It might be difficult to envision a bathroom with 14 light fixtures or electrical outlets that are used for Christmas decorations. Anything is possible though and lighting is among the most important features in a bathroom.
“The industry is always evolving,” says Dan McCord, owner and president of Colorado Concept Lighting. “But in a way, the bathroom stays constant.”
Strategically placed, quality lighting has always been important, he notes. Technology has helped contractors provide better and varied options. In many cases, a variety of lighting is used in one bathroom: Incandescent, fluorescent and LED bulbs might light up the main area while a heating lamp can keep the shower or bath area warm.
McCord has received some interesting requests during his long tenure in the lighting field, including the 14 different fixtures, which featured bookcase lighting, desk lighting and under-the-counter lighting that shined through an onyx surface.
Another client had thought ahead to Christmas and wanted to make sure she had plenty of outlets to accommodate her powder room decorations.
“We’re also seeing more and more people actually having kitchen cabinet guys make bathroom cabinetry,” McCord says, adding that it serves as high-quality furniture used for storage. Then, lights are added to put the focus on family photos, perfume bottles or knick-knacks. “We’ve provided lighting for artwork in bathrooms.”
However, McCord is quick to point out that the most basic needs are sometimes overlooked in the bathroom – eye-level lights to help illuminate the face while looking in the mirror, as well as lights over the sink and countertop. “You need both,” McCord said. “Most clients will take my word for it, but there are a few I have to come back and add one or the other.”
Once the basics are in place, then homeowners can make a statement by adding sconces, canned lights, chandeliers and dimmers all around.
