambiance, it helps to improve visibility and create a relaxing spa-like experience. Whether you're doing a minor refresh or a complete bathroom remodel, choosing the right shower lighting options can make a significant difference.
In this post, our design experts outline eight innovative shower lighting ideas to transform your bathroom. From recessed ceiling lights to contemporary shower niche lighting, we’ll cover various options to help you find the best shower lighting solutions for your remodel. Let’s dig in!
Bathroom Shower Lighting Ideas
Recessed Ceiling Lights
Explanation of Recessed Lighting and Benefits
Recessed ceiling lights, also sometimes referred to as can lights or downlights, are a popular choice for bathroom lighting thanks to their sleek, unobtrusive design and ability to provide even, focused illumination. This type of lighting is especially great in bathrooms where space is limited and a clean, modern aesthetic is desired. These lights are installed within the ceiling, providing a clean and streamlined look.
Various Designs
Recessed lighting comes in various designs and can be arranged to highlight different areas of your shower. Whether you prefer a minimalist design or a more customized setup, recessed lights can be tailored to fit your style and needs. You can control the placement of each light, so the options are endless.
LED Lighting
Introduction to LED Strip Lighting
LED strip lighting is an extremely versatile option for adding hidden illumination to your shower. These lights can be installed around the perimeter of the shower, along shelves, or even under the lip of a bathtub. And, because they are strips, it’s easy to tuck the lighting away for more of an ambient vibe.
Creative Ways to Incorporate LED Strips in Showers
Our designers love to use LED strips to highlight architectural features, create mood lighting or provide additional illumination in dark corners. LED strips can be cut to size and bent to fit almost any design, making them perfect for customizing your bathroom’s lighting.
Energy Efficiency of LED Lighting
LED lighting is not only stylish but also energy-efficient. These lights consume less power and have a longer lifespan compared to traditional bulbs, making them an eco-friendly choice for bathroom lighting ideas.
Waterproof Shower Light Fixtures
Types of Waterproof Light Fixtures
Safety is paramount in wet areas like showers for obvious reasons, which is why we always recommend using water-approved lighting in the bath. Waterproof light fixtures are specifically designed to withstand moisture and prevent electrical hazards, making them the safest choice.
Installing Waterproof Fixtures for Safety
When installing waterproof fixtures, ensure they are rated for use in wet locations. This will protect against water damage and reduce the risk of electrical accidents. That information should be listed on the retailer’s website or the packaging if you’re shopping in person.
Stylish Options for Waterproof Lighting
Waterproof fixtures come in various styles, from sleek and modern to classic and traditional, allowing you to choose a design that complements your bathroom decor. Our design team is more than happy to help you source the best choice for your bath remodel. There are so many amazing options available!
Color-Changing Shower Lights
Adding Ambiance with Color-Changing Lights
Color-changing lights can transform your shower instantly. These lights can be programmed to change colors, creating a dynamic atmosphere. For example, if you need help waking up in the morning, try a blue or cool white light. And if you want to relax instead, try a red tone which is known to be calming.
Using Smart Technology
Smart technology allows you to control color-changing lights with your smartphone via an app or even with voice commands, providing convenience and customization at your fingertips. You can even create a schedule so that the lighting is adjusted depending on the time of day.
Creating a Relaxing Shower Experience
The best part about using color-changing lighting is that it’s fully customizable! Set your lights to a blue for a wake up experience or a red for a more relaxing shower. Color-changing lights make it so easy to enhance your mood with lighting while also making your shower time more enjoyable.
Pendant Lights in Showers
Various Uses of Pendant Lights
Pendant lights are not just for kitchens or dining areas; they can also be used in showers to add a touch of elegance and style. Depending on your aesthetic and the height of your ceiling, this is the perfect way to bring some visual drama to your bath remodel.
Styles and Designs of Pendant Lights
When shopping for a pendant light in your bathroom, there are seemingly endless options, including industrial, modern, and vintage-inspired styles. Pendant lights are often used as a focal point or to complement other lighting in your bathroom, so make sure to choose wisely. If you’re feeling stuck with making the decision, our design team are pros at selecting lighting and making the process much easier.
Natural Light via Skylights
Incorporating Skylights for Natural Light
Skylights are an excellent way to bring natural light into your shower. They can brighten up the space and reduce the need for artificial lighting during the day. Plus, in Seattle a well-placed skylight often means ambient lighting even on our dreariest of days.
Benefits of Skylights in Showers
Natural light is truly the best way to enhance the overall ambiance of your bathroom, while also making it feel more open and inviting. Skylights can also help with ventilation which in turn reduces moisture buildup. Additionally, natural light has been shown to be beneficial for your mental well-being, creating a more pleasant and refreshing shower experience.
Are They Compatible With Your Shower?
Before adding a skylight to your shower area, check to make sure your bathroom layout and roof structure can accommodate a skylight. Professional installation is recommended to prevent leaks and ensure proper insulation. One of our pros will help you make the call as to whether a skylight is right for your home or not.
Backlit Mirrors and Wall Panels
Enhancing Shower Lighting with Mirrors
Backlit mirrors have become increasingly popular in recent years and are available at both big box stores and specialty retailers. The light emanates from behind the mirror, reducing shadows and providing even illumination. We love this type of mirror as a way to include additional lighting and create a luxurious look in your bathroom.
Creating an Illuminated Backdrop
Wall panels with integrated lighting are another great option that can serve as a decorative and functional element in your shower. These panels can highlight textures and materials, adding depth and interest to your bathroom design.
Contemporary Shower Niche Lighting
Niche Lighting Trends and Innovations
At CRD, we love a good shower niche. Not only do they offer practical storage, they can be enhanced with lighting to showcase products and create a focal point. LED strips are often used for niche lighting, providing a sleek, modern look. You can incorporate niche lighting in various ways, such as along the top or bottom edges of the niche, to create different effects.
In conclusion, from recessed ceiling lights to minimalist niche lighting, there are tons of shower lighting ideas to consider for your bathroom remodel. Each option offers its own unique benefits, whether it’s enhancing functionality, adding style or improving energy efficiency.
At CRD, we know that choosing the right lighting is crucial, but so is selecting a reputable design-build firm to execute your vision. Professional design-build services ensure that all elements, including lighting, are seamlessly integrated into your bathroom remodel.
By exploring these bathroom shower lighting ideas with your design build team, you can create a beautiful and functional space tailored to your preferences. Ready to take the next step? Fill out our contact form to get started consulting with a design-build expert to bring your dream bathroom to life with the best shower lighting options available!
