LED Lighting Ideas for your Bathroom

If you're not incorporating LED lighting into your bathroom design, you're missing out on a simple yet transformative way to elevate its ambiance and functionality. LED lighting isn't just a trend; it's a game-changer in modern interior design, especially for bathrooms. Here’s why integrating LED lights should be at the top of your bathroom upgrade list:

LED Mirrors - Enhancing Functionality and Style

One of the most popular choices for integrating LED lighting is through mirrors. LED mirrors not only add a touch of modern elegance but also serve a crucial functional purpose. Imagine effortlessly adjusting the brightness and light temperature with a simple touch button while applying makeup or grooming. This feature not only enhances visibility but also ensures precision in your daily routines.

Which type of mirror should I use?

There are several LED mirror options to select from and it’s important to select the style based on your specific requirements. For example, you can have LED back lighting which means the mirror is set out from the wall a little and an LED strip light is run behind the mirror around the perimeter (set back a bit to conceal it from view). This gives a really nice glow to the edges of the mirror and creates a luxurious ambience. This can be really great in powder rooms or space where it’s not so critical to have the LED as a functional light source.

LED lighting integrated into the front face of the mirror provides even illumination across your face. This ensures better visibility for tasks such as shaving, applying makeup, or grooming, especially in dimly lit bathrooms. Many of these mirrors come with a touch button on the front where you can adjust the brightness of the light and even the light temperature ie. whether warm or cool lighting. We like to use this style of mirror in ensuites and also family bathrooms.

It is also possible to purchase mirror cabinets that have integrated LED lights on the door fronts. This is a good option if you love the look of the LED mirrors but also need to have the storage behind. These can be made to order in a size and configuration that works best for your space.

LED Under Vanity Lighting

Practical and Energy Efficient

Another brilliant application of LED lighting is under vanity cabinets, often equipped with motion sensors. This innovative addition ensures you never stumble around in the dark during those late-night bathroom visits. This is perfect for small children who need the light to find their way to the bathroom safely during the night, without it being so bright it makes them think it’s time to get up!

By automatically illuminating when needed, these lights provide just the right amount of brightness without the need to switch on overhead lights, making them both practical and energy-efficient.

If your vanity is to be custom made you can have the LED light installed by the cabinetmaker underneath the vanity in a recessed groove or if your vanity is off-the-shelf your electrician can add this feature when installing.

Under vanity LED lighting creates a warm glow and is very practical for night time bathroom visits.

LED Strip Lighting in Shower Niches

Creating a Spa-like Atmosphere

Transforming your shower into a luxurious sanctuary is easily achievable with LED strip lighting. Installed within shower niches, these subtle yet effective lights create a soothing ambiance reminiscent of a high-end spa. The gentle glow not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your bathroom but also elevates your showering experience to a new level of relaxation.

Make sure you plan ahead for this feature as your electrician will need wiring in the wall prior to the tiles being installed, and your tiler will need to leave a recessed space to fit the LED strip after completion.

A recessed LED strip light is installed in the shower niche.

Highlight a special feature

LED strip lighting in a bathroom can also be used to create visual impact by highlighting key features such as a luxurious bath or intricate feature tiles. Positioned discreetly behind a freestanding bath, LED lights can cast a soft, ambient glow, giving it a luxurious resort vibe.

When used to accentuate feature tiles, these lights can draw attention to the texture and design, adding depth and sophistication to the space. The versatility of LED strip lighting allows for creative placements, enhancing both the functionality and aesthetics of the bathroom.

Why LEDs Are a Must-Have

Incorporating LED lighting into your bathroom design elevates both its look and functionality. LED mirrors offer enhanced visibility and a modern touch, while under vanity lighting provides practical, energy-efficient solutions for nighttime use. LED strip lights in shower niches create a spa-like ambiance, and highlighting features like a luxurious bath or intricate tiles adds sophistication. By integrating these LED solutions, you can transform your bathroom into a stylish, functional, and relaxing space.

All photos in this article are bathrooms designed by Suzanne Allen Design