The Lighting Joanna Gaines Uses To Make A Small Fixer Upper Bathroom Feel Bigger

Bad lighting — we all hate it. It's unflattering, yet it's an all-too-common problem in small bathrooms. You would think a central light is enough for this itty-bitty room, but no. Quite the opposite: It's a major lighting mistake that's making your space feel smaller and claustrophobic (hello, harsh shadows). Just ask Joanna Gaines, who has tackled her fair share of small, dingy bathrooms on her "Fixer Upper" show. While the designer still uses ceiling lights in these bathrooms, you can bet she'll flood the space with as much extra light as possible. As she said in a video for HGTV, "What does light do? Light makes things feel bigger."

Gaines' lighting combo is simple: Jazz up the bathroom ceiling with an eye-catching overhead piece and never skip task lighting in the vanity area. Yep, that's all. But let us tell you what a world of difference two light sources can make compared to a lone, ugly fixture. Here's a deeper dive into how Gaines visually expands a tiny bath with lighting, and how you can do the same without gutting your entire bathroom.

Looking back at past "Fixer Upper" episodes, Joanna Gaines has used everything from a crystal drum shade to an antique chandelier as the main light in her small bathroom designs. These might be unusual choices for a bathroom (especially, a cramped one), but she definitely knows what she's doing. For starters, a dramatic light hanging from the ceiling instantly draws the eye upward, putting the focus on the room's height rather than its limited square footage. This "big" fixture can also distribute plenty of light throughout the space, which again, is key to creating an open feel.

Wondering if you should install a chandelier in your bathroom? Be mindful of how tall your ceiling is, make sure the light is damp-rated, and have fun with the choices. You could introduce a classic candelabra, add sparkle with dangling crystals, or steal the show with a sculptural piece. And if overly ornate isn't your style, take the minimalist route with clear pendant lights. These can also trick the eye into thinking the bathroom is larger than it is since they don't take up visual space.

Finally, you'll want to supplement the chandelier with wall sconces. Go ahead and rewire your bathroom to add extra lighting above (or beside) your mirror if you can. But if that's not an option, look no further than plug-in and battery vanity lights. Let's just say they're a game-changer for illuminating dark areas without needing an electrician. Finish it off with dimmable bulbs to create a relaxing ambiance when needed.