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How to Choose the Right Bathroom Vanity Lighting

How to Choose the Right Bathroom Vanity Lighting

by admin · Oct 27, 2024

When done right, your bathroom lighting should be able to take you from a bright morning routine to an evening spa break to a midnight trip to the restroom without feeling too over or underpowered in any scenario.

Most builder-grade vanity lights just don’t cut it. They’re often too high, too bright or dim, and don’t really add much to the design of your bathroom. So if you’re ready to try something new, we’ve compiled a list of the most common vanity light fixtures to help you figure out precisely what you (and your bathroom routine) need to create the bathroom oasis you deserve. 

Here is a short list of light fixtures and bulbs to consider so that you’ll be prepared to balance the functionality and style according to your budget and available space.

Types of Vanity Light Fixtures

Your bathroom vanity includes the mirror, counter, sink, and surrounding lighting. Vanity lighting is often the only source of light in the bathroom – and it largely determines your experience there. So it’s important to get it right!

There are several types of vanity light fixtures, each with its own set of benefits. Which one you choose is up to you – but make sure you consider both style and function to make sure you’re happy with the result.

Vanity Light Bar 

Light bars are the most common fixture for bathroom vanities because they’re easy to install and give off a lot of light. Light bars consist of a long base (the bar) with light emanating from its entire length. They’re usually mounted just above the mirror from a single, central wiring box. 

Most people picture a base with multiple bulbs sticking out into the room, like you’d see in a “builder’s grade” new home or surrounding the mirror in a makeup artist’s studio. Other light bars consist of a single, long light source, such as a sleek LED bar or a fluorescent tube. 

The advantage to installing light bars is that they create even lighting with fewer shadows. (Anyone who’s ever done makeup or shaved using a bathroom mirror knows how important that is!)

Pro tip: The most crucial part of successfully using a light bar is getting the proper proportions. Ensure the bar is at least 75% the mirror’s width and never longer than the counter below. Keeping the bar at least 6-6.5 ft high will give even light without shining directly into your eyes. 

Mirror-framing Sconces 

Sconces are light fixtures that attach to the wall rather than the ceiling. They’re often found above the center of the mirror, although it’s worth considering placing your sconces on either side of the mirror– you’ll get the best light for your morning routine and playfully break from tradition! 

The number of bulbs and types of shades will impact your placement. Some shades only allow for downward light, so those work best up high. Glass shades are a little more forgiving – they’ll shine light on your face when installed above or to the side of the mirror. 

Not only are sconces an excellent fit for lighting your vanity, but they also make a statement. You’ll show that you put real thought into your bathroom design by using a non-traditional fixture.

Pro tip: We recommend mounting sconces with the center of the fixtures about 60″ high and about 28″ apart. Try installing one on either side of your mirror to get even, shadow-free light on your face as you’re getting ready.

Unexpected Pendants

If you’re looking for a way to make your bathroom look unique, try out pendant lighting. These fixtures hang directly from the ceiling, with the bottom of the shade right above eye level. Not only are pendants a bold statement, but they’re also a versatile option if you’re short on space.

In a bathroom, sconce and pendant placement guidelines are very similar. A single pendant directly over the mirror is an excellent option for small bathrooms. They also work well as a pair, framing the mirror on either side. 

Because pendants have an extra “wow” factor, they’re also sometimes used in larger groups to create a design element. For example, this designer hung multiple pendants along the mirror – and we think it turned out great!

Pro Tip: We recommend spacing your pendants about 30 inches apart to avoid harsh lighting. Also, keep in mind the pendant’s ability to shine directly onto the mirror– a thin or transparent shade will reflect a lot of light. It’s a good trick to make your space feel brighter but may cast unexpected shadows.

Modernize with LEDs

For a modern (and energy-efficient) touch, consider opting for LED lights. They last for years, cost little to run, and come in a wide variety of color options.  LED light bulbs can be installed in almost any fixture in place of a traditional bulb.

Some light fixtures come with LED lights already integrated, which means you’ll never have to change a bulb for the life of the fixture. While these mirrors come in a variety of styles, they’re most often found in sleek, modern bathrooms with a minimalist feel. 

LED strip lights may be an unexpected choice for the bathroom. They’re easy to install (some are even peel-and-stick!) and will make your bathroom feel high-end with just a little bit of creativity. As vanity lighting, try installing them behind a mirror to give a soft, luxurious glow. 

Pro tip: Because they are so small, LED strip lights can be tucked in unexpected places, like along the underside of a mirror to light the counter, or along the bottom of a floating vanity to light the space underneath. Adding light to dimly-lit edges and corners of your bathroom will make it feel bigger!

When to Hire a Pro

If you own a newer home and have tools handy, you can probably handle most light fixture upgrades yourself. But not all fixture update projects are created equal. For example, you may have an older home that requires electrical updates, don’t own tools, need new circuits for new fixture locations, or simply don’t feel comfortable with an electrical project. 

Electricians will ensure your new fixture is installed quickly and safely. Not sure how to hire a qualified electrician? No problem! Your local lighting showroom can often connect you to a great pick– and offer a wider selection of fixtures while you’re there!

Ready to update your bathroom vanity? The experts at Hobrecht Lighting can help you find the right fixture for your room, budget, and style. Contact us today!

Filed Under: 2022, Bathroom, Bathroom Lights

3 Bathroom Dilemmas We Don’t Talk About Enough

3 Bathroom Dilemmas We Don’t Talk About Enough

by admin · Jan 27, 2024

Now that we’ve given plenty of attention to the age-old debate about how to place toilet paper, I think it’s time to move on to something else. A well-lit bathroom can make or break your morning routine, and vanity lighting is a huge part of that! How often do we really stop to consider vanity lighting, however?

We’ve compiled the 3 most vital elements of vanity lighting and a summary of each topic. After you read and feel informed, pick your side! If you haven’t had these debates with your spouse, parents, or roommates yet, NOW is the time. These details can really maximize your bathroom space and transform your morning routine.

1. How to Hang: Up or Down?

The first thing you should consider is how to hang your vanity lights—shining up or down? First, consider how you’ll use these lights. Are they direct task lighting? If so, angle down or at the face. An indirect light source for style and mood? Shine them up.

If you have a bathroom with a darker color palette, a downward hanging light may suit you best. Why? Darker colors soak up more light, and hanging it downward will focus the light on the area you really want to be illuminating.

If your bathroom has a lighter color, palette an upward hanging light will work best for the space. Why? The light reflects off of the ceiling and walls, amplifying the overall light for the entire room. Regardless of which direction you hang them, vanity lights should hang high off of the floor, approximately 78 inches.

2. Clear or Frosted Glass?

You may have already had this debate when choosing other fixtures, but it’s especially relevant to vanity lights. They’re closer to eye level and more frequently viewed than most home fixtures, so choose well here!

In my years at a lighting showroom, the more popular choice has always been frosted glass. Why? One favorite feature about frosted glass is that it shines a soft ambient light. It still provides plenty of lumens, but isn’t too harsh on the eye. They also require less cleaning, since you’re unlikely to see fingerprints or smudges. A weekly light dusting should do the trick.  

On the other hand, I’ve encountered many lovers of clear glass. For one thing, they distribute more lumens, since the glass doesn’t diffuse the light. They’re often better for task lighting, aiding in accurate shaving or makeup application. The exposed light bulbs also add an element of style with different shaped filament bulbs.

3. What Fixture Size Is Best?

There’s a lot of variety in vanity fixtures. Some are small and dainty, others dramatic and large. We’ll let you have those infinite debates of taste as you surf Pinterest or our online catalog, but for now we’ll do you a favor and insert a lesser-known detail about proportions.

If your vanity light fixture is going over a single sink bowl, the fixture should be at least ¾ the size of the length of the mirror. Center it above the sink, and never select vanity lights that exceed the length of the mirror. If your vanity has two or more sinks, the same rules apply and you would center each light over its respective sink.

So there it is—the bathroom dilemmas no one talks about. Lighting matters! And fitting your vanity lighting to your unique taste will ensure an even better morning routine and evening wind-down experience.

Filed Under: Bathroom Lights, Styles & Trends

7 Ways to Transform Your Bathroom

7 Ways to Transform Your Bathroom

by admin · Jan 20, 2024

Your primary living spaces aren’t the only rooms in your home that showcase your style, so it’s time to show your bathroom a little love, too! Sure, normal décor pieces are a good start – an awesome striped accent wall, your favorite waterproof art piece, or a brightly patterned shower curtain. To take it to the next level, however, consider adding some flair to the functional pieces of your room, like your lighting. Wondering how to start? Here are 7 tips, and plenty of examples, to show you how to transform your bathroom lighting and style.

1. Use Striking Wall Colors

Coloring with contrasts make for a striking match with any vanity set. A simple, yet functional brass light fixture ties the whole look together, while still providing the bright light you need to get ready every morning.

Sometimes, simplicity makes for the best design. Matte black task lighting, bright yellow bulbs, and a textured black backdrop create a truly showstopping combination, adding a dramatic effect that’s sure to leave any guests talking.

2. Color-Coordinate Your Hardware

Make any vanity look luxe with gold features. Coordinate your drawer handles, faucets, and light fixtures for a put-together feel. Especially when paired with simple blacks and whites, these accents really shine!

This bathroom uses a brilliant geometric design as a wall accent, then simplifies the space with a clean-cut, over-the-mirror light fixture in a pretty accent color. The result is an engaging, but not overly busy, bathroom look.

3. Use Chandeliers to Make a Statement

Create a primping room fit for a Hollywood A-lister by using some surprisingly simple décor essentials: a classic vanity, glamorous chandelier, and patterned walls. The result? A bathroom with a touch of flair, lots of style, and a slight air of drama. We love it!

Want a more understated room with just a touch of glitz? You can still lounge in luxury as you soak beneath a dazzling chandelier.

4.  Mix Natural and Modern Elements

Bring all of the soothing spa vibes to your own bathroom while still keeping it chic. Here, natural wood elements are balanced with sleek, simple light fixtures and mirrors that provide an understated modern touch.

This bathroom makes a great use of natural touches with wooden shelves and small potted plants. To top it off, the light fixture’s wavy, modern design sends an organic “go with the flow” impression that matches the tone of the room’s décor.

5. Choose Fixtures that Create or Compliment Bold Color Accents

If you want a pop of color in your bathroom, but you aren’t willing to commit to a full accent wall, try colorful light fixtures! These red lights are a bright spot in a white room that draw attention and add style without being overwhelming.

If you’ve got some fun color elsewhere, like this vintage yellow toilet and sink, that’s great! This black fixture blends with the style and lets the colorful toilet and sink truly shine.

6. Embrace Classic Elements

If you’re looking for a simple, sophisticated bathroom, this one will suit your tastes. The vanity set and walls have subtle detailing, while the silver light fixtures boast clean lines and an elegant silhouette. 

Here, a large, gorgeous vanity takes center stage. Combined with modest, shaded light fixtures, the overall effect is timeless and elegant.

7. Play Around with Interesting Shapes

Hoping to create a quaint, charming wash room? A minimalist vanity, pretty wall pattern, and small vase of flowers are a good way to start. The light is a beautiful finishing touch: it’s simple enough to highlight the other design elements, but the double-sided fixture is unique enough to add some extra flair.

In this bathroom, diamonds are everyone’s best friend. Flanking the mirror with unusual diamond-shaped light fixtures creates a distinctive, fashionable element, making this space seem subtly one-of-a-kind.

While the task lighting on each side of the mirrors is straightforward, it’s the unusual shape of the overhead lighting that commands attention in this modern bathroom. The overall effect? A bathroom that’s stylish, sleek, and unique.

Feeling inspired? Transform your bathroom into a space that’s truly yours with any of these simple tips. Whether you add an accent wall, a colored fixture, some interesting shapes or natural elements, we’re sure you’ll love the effect! Best of luck from us here at Hobrecht Lighting.

Filed Under: Bathroom Lights, Styles & Trends

Home Lighting Design Guide for Every Space

Home Lighting Design Guide for Every Space

by admin · Nov 4, 2023

Lighting – it can make or break a room, budget, or mood. Do you feel inadequate to style your home whether it is a new build, under full renovation, or just itching for some change?

Knowing proper interior aesthetic and design principles; including contrast, balance, movement, texture, proportion, repetition, and color when it comes to incorporating the right type of lighting in your home can be difficult. You can feel completely overwhelmed as to where to start and have no idea how to make your home feel like those you see on television, in showrooms, or displayed in magazines.

We are here to help. We have years of experience and lighting experts to assist you every step of the way to make your home a place you love.

When it comes to selecting the proper light or style for each room in your home, consider the following tips. This simple home lighting design guide can help you become the skilled interior designer you’ve always wanted to be.

Broken up by room, this home lighting design guide will become a quick reference and can assist you in knowing what types of light to add, incorporate, or switch out of your space.

Regardless of the room, there is a key principle to consider and understand when implementing the perfect light into a space.

Layering Light is the secret to creating the perfect light in every space. There are three common ways to layer light which include ambient, task, and accent or decorative forms.

  • Ambient — also referred to as general lighting fills a room. It can be in the form of recessed lighting, wall-mounted lighting fixtures, or even track lighting.
  • Task — takes into consideration what activities or events will take place in a specific room. Some tasks require brighter more focused light, whereas other tasks could be completed with dimmer accent lighting options. Table or floor lamps are a great example of task lighting. This type of lighting will influence the type of fixture and the placement throughout the space.
  • Accent/Decorative — can be bold or simplistic depending on the placement. It is usually implemented to highlight a specific area of focus. An example might be picture lights or wall sconces. Dimmer lights would also be considered a form of accent light as it helps build mood an ambiance when applied strategically.

Lighting Tips per Room

Consider what activities, events, or tasks are completed in each room of your home when trying to find the right lighting solution. It will provide insight into where you need to place a lighting fixture, how much light is needed, and what style could be best.

Bedroom

Most activities or events are conducted in other rooms throughout the house, but this space cannot be forgotten, so using a home lighting design guide will be crucial in achieving the look you want. Within the bedroom, you might want to read a book in bed or browse the internet on your mobile device. Task lighting, such as adjustable wall mounted lighting fixtures installed on both sides of the bed can help you receive directed light and help you focus. A combination of general and task lighting can help establish a space where you can wind down, relax, and enjoy peace and quiet.

Previously, bedroom lighting has solely consisted of a single central lighting fixture overhead like a flush mount, semi-flush mount, or pendant lighting fixture with the occasional task lighting on nightstands or end tables. Some improvements to bedroom lighting might be adding easily accessible switches for each of the wall mounted lighting fixtures for easy access to turn on and off before bed, upgrading the central switch in the room by adding a dimmer, and purchasing energy efficient light bulbs.

The lifestyle, age, and preference of those who reside in your home is also important to note, as more light might be required to accomplish specific activities. If utilizing a desk, table, or floor lamp directly, adjust the light so you do not look into the light bulb when lying or sitting in bed.

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Family Room

As a general gathering place for events and activities, this room has a lot of foot traffic. Engaging in a wide variety of activities, the family room is most likely the most popular gathering place within your home. Additionally, this room is used to entertain when guests come over to play games, watch television, read, or just hang out.

Utilizing vertical planes when upgrading lighting in the family room will cause you to look towards the ceiling instead of down at your feet influencing your mood and energy. Brighten up a corner throughout the room by adding accent or task lighting like a floor lamp or wall sconces. Another way to add light is to highlight the fireplace, book shelves, or other large furnishings with background lighting solutions.

Improve your current lighting design by changing the room architecture, if possible, by integrating cove or valance lighting in addition to installed lighting. Switching out flush mounts, installing a large intricate chandelier, or adding wall sconces are all great lighting options to consider also. Consider installing a dimmer to all lighting fixtures to maximize control and create flexibility with how much light is emitted.

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Dining Room

The primary focus of this room is the table, as you gather your family to eat which is usually lit minimally with ambiance or general lighting fixtures overhead. Focused lighting in this space is important.

Usually narrow in space and unique in orientation, the dining room, can be difficult to configure; however, evaluating the wall treatments and implementing lighter wall colors with strategic lighting fixtures into the design will make the room appear bigger and brighter. If the wall color is darker in color, consider increasing the lumens in all fixtures to create more light.

The dining room traditionally has one general illumination, like a chandelier, flush mount, or island light, in the middle of the room or above the table. However, you could add wall sconces, floor lamps, or cove lighting in conjunction to a statement piece to create more compelling lighting treatment. Adding a dimmer to the central switch could allow you to have more flexibility to the amount of light throughout the space.

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Kitchen

The kitchen is also a common gathering place for people and activities, but the area of focus is food preparation and very focused tasks. Bright light is best in this room and can be achieved by high lights and a large number of recessed lighting around the perimeter of the room.

Depending on the size of your kitchen, it will determine exactly what layers of light are recommended. This space is great for implementing all three types of light – ambient, task, and accent. Be sure to use a home lighting design guide to properly implement the diverse light design in this space.

For a small kitchen, rely on a central ceiling fixture for ambient light, with lighting placed under the cabinets to provide task lighting for the counters and workspace when prepping food, and pendants above the island as additional task or ambient lighting. These improvements or layers of light will make the space appear larger and more inviting. Whereas, in a larger more elaborate kitchen you may have to incorporate more task and accent lighting to light up the entire space with more cabinets and a larger island.

The sink, usually placed below or near a window, is a functional and key design within most homes as it provides natural light into the space and creates balance.

Changing all of the lights to be on a dimmer and ensuring light bulbs are energy efficient will improve the lighting flexibility.

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Bathroom

As this room is used primarily for personal grooming, it can require intricate lighting. Being aware of shadows and knowing the best way to disperse light can make this space more inviting.

Integrate motion lights under the cabinet base as accent lighting to give the space a nice glow and add another layer of light. Add task lighting to balance out the ambience lighting options throughout the space. It is important to have task lighting to provide a focused area and make sure it is bright enough to get the job done. Shower lights or bathroom exhaust fans can also help in adding brightness to a small space.

Avoid ambiance lighting fixtures above the sink, as it will create a dark shadow when looking into the mirror. Instead, try strip lighting behind free standing structures or floating shelves or bathroom sconces.

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Outdoor

As a complete home lighting design guide, outdoor lighting is an extension of your home.

Exterior lighting, also referred to as landscape lighting, primarily comes from the sense of providing security and safety to your home. As this lighting will be exposed to extreme weather conditions, it is best to think about the durability and quality of each fixture.

Keep the lighting outside simple, as more is not always better – a few bright lights in areas around your yard and house also creates dark corners making safety a concern. Therefore, lower amounts of light levels consistently will make a big difference. Increase the value to your home by adding post lights, security lights, or hanging lights to enjoy outdoor spaces even in the dark.

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Hobrecht Lighting also offers fixtures for all other spaces within your home including offices, stairways, entry ways, and hallways.

Try implementing some of the lighting recommendations and design elements provided in this home lighting design guide to make a room shine, on a budget, and increase your general happiness. Feel adequate to conquer any space in your home whether it is new or old.

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Filed Under: Bathroom Lights, Outdoor Lights, Styles & Trends

Why Your Bathroom Needs a Real-Life Magic Mirror (you will never be the same)

Why Your Bathroom Needs a Real-Life Magic Mirror (you will never be the same)

by admin · Sep 2, 2023

When fairy godmothers and magic wands are lacking, you can still treat yourself to a dramatic transformation each day, if your bathroom is a magical space. Of course, many details work together to create the perfect space, but one of the best ways to start is to make sure you get two essential elements working together… lights and mirrors.

This is where the beloved illuminated
mirror comes into play.

With clean lines, stylish designs,
and unmatched light quality, mirrors with built-in lights create sophisticated statement
pieces for modern bathrooms. They have an unusual ability to help you transform
yourself and your space at the same time.

At Hobrecht Lighting, we’ve been drooling
over these mirrors for a while now, but most people still haven’t heard of
them! So with that said, here are four ways that an LED illuminated mirror
create a little bit of magic in your bathroom.

LED
Illuminated Mirrors

1. They Amplify Your Style

LED mirrors come in many different
sizes to suit many needs, including those short or boxy bathrooms. They add a
sense of drama and sophistication to a room, and they showcase the wall behind
the mirror. Adding some kind of feature on the mirror wall now has DOUBLE the
impact, whether it’s a cool backsplash or an accent wall color.

2. They Add Atmospheric Lighting

LED illuminated mirrors provide an
even tone of light and a glow throughout the room. Many of them even have an
adjustable color temperature between warm white, natural white, and cool white.
Whatever you’re feeling, these mirrors have a mood lighting to match.

3. They Maximize Your Bathroom Tasks
for a Better Look

Whatever your morning routine looks
like, an LED mirror is sure to make it easier. Focused mirror lighting gives
you a clearer view of your face, improving make-up application and anything
else. I promise I’m addressing the men here, too—the extra light also helps
with shaving, since you can more easily see any spots you may have missed.

4. They Magically Defog Themselves

As if this couldn’t get any better,
some of our favorite LED mirrors now come equipped with a defogger in them. What
could be better than getting out of a hot steaming shower to a totally clear
mirror? Enjoy that steamy goodness while you move on with your necessary tasks.

Ready to take a look for yourself? In addition to all of the perks listed above, they offer even MORE great features, such as:

  • Touch Control Technology
  • Waterproof Grade
  • Built in night light
  • ETL Certification
  • 3 year warranty

Visit us here.

Filed Under: Bathroom Lights, Styles & Trends

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