The bathroom is usually the last place you think about lighting. Normally you will see bathrooms with one single fixture responsible for the entire space, and it is usually located above the mirror. Although this is an easy method, it can cast shadows on your face while grooming. Try to avoid over head light and use vertical fixtures on both sides of the mirror. They should be mounted at eye level to eliminate shadows under the chin and nose.

In larger bathrooms make sure you use a dedicated light above the shower and tub. This will help keep the space evenly lit and give a warmer experience. Make sure to use glass fixtures as plastic ones will yellow with time.

To bring depth to the space, use a spot light. This will give a great focal point; try it on a piece of art or the vanity.

One great side benefit to better lighting is less cleaning. Mold and mildew grow in dark damp places. With the addition of better lighting and if possible natural light you will spend less time cleaning and more time relaxing.

Color has a major impact on your mood and thoughts. Color can also transform a rooms shape and size, so picking the appropriate color is very important. Each color has a great psychological impact on your mood. Depending on your room color you can go from calm tranquil feelings to aggressive rage. The amount of color in a room can also play a roll on how it affects your mood.

Colors fall into three basic categories: Active, Passive, and Neutral. The shades also have different expressions. Light colors are expansive and can make a room seem larger and brighter. Dark colors are warm and sophisticated but shrink a room.

• Red: This color is best used in entry ways for a strong first impression or in spaces like living or dinning rooms. Red has been known to be a color that brings people together and spark stimulation.
• Yellow: When used in kitchens, dinning rooms and bathrooms it can create a warm and inviting feeling. This color should only be used as an accent and not a main color. It has been shown that people lose their temper faster and babies cry more often when surrounded by yellow.
• Blue: Blue is a cooling color that calms and relaxes the mood. This color is perfect for bedrooms and bathrooms; it also performs best when natural light is more available. The lighter the shade the better, light blues give off positive responses where as dark blues evokes sadness.
• Green: This color is the easiest for the eye to see, because of this it is considered to be the most restful color. Green can be implemented in about every room of the house. Light and medium greens show the most response to releaving stress.
• Purple: Due to its dark value purple should only be used as an accent or secondary color. Light purple should be used in bathrooms and bedrooms. Dark purple is a great way to get a section of a room to stand out.
• Orange: Orange is the most energetic color of the bunch. Try to stay away from orange for bedrooms, but do utilize it for exercise or game rooms.
• Neutrals (White, Gray, Brown, and Black): These are very flexible colors. The more neutrals you use the more you liven up a room. The less you use the more you calm a room down. Try to use these colors as an anchor to bring a room together.

You have to ask yourself what kind of atmosphere you would like to create. As a rule of thumb you should not exceed three or four colors  in a room.  If you are remodeling your whole room start with carpet and furniture, this has the most limited color palate. Then base to wall color off your selections.

Decorating magazines and books can be a good source of inspiration. You can also follow our blog and visit our design centers for great information and recommendations.