If you’re in the market for a glamorous touch to your master bath or powder room, a chandelier could be just the thing. But it takes more thought than just a regular ceiling light to make this type of fixture work. For one, building codes require that it be at least eight feet above the tub. Plus, the chandelier needs to be able to withstand moisture without corroding or discoloring.
And then there’s the design aspect of it all: Chandeliers come in a wide range of styles, from over-the-top models dripping with crystals to more subtle designs that lean toward mid-century modern or even art deco. It’s usually best to coordinate your chandelier with other sources of lighting, such as sconces placed around the vanity mirror. But a chandelier can be an elegant way to add a sense of luxury to your bath, and we’ve got the tips and inspiration you need to pull it off.
Chandeliers in Bathrooms
A chandelier is usually considered accent lighting, which means it’s more decorative than functional, at least when it comes to full bathrooms where people are showering or getting ready to face the day. But this style of lighting can be a perfect addition to powder rooms or guest bathrooms, where people are less likely to be using the space for grooming and washing up.
The most important factor in determining whether a chandelier will work in your bathroom is the size of your ceilings. As a general rule, your chandelier should be about two-thirds the width of the room, but this can vary depending on how large or small your fixtures are. It’s also a good idea to choose a chandelier that matches your decor theme, as well as the color scheme of the rest of your home.
While most chandeliers can withstand moisture, you’ll want to avoid those with a lot of decorative materials. These will likely deteriorate over time when exposed to moisture and may even create an unsightly buildup of water spots or drips. Instead, opt for a chandelier with metal or glass construction that’s easy to wipe down and maintain.
Adding a chandelier to your bathroom should generally be done as part of a larger remodeling project, Lewis says. That makes it easier to run the necessary electrical wiring and ensure that the chandelier is rated for damp or wet locations. A professional electrician can help you determine if your bathroom has the overhead space for a new fixture and advise you on how high to place it.
The best bathroom chandelier ideas are ones that are a little bit unexpected and that will add a touch of glamour to this utilitarian space. A chandelier that echoes the sparkle of a crystal-framed mirror is a great example. These chandeliers, such as the Possini Euro Floating Bubble Light from Hudson Valley Lighting, elevate an otherwise simple space and create an eye-catching focal point.