Lighting, Light Fixtures, Ceiling and Exhaust Fans - New Vanity Sconces

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dneves
01-11-07, 04:33 PM
I'm installing a new 84" double-sink vanity. For lighting, I'm installing one can over each sink and another in the middle (evenly spaced) between the two sinks. I also plan 4 small sconces, 2 on each side of each sink. Here's my question: How high should I place the sconces, and how far apart?


chandler
01-11-07, 06:50 PM
Placement of the sconces is a personal preference, but at a height to where they won't cast a glare is preferred. With all the overhead lighting, I personally think adding the sconces, unless they are a low wattage, will be too much for a bathroom vanity situation.

Hooty
01-12-07, 07:44 AM
When I include sconces in a design I typically specify that they be installed no higher than 6'-0" to ensure that an individual cannot directly look into the top of bottom if the lamp is viewable. Separation distance is your preference dependant on your bathroom layout.

Becareful with the position of your pot lights too. Make sure they are not directly over you head when you are standing at the sink as your head/body will cast a shadow. Also, look out for glare from the counter and sinks. It would be best to have them a little behind the standing position to solve these glare and shadow problems.

Make sure the sconces are used for lighting the mirror and your face, not the pots. Lighting from above (such as the pots) casts shadows on the face which make it deceiving when women apply make-up, or general cosmetics.


dneves
01-12-07, 01:20 PM
The sconces will be on a dimmable switch, separate from the (also dimmable) pot lights. I hadn't considered shadows from overhead pot lights - I will follow Hooty's suggestion and place the pot lights a little back. I'd never considered the effect on a lady applying her makeup, prob'ly since I don't have any experience at that myself ;) .

Thanks for both responses and the valuable insight!