What Kind of Light Can Be Used in an Enclosed Shower?

Natural Light

• For daytime showering, adequate natural light can provide a bright and airy feel, especially in smaller enclosed showers. A glazed window at or above eye-level works well. A skylight provides light from overhead and so provides more focused lighting in this situation. Skylights should be medium or large for best results. If the bathroom has other windows outside the shower enclosure, that also increases the light in the stall, particularly if it has clear or frosted glass instead of a dark curtain.

Recessed and Down Lighting

• Recessed fixtures installed overhead are perhaps the most common type of artificial lighting for an enclosed shower unit. Down lights for showers are water and moisture proof for safety reasons.The fixtures come in a variety of finishes including chrome, brushed chrome or brass, among others. Most of these lights are in a fixed position, but adjustable and tilting models are available. An adequately sized, fixed down light, however, usually lights a shower well. The lamps are typically halogen, giving a soft, warm light, and are covered in glass, since plastic is more likely to yellow.

Ambient and Adjacent Lighting

• If you have more than one ambient light in the bathroom, it may be sufficient lighting for your enclosed shower. Main overhead fixtures in the center of the bathroom may not illuminate the corners of the stall, but if you have an additional fixture over the toilet or vanity, it may suffice. Often, using light from an overhead fixture in the shower and an adjacent light allows you to shower and groom when finished with more than adequate lighting.

Additional Bathroom Lighting

• Aside from the shower stall lighting, additional bathroom lighting can contribute to its overall design and provide you with plenty of task lighting. Chandeliers in particular add an element of depth to a bathroom with high ceilings as well as a touch of elegance or playfulness, depending on the style. Wall sconces work well in small bathrooms and can also add a decorative element. If possible, choose a shower fixture that unifies the bathroom's overall style. For instance, if you have recessed lighting throughout, use it in the shower as well.