Are you ready to take the plunge and remodel your bathroom? Keep lighting in mind when making plans. Recessed lighting fixtures may be a popular recent home trend, but they can often leave you in a “shadow trap” when illuminating your new room. Focused lighting such as halogen or floodlights creates unwanted shadows in your new bathroom design, making it look spooky rather than inviting. To avoid this lighting pitfall, use a soft-focused or diffused light fixture and mount it at eye level or just above. Positioning light this way will cause it to shine at your face, not down from above. Other types of light, such as decorative or recessed lamps also can combat shadows. If you do choose recessed lighting, place the lights close to the mirror and center them above the faucet. A dimmer switch at the vanity area helps control the lighting, allowing you to adjust for day and nighttime levels. Follow these steps and you’ll be brilliantly pleased with your new bathroom.

From November 2006 CRS Magazine.