Bringing natural light into your bathroom

August 15, 2023

Natural light is a game-changer in any small bathroom.

Whether renovating an en-suite or a miniature spa, gearing your design strategies towards maximising natural light will make your room feel larger and uplifting. While, at first, it may seem impossible, there are plenty of ways to work around a small space.

Beyond their practical purpose, bathrooms are one of the most important rooms in any household. It’s where you relax, unwind and get ready for the day ahead. A bathroom that’s cramped and gloomy is no place for design-savvy homeowners.

So, how do you bring more natural light into your bathroom?

1. Invest in a rooflight

If your bathroom is on an upper floor or lacks exterior wall space for windows, rooflights are the perfect solution.

Ideal for installing on flat roofs, rooflights (commonly known as ‘skylights’) are the most convenient way to invite sunlight into your bathroom. They’re a portal to the outside world, offering you beautiful views of nature without compromising privacy.

Not only do they give you unlimited access to natural light, but rooflights can cut costs off your monthly energy bills. By reducing your dependence on artificial light, you can save money on electricity.

2. Replace old windows

If your bathroom has old, small, or outdated windows, it’s time to upgrade.

You might notice that your current bathroom windows have a fogginess that makes them appear dirty: this condensation will make it harder for light to penetrate, leaving your bathroom shrouded in darkness.

Consider replacing them with larger windows that have a higher glass-to-frame ratio. Modern, energy-efficient windows offer larger glass surfaces for increased light penetration. Opt for frosted or textured glass for privacy without sacrificing luminosity.

3. Use a glass privacy door

There’s nothing more elegant than a glass door. Traditional solid doors can block light from passing through and create a closed-off atmosphere.

For a frameless finish, you can equip your bathroom with bespoke glass doors that combine privacy and natural light. Installing a glass privacy door between your bathroom and adjacent rooms creates a sense of continuity and brightness: everything you want in a bathroom.

At Tuffx, we offer countless finishes, such as bronze, green, blue and grey tints, screen-printed to any RAL colour with a choice between a sandblasted or satin finish. With our glass doors, you can remove visual barriers and create a more open space.

4. Add mirrors

Mirrors are fantastic for reflecting and amplifying natural light.

When combined with a rooflight or glass privacy doors, mirrors create an illusion of spaciousness and depth. Think about placing a large mirror opposite a window or a rooflight to bounce the natural light around your bathroom.

You can get creative, experimenting with different mirror shapes and placements to achieve the effect that best benefits your bathroom.

5. Paint with white

The way natural light interacts with space also depends on colour.

When redecorating your bathroom, choose light and neutral colours (white is our personal recommendation!) Painting your bathroom walls and ceilings in white hues can significantly enhance their brightness.

White surfaces reflect light and make rooms appear more radiant. Complement your new white palette with soft pastel accents and neutral, earthy colours to create a refreshing atmosphere.

6. Opt for chrome

Anything that reflects light is a bathroom bonus, which is why installing chrome fixtures is so clever.

Chrome has a reflective quality that bounces light around the space. Opting for chrome faucets, towel bars, and other accessories is a minimally invasive and cost-effective way to increase your bathroom’s brightness.

Choose TuffX for bathroom rooflights!

Start your bathroom renovation journey with TuffX rooflights.

Together, we can transform your dull, uninspiring bathroom into a haven of relaxation. By investing in skylights and replacing old windows and wooden doors, you can create an atmosphere that’s both calming and functional.

FAQs

1. Are frosted glass doors completely opaque?

Frosted glass doors offer partial opacity, allowing diffused light to pass through while maintaining privacy.

2. How can I maintain privacy with larger windows?

Consider installing window treatments like blinds or curtains that can be adjusted to control the level of privacy without blocking out light.

3. Can I install a rooflight in a bathroom with a flat ceiling?

Yes, rooflights can be designed to fit various roof types, including flat ceilings, to bring natural light into your bathroom.

4. Is there an alternative to chrome finishes for fixtures?

Yes, polished nickel and stainless steel are other reflective options that enhance the natural light in your bathroom.