Where Should I Hang Sconces In The Bathroom | The Ultimate Guide
Bathroom design includes many different aspects with lighting playing a crucial role. Two important factors to consider in planning the lighting is both the functionality and ambiance you want to create for the space. When creating a space, I am almost always utilizing a sconce in the bathroom designs. Now let’s break down all the details!
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Why sconces in the bathroom?
Lighting can do wonders for a space. It can make a small bathroom feel more spacious, accentuate design features, and create a welcoming atmosphere. With the right combination of lighting, you can transform your bathroom into a stylish and efficient space. Sconces in the bathroom, in particular, offer both practicality and aesthetic appeal, making them an excellent lighting option for any bathroom design.
Options For Hanging Sconces In The Bathroom
Above the Mirror
Placing your sconce above the mirror is a great option that can work in a lot of different spaces. This is ideal for bathrooms where you have limited spaces for adding lighting. I like to follow the general rule of one sconce per sink (sometimes this can vary). To keep things balanced in your design, it often looks best to have sconces over individual mirrors above each sink. This usually works better than just one larger mirror. You can see this as an example in the photos above. One important aspect is to ensure you have enough spacing with your ceiling height. One drawback may be that this placement will likely create some shadowing.
Either Sides of the Mirror
Placing your sconces on the side of the mirror is often a popular choice for a multitude of reasons. With your sconce in the bathroom placed on either side of the mirror, it creates a really nice balanced look between sconce, the mirror and vanity. Another major reason is that it provides even, flattering light because they are usually hung at or near eye level. See the graphic below for an example! This is a great option if you have lower ceilings and want to avoid spacing being snug above the mirror.
The Sides of the Vanity Area
This option has a lot to do with the layout of your bathroom. This is more often used as ambient lighting or as a design detail. Hanging your sconces in the bathroom on the sides of the vanity area can create a beautiful statement. It is also a great tool to tie in the design elements with the other fixtures in the space. Below you can see our sconces in our powder room are hung this way. Because the vanity spans from wall to wall, hanging the sconces on the walls next to the vanity area were an option.
Other Nooks for Ambient Lighting
As every bathroom setup varies, there are plenty of other spots you could add a sconce even just as decor or for ambient lighting. It could be near the tub or shower, in a little nook or even by some art.
What Height to Hang Sconces in a Bathroom?
This is actually going to depend on a lot of factors such as where you choose to hang it or what your ceiling height is.
- When hanging a sconce above a mirror, you want to space it far enough above the mirror so that the sconce does not block the mirror and that there is ample clearing above the sconce to the ceiling. If its too tight, consider another placement option. If measuring make sure to measure the arm, shade and base of the sconce as it would sit so you get the proper measurement (this is helpful to do when ordering.)
- If hanging it beside a mirror or the sides of the vanity, you want to center it roughly at eye level. There is room for adjustment here depending on the size of the room and height of the ceiling. When placed next to a mirror, keep it somewhere near the center of the mirror height to no higher than the top 1/3 of the mirror.
- Also always keep in mind the direction the sconce turns. As you can see below some sconces hang down and some turn upwards. So make sure to take that spacing into account where it is being wired.
What style sconce to choose?
Finding the perfect sconce to install is such a personal decision! You can go from simple or traditional to something more modern. Or even find one that is more detailed with a vintage vibe. The main things to keep in mind and ask yourself is “does it tie in with the rest of the fixtures and design?” or even “does it complement other pieces in the room?” And of course check the measurements to be sure it’s the proper fit for the space. Below you will find a fun selection of sconces I have used or have been eyeing myself.
Other Lighting Options besides Sconces in the Bathroom?
Unfortunately not all scenarios will be the best fit for a sconce. You may need some additional lighting or something else completely. What are some alternatives then?
- Flush or Semi Flush– these are the best option when you have a lower ceiling height and cannot fit a sconce above your mirror.
- Pendant or Chandelier – these are good as an alternative or addition to sconces if you have high ceiling heights and want to fill some space.
- Recessed Lighting – additional lighting option for darker space and can be balanced with sconce lighting.
- Natural light– just a reminder (especially if you are building,) make sure to take advantage of natural light as much as possible.
There are so many different ways to hang sconces in the bathroom and many different reasons and factors to help you pick which is best! Planning things out in advance is always going to make a project go smoother. If you’re planning out a project, I highly suggest you visit What to do before you start a renovation or How I Use Sherwin Williams Alabaster SW 7008 | My Color Review
