Small bathrooms: Lighting and mirrors

Small bathrooms can be a challenge to renovate, but there are tricks of the trade which create a feeling of space, to maximise what you have. The creative use of lights and mirrors can markedly enhance the appearance and feel of a small bathroom. Creating an ambience that is inviting yet still combines a sense of space with comfort is the aim of many renovators.

Lights and mirrors in the bathroom

There is an enormous range of bathroom mirrors available and one of the main functions of any mirror is to enhance available, natural light and to create a sense of greater space. The shape, size and type of mirror you choose and the type and colour of lighting can make all the difference.

• There is almost any shape you can imagine in mirrors, however rectangular and oval are most popular and most common. Rounded shapes can be excellent for creating space, however a wide mirror always creates more feeling of space than a narrow one
• A mirror frame can be used to help match the mirror with your decor and integrate it properly. Decorative mirrors and frames that fit with your decor theme can also be used. Thinner, less fussy frames tend to create more of a feeling of space than thick or very decorative ones
• The size of mirror you choose will depend on the size of your bathroom cabinet. Obviously it can not exceed the size of the cabinet if you are going to mount it there. Another option is to mount it above the cabinet, and this is when a wider or different shaped mirror can be used
• Your choices for lighting will be affected by which mirrors you use. In a smaller bathroom it is often best to have side lights on the cabinet, whilst in a bigger one you may opt for ceiling lights, and in fact in a bigger room this may be essential. Concealed, natural looking lighting can enhance a small bathroom most effectively.
• Avoid glaring strip fluorescent lighting as this will highlight the corners of your small room, and create a cramped feeling
• Utilise natural lighting to its fullest. Bigger, open looking uncluttered windows and clear glass shower cubicles encourage a feeling of spaciousness
• It may be worth hiring a design expert for an hour to give you some expert advice on your bathroom's particular challenges.

The small bathroom

Small bathrooms can be cosy and have a feeling of spaciousness. Remember that your choice of mirrors and lights will depend on what works together, and will affect the overall tone of your bathroom, down to what fittings work best. The right selection can change the feel from modern to something more traditional, and can help create space and warmth where there was clutter.