Layer the Lighting in Your Zen Bathroom

Architect Michael Morris of Morris Sato Studio in New York City prefers to use as little direct light as possible. "In traditional Japanese architecture," he says, "the moon's reflection was often viewed in a still pond from a palace balcony or platform." While it's not likely that you'll have a reflecting pool outside your bathroom, you can still create serenity with reflected light.

One way to do this is to up-light cabinets and create a halo on the ceiling; you can also add sconces to reflect light on walls. If you eschew direct light but still need task lighting, designer Jodi Fitzpatrick of Renata Resources in Fresno, Calif., suggests installing a lighted retractable makeup mirror in a cabinet or medicine cabinet. To add drama, highlight a solitary piece of art or a single, perfect vase with a spotlight.

Not sure what fixtures to choose? There are a host of Zen-inspired lighting fixtures on the market. Designer Merrie Fredericks of Design Concepts Plus in Newtown Square, Penn., says that lighting from the Craftsman period also works well with Zen design.