BRIGHT IDEAS

FIVE MINUTES WITH EMMA SCOTT, PRINCIPAL DESIGNER, C.P. HART

When do I need to think about lighting in my bathroom project? Try to plan the lighting scheme at the start of your project, so that it can be integrated into a lighting control system, if you have one. Good lighting can transform a room, so spend time working out which features you wish to highlight, where you need bright lighting and how you can switch to softer lighting to relax.

What comes next? Consider the main source of light in the room, which could be a central ceiling pendant, a series of downlights, or a combination of the two. Fix all the lights with dimmer switches, so that you can simply control the mood, from full brightness for cleaning the bathroom to soft light for a long, tranquil soak in the tub.

And other lights? Include layers of light if you can, such as wall lights on both sides of a mirror to cast an even light across your face for applying make-up. Some mirrors include integrated lighting, which is less decorative than wall lights but offers a sleek solution in modern bathroom designs or where wall space is limited.

LED strips or small marker lights can be used to highlight features. Try them in the floor to accentuate the role of a beautiful bath as a focal point or in wall niches to highlight an attractive display. Low-level soft lights on sensors are useful for guiding the way to the loo at night.

What do I need to know about safety? Use a qualified electrician to install any bathroom fittings. Lighting must comply with European safety regulations and be designed and rated to be protected against the ingress of water, known as IP rating. Choose fittings with the correct IP rating according to the zone where they will be used.