Layer the Lighting in Your Zen Bathroom

If you need a respite from your busy life, consider transforming your bathroom into a personal refuge. Follow this simple seven-step path to create an authentic, Zen-inspired design.

Light affects our moods, making us cheerful or contemplative; the lack of sunlight can even make us depressed. As with all aspects of a Zen bathroom your goal is to achieve graceful balance, in this case between types of lighting and light and shadow.

Base your lighting plan on natural light from a window or even from a room adjacent to the bath. Use window treatments that offer privacy and create diffused light, such as stained glass, window films and rice paper shades.

Choosing a variety of interior lighting sources creates a layered lighting scheme, which lets you achieve balance and flexibility. Hang canister or pendant lights over the sink so you have a place shave or put on your makeup. Placing sconces on either side of the mirror will light your entire face without shadows so you can do those delicate tasks with ease. Install indirect lights to quiet the room when you want to soak in the tub. Dimmers will help you achieve the right balance between natural and electrical light.