16 of the Best Bathroom Lighting Ideas 2022: Get the Look

Sep 22, 2023

Let there be light.

When homeowners embark on a renovation—whether a full gut overhaul or just modernizing one space—they often start in the bathroom. After you’ve tackled the bigger elements, including a new tub and shower, faucets, and maybe the floor, move on to the accents, which make a big difference. We’ve got a few stylish bathroom lighting ideas that will totally transform your space.

No matter the size of your bathroom, proper lighting that fills your space with a warm glow is essential. But before investing in new fixtures, consider a few factors. First and foremost, decide which type of light would best suit your space. The four most popular include wall sconces, which typically flank a mirror; flush mounts, ideal for bathrooms with low ceilings; hanging lights, small opportunities to make a statement; and recessed, common overhead lights that brighten the whole room. No matter which type of light you choose, your bathroom will surely become your new favorite space in the house. After all, nothing makes a bathroom feel more like a spa than soft ambient lighting.Here's the thing: Any light can work in the bathroom, so if you’re hunting around for the perfect fixture, rest assured that everything from vintage pendants to contemporary spotlights will get the job done. That said, if you need some inspiration to kickstart your renovation, we’re offering a variety of ways to incorporate light into your bathroom, as seen in our latest Renovations issue. These bathroom lighting ideas come from some of the world's most renowned interior designers, who have flawlessly incorporated unique fixtures into bathrooms near and far.

Opting for printed lampshades is one of the quickest and most effective ways to jazz up a bathroom. Pair them with colorful tiles to embolden the space even further, as Anna Spiro did here.

Back light your tub with a soft glow for an undeniably sexy atmosphere. The iridescent panther-and-plant-printed mural wallpaper accentuates the glow from the uplighting even further in this bathroom designed by Studio DB.

Two spotlights above a sleek white bathtub/shower combo set the stage for cool minimalism. They're fitting light fixtures for the edgy, modern bones of the space designed by Emil Dervish.

While some people like their bathrooms to look light and bright, others prefer a moodier feel. Here, Studio M flanked a dual vanity with its Stitched Down matte glass LED globe, which is attached to the bottom edge of a saddle-inspired leather panel.

Place your lights strategically. For example, in this bathroom designed by Grace Mitchell, the lights are placed above specific task zones, like the bathtub and sink area, ensuring that those areas are extra well-lit. An adjustable sconce is also a good call so you can move it depending on where you need more light.

Wood paneling painted in a soft greige shade creates a classic backdrop in this bathroom by Heidi Caillier. The brass details, from the faucet to the shower head and wall hooks, all contribute to the warm, low key elegance of the room. The linear sconce is the perfect scale for the arched mirror while the frosted glass softens the light it emits.

Nothing puts the spotlight on a bathtub like a dramatic pendant light. Here, designer Caroline Rafferty painted the ceiling a pitch black hue to make the white and airy environment feel formal and intimate, perfect for the gold pendant.

Nothing sets the mood in a bathroom quite like some flickering candles by the tub. The inky black clawfoot tub, bronze candlestick holders, and gilt framed artwork add an unexpected gothic twist to the light turquoise wall and lime green and coral candlesticks in this eclectic bathroom designed by Sean Scherer.

Recessed lighting is a good call if you prefer clean, crisp, modern interiors (these are also one of the safer lighting options for wet environments since they're protected by the ceiling). A geometric, gird-like tile design and deep blue sink vanity ensure an edgy, unique, almost gallery-like tone in this bathroom by Emil Dervish. Also, a wall-to-wall mirror will help light bounce more in smaller bathrooms.

Though it may not seem like the most obvious choice, a classic table lamp can be perfect for the a bathroom with a large enough surface for it to sit on. Anna Spiro Design chose a colorful, print-mixing option for extra character.

Sconces and coordinating flush mounts will guarantee plenty of light and a consistent look. Opt for something simple and modern if your bathroom is crisp, clean, and formal like this space by NicoleHollis.

Fiona Lynch Studio opted for a rich shade of Kelly green for a bold, streamlined space. The lone low-hanging pendant light is slightly unexpected, yet it works perfectly in the modern and glam environment.

Ditch the gigantic mirror for an artful sconce that doubles as decor instead. With chic Art Deco-inspired elements, this bathroom designed by Studio DB is also super functional, thanks to the towel hooks and racks.

Track lighting can be super cool, especially if you install them vertically on the wall instead of overhead. Sleek materials are the only adornment you need, as design firm Hecker Guthrie proves in this tribute to luxe and streamlined modernity.

Get creative with your lighting placement—it's okay if your sconces can't go on the wall directly above the sink. Instead, put them on the surrounding walls in a small space so you still get plenty of light and style without throwing the scale off (or hammering a little too close to a window).

You can't always control how much natural light you get, but if you've got it, flaunt it. Emily Henderson Design did so by positioning the tub right by three large bay windows. It's the most flattering and peaceful light to bathe in. Just add curtains or blinds to create privacy when need be.

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