In my quest to find the perfect blend of retro and modern for my master bathroom remodel, I have plenty to consider. Which elements of the bathroom redo will be more modern, which will be more retro and most importantly, how will I blend the two styles? While I’m letting all those questions spin around in my brain, I thought I would delve into the world of lighting to start figuring out what is out there and what types of fixtures might go well together in a retro modern bathroom….
In any bathroom remodel, when thinking about lighting, considerations include not only the design of the light, but also what type of fixtures will work best — individually and together — to both illuminate and decorate the space. One alternative is to put in a bunch of well placed, yet minimal can lights, and then add sconces to either side of the mirror to put more light where it is most needed and emphasize the focal point of the room. Another alternative: Put a single central flush-mount fixture to illuminate the space, and add a horizontal light bar type fixture over the mirror for additional light. As I hunted for contenders for my lighting game, I kept in mind how they might work together…
Above: Possini Glass Disk 15″ Wide Round Ceiling Light — from Lamps Plus. This model reminded me of the retro “UFO” style lights from the 1950s and 1960s. At 15 inches in diameter, and mostly glass, it is a nice size light and would likely do a good job of filling my master bathroom with light.
Above: Jonathan Adler Parker 15 1/4″ Wide Nickel Ceiling Light — from Lamps Plus. This light (which Pam posted about earlier) is not only chrome and fun, but injects a bit of pattern to an otherwise boring ceiling. If I decided to use one-inch square mosaic tile, this would be a good way to echo its shape in other areas in the room.
2. Bath light bars for a retro modern bathroom makeover
Above: Nuvo 76/277 with Diamond U Channel Glass, White — Amazon (affiliate link). I’ve always liked retro bath light bars for use over the mirror. I think they cast a flattering light for putting on makeup, doing hair, etc. This one is affordable and comes with a retro-esque pattern.
3. Sconces for a retro modern bathroom
Above: Galaxy — from Rejuvenation. Here’s another cool chrome pin light. I think it would fit well in my house and look awesome flanking my bathroom mirror, but I do have to wonder if pin hole lights are flattering for the complexion.
Above: Havana half-wall sconce from Jonathan Adler.
Of course I still have to make a few more trips to my local ReStore, scour Craigslist, Ebay and Etsy and decide which way some of my other bath elements will lean, but now I have a good idea of what kind of retro and modern styled lighting is available. My retro/modern mixing muscles are beginning to tone up and are getting ready for my master bathroom renovation.
Jenny Pilling says
If anyone is still looking, the yellow sconces are on sale for $115 at homeclick, comparatively a good deal for anyone seeking a pop of color.
http://www.homeclick.com/robert-abbey-yl735-jonathan-adler-capri-1-light-wall-sconce-in-polished-nickel-with-yellow-cased-glass/p-640072.aspx
ebay has lots of options as well.
M McZach says
My 1955 built house is lacking the vertically placed fluorescent lights that go on either side of the medicine cabinet. I can’t find any way to retrofit the existing fluor. outlets for the light’s “pin” access. So will try your designs. (ebay had an exact replica of my med. cabinet, they were selling the cabinet, lights and all.)
Also if you want to see the most excellent representation of 50’s bathroom design check out the movie “the Master”. Also authentic for 50s hair, costuming, set design, you name it. The movie itself, well that’s another story.
Joe Felice says
I think the light fixture(s) should be the last thing you select. Wait and see what goes good and feels right with the other fixtures you will have selected for the remodel.
Rebecca Prichard says
Sadly, the Ikea one isn’t available at least at my store, or online. And the Lowe’s one isn’t either.
FlagirlinTN says
Kate,
IKEA has a bowtie light fixture just like the expensive one you like. I just used it in my bathroom reno.
http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/40192993/
I also have the Calypso lights in my kitchen.
julia @ life on churchill says
We went through a similar process a few months ago (narrowed it down to these: http://www.lifeonchurchill.com/2012/04/flush-mount-lights.html ) and ended up with some from restoration hardware: http://www.lifeonchurchill.com/2012/04/kitchen-lights.html
Enjoy the remodel!
Peggy says
wow…lots of choices Kate….Cant wait to see what you choose. I like the idea of can lights with vintage lighting beside the mirror….I think alot will depend on what type of sink and ;mirror you choose?
Sarah says
You’d be surprised what you can find at your local lowe’s or home depot. Went to buy a lamp shade and saw that they have a wide assortment of light fixtures and there are plenty that ooze that midmod vibe. There were several that looked like the Adler featured here, one with what looked like teak! So awesome but every spot in my house is already taken lol