The bathroom window balance: Bright but private

Getting that balance between light and privacy in bathrooms can be vexing. The window needs to admit plenty of light to avoid a dank, poky feel to the bathroom and to discourage mould growth, but the obvious need for privacy while bathing makes the easy solution of a big airy window impossible. There are several ways in which you can modify the window you have or design the perfect window in your new home to beautifully perform both of these functions.

Light and privacy from bathroom windows

How do you create that perfect balance between light and privacy in the bathroom? Some of these suggestions suit the building of a new home, some are great for existing windows.

• If you are building a new home, consider a sky light or light tube in your bathroom roof. There are no privacy issues, and both create a clear, diffuse light that's perfect for bathrooms
• Very high, wide shallow windows are a great solution for light and privacy. If your bathroom faces south, this is a particularly good way to increase light. It also has the advantage of making your bathroom look more spacious. Or try high round windows!
• Paint the bathroom in very light colours or white to maximize the use of the light you have
• For an existing window, use sheer light admitting curtains to increase privacy while still allowing light through
• Foliage plants on the outside of the house are an excellent solution to privacy problems without blocking the light. Choose a plant that is fast growing, and has light but reasonably dense foliage. Australian natives can be ideal, and plants don't need to be right against the window to work
• Wooden blinds allow privacy while still admitting light, unlike most curtains, and can enhance the look of your bathroom
• If you are of an artistic bent of mind, try painting your windows with frosted paint spray for maximum light with minimum transparency
• Old fashioned frosted glass could be a solution. Or try one of the many different types of glass available now that admit light while being difficult to see through
• Paint your window sill a light colour to reflect light into the bathroom
• Slant the sides of the window openings in new houses inwards, with the outer opening larger than the inner one, to reflect maximum light into the bathroom

Try one or several of these solutions to create a light, bright bathroom that retains your privacy.

Balancing your bathroom windows for light and privacy

With some creative thinking and the application of some of these solutions it is possible to solve the dilemma of the balance between privacy and brightness in your bathroom window. Only those who live in remote locations with no neighbors nearby have the luxury of not having to juggle these two elements. Everyone else now has some solutions!