Lighting can be used to create the mood of the room, and with several different lighting options, you can transform the room from a bright, functional area to a softly lit, relaxing atmosphere.

If you are completely redoing your room you will need to plan your lighting so that the necessary electrical work can be done at the building stage. Walls may need chasing to allow wires to be concealed. However, if you are working with existing electrics you can still use them to your advantage by changing the types of lights you have.

Make lighting work for you

Different types of lighting fulfil various different tasks; amenity lighting provides general all-over illumination and can be provided by artificial lights or natural daylight. Task lighting is required to highlight specific areas like the mirror for shaving or applying make-up. Lights can be used to create specific effects, highlighting architectural detail or items on a shelf, and can be used to dramatic effect. Ambient lighting can create certain moods – candles and soft lighting can create a relaxing atmosphere.

Many lighting manufacturers supply specific ranges suitable for use in the bathroom. Shower lights are available which can be recessed into the ceiling, which are shower resistant, sealed units. Alternatively why not consider outdoor and marine light fittings.

Ways of creating light

Firstly consider how much natural light is available, is it possible to gain more natural light by adding a skylight or another window? Make good use of the natural light that you do have by using sheer fabric on windows to soften and diffuse bright light and mirrors to reflect natural or artificial light to create the illusion of more space. Opaque glass can be used to provide privacy.

change your mood…
top tips Glass mosaic tiles, a white bathroom suite and metallic finishes all reflect the light and can be used to brighten the room. For walls or dividers consider using glass bricks to maximise light. These are available in many forms such as clear, blue or green coloured with plain, textured or sandblasted finish. Check building regulations and use specialists if replacing existing walls.

Vary lighting to reflect the different times of the day, morning light needs to be bright and stimulating, whereas evening light should be subdued and relaxing. *Candlelight is the most atmospheric and soothing light, however candles are a fire risk and must never be left unattended. Never place candles directly onto an acrylic bath, always use a heat resistant holder and take care to extinguish when leaving the room. Beeswax candles may be safer as they burn longer and do not spit.

Don't forget that the use of colour can create an illusion of space and light. Cool blues, greens and greys are calming and airy, but can appear cold. Limit their use in a dark room. Warm colours such as red, yellow, orange and pink create warmth in rooms with limited amount of light.

Types of light

Light Fittings
There are various different types of light each of which provides a different effect. White halogen light is the closest to daylight, it provides a crisp light and is recommended for overall illumination. Tungsten light gives off a warm colour and is good for highlighting whilst fluorescent light is very cool and harsh but can be used behind a pelmet board to create a dramatic effect.

Light fittings are available in many styles and can be used for different effects, here are some of the options:

• Wall lights usually have an enclosed shade making them suitable for bathrooms, they are available in many styles and colours from traditional to modern and provide a soft all round glow.
• Recessed lights can be positioned in the wall, ceiling or floor (toughened glass versions are available for floor fixing). If recessed into the ceiling they can provide a fixed beam of light or have a movable 'eyeball' which can be directed to highlight specific areas
• Spot lights can create pools of concentrated light and are available in either tungsten or halogen. However halogen lights often need a transformer, which may need to be fitted by an electrician
• Down lighters can be used to achieve a variety of effects. Low voltage halogen fittings are neat, functional and unobtrusive and create a narrow, focused beam of light. For a broader wash of light fittings with tungsten bulbs can be used
• Up lighters are very effective for enhancing architectural features. The ceiling reflects the beam of light and disperses it so that glare and shadows are reduced. The shade is often a semi-transparent material such as opaque glass which gives a diffused light

You may want to consider fitting a dimmer switch outside the bathroom, which should be preset to avoid adjustment whilst wet, to give you complete control over the brightness of lighting. This enables you to create a bright all over light or a soft romantic glow at the touch of a button!

Remember to consider ventilation which is essential to allow moisture and steam to be dispersed. Low voltage ceiling lights with built in extractor fans can often be fitted above the shower or bath. This is particularly important in small bathrooms or those without a window.

Safety in the bathroom

The installation of lighting is covered by certain safety rules. Here are some basic general guidelines for domestic bathrooms but consult an electrician for further details:

• The risk of electric shock is greater in the presence of water or moisture
• Always make sure the lighting circuit is switched 'off' before commencing any installation work
• Socket-outlets and, therefore, freestanding or portable light fittings are not permitted in bathrooms
• Light fittings installed within 3 metres of the bath or shower must be at least splashproof. Look for a mark on the fitting denoting IP44 or IP55
• Switches must be of the pull cord type or installed outside the bathroom
• Shaver socket-outlets must contain a safety isolating transformer and be in conformity with BS EN 60742
• All metal pipes and metal parts must be properly connected to earth
• Remember to read the installation instructions provided by the manufacturer of the light fitting

Once the light fitting is installed, remember to always switch the electricty off when changing the bulb and never attempt to change the bulb when you are wet. Water and electricity can be extremely dangerous. Electricians registered by the NICEIC will be aware of all the latest saftey rules. For more information contact the Electrical Contractors Association Ltd, Esca House, 34 Palace Court, London, W2 4JG.