Natural light can be a huge difference in your bathroom and can transform a dark cramped area into a bright welcoming oasis. In the Canadian household, where sunlight is at times a scarce commodity, one must maximize the available natural light. Luckily, it is possible to maximize natural lighting in your bathroom, no matter how big or small it is, or how it is constructed. You can renovate or simply want to do some quick fixes; here are some ideas to help you bring natural light into your bathroom.
Choose the Right Window Placement
Maximize Window Size
Making your bathroom window bigger is one of the best solutions to allowing more light into your bathroom. In case of renovating, think about replacing small windows with bigger ones or putting several windows to get more sunlight. A larger window will also enable more natural light to come into the room making the room larger and airier. Just ensure that the windows are positioned in a manner that gives privacy.
Strategic Window Placement
When constructing or renovating your bathroom, window placement is important. Attempt to place windows on the exterior walls which face east or west as these directions are likely to be exposed to the most sunlight during the day. South-facing windows are also excellent in maximizing light particularly during winter when the angle of the sun is lower in the sky.
Install Skylights or Roof Windows
Skylights for Top-Down Light
Skylights are a great idea to introduce natural light into a bathroom; in case your space does not have exterior walls to install windows. Getting a skylight fitted will fill your bathroom with daylight, making the room look lighter and airier. They will also enable you to get in touch with nature and make your bathroom feel open air. Skylights are especially useful in non-windowed bathrooms where the light is needed overhead.
Roof Windows for Extra Illumination
In the event that you cannot use a conventional skylight in your bathroom, then you can have roof windows installed. Such windows are fitted in slanting roofs and can be an excellent option to attics or bathrooms on the upper floors. Roof windows provide a lot of light as well as a certain level of privacy because they are usually elevated and less noticeable on the outside.
Use Light-Coloured and Reflective Surfaces
Light-Coloured Walls and Tiles
The walls and tiles in your bathroom can be light-coloured so that more light can be reflected, thus illuminating your bathroom. Light-coloured shades such as white, light grey, soft beige, or pastel colours do not absorb the natural light, but reflect it, giving an illusion of a bigger and open space. To add more effect, you can use the light-coloured paint or glossy surfaces that will reflect the light in the room.
Reflective Materials
The effect of natural light can also be enhanced by use of reflective materials like glass, mirrors or shiny tiles. One wall can have a large mirror that can reflect light in your window and this will increase the light in the room twofold. You can also use mirrored furniture, glass shower doors and high gloss finishes on countertops and cabinets. These mirror surfaces will assist in dispersion of natural light within the area.
Keep Your Windows Clear and Unobstructed
Avoid Heavy Curtains or Blinds
Natural light can be blocked by heavy curtains or dark blinds that can be used in your bathroom. Rather, choose the sheer curtains, roller shades or venetian blinds, as they will allow the light to enter, but provide some privacy. Sheer window treatments are a great option in bathrooms as they are a soft diffused light that allows a relaxing environment.
Clear Your Window Area
Ensure that there is nothing blocking your window like furniture, plants, and ornaments. You can also open up the space around your window to enable greater light to flow in. Where there are windows that have built-in shelves or windowsills, these must be clean and clear of clutter to allow maximum flow of light.
Use Transom Windows or Privacy Glass
Transom Windows for Light and Privacy
In case you are interested in maximizing light, yet you need to have privacy, think about installing transom windows above your bathroom door or at the top of the wall. These are tiny horizontal windows that allow natural light to pass without loss of privacy. They are good in bathrooms on ground floors or in places where privacy is a necessity such as a home facing a street.
Privacy Glass for Bathroom Windows
Bathrooms that need to have natural lighting and privacy can be perfectly solved by having privacy glass or frosted glass. Privacy glass enables light to pass through but prevents the outside view. It is perfect when it comes to windows that overlook busy streets or adjacent houses. You may also choose to have an etched or patterned glass to add a bit of style and still have privacy.
Incorporate Open Shelving and Glass Elements
Open Shelving for an Airy Feel
Closed cabinetry may give a closed-in effect, impeding the natural light. Rather, open shelving may be an option as it will not only give your bathroom a more open feel but also permit light to move around your items. You will be able to place your favourite towels, soaps or any decorative items on the shelves and still maintain the space bright and airy.
Glass Shower Doors
Consider replacing heavy shower curtains with glass shower doors. Glass doors will enable the natural light to move freely in your bathroom without any obstacles. Plus, they give your bathroom a modern, sleek look. In case you are worried about privacy, you may select frosted or etched glass to be more discreet.
Choose the Right Lighting to Complement Natural Light
Maximize Natural Light with Layered Lighting
Besides ensuring that you maximize the level of natural light in your bathroom, you must also supplement it with the appropriate artificial lighting. To ensure that the atmosphere is light and welcoming even when the sun is not out, select light fixtures that resemble natural lighting, which could be warm LED lights or daylight bulbs. Combine your lighting by placing task lighting around the mirror and soft ambient lighting to balance it.
Dimmer Switches for Flexibility
Install dimmer switches on your bathroom lights to control the lighting levels throughout the day. In the morning, you might need brighter light for grooming tasks, while at night, you can lower the lighting to create a relaxing atmosphere.