Vanity Lighting...That Doesn't Make You Run

I'm currently looking to update the lights in my master bathroom.  They aren't horrible.  In fact, they are far cry from the standard builder grade light bar.  Y'all know what I'm talking about... This guy.  

builder light bar

We've all seen him and hopefully have all ran from him and to the nearest lighting store for a replacement.  Too harsh?  Perhaps.  But honestly, why is it so hard to find a great looking over-the-sink light fixture?  Personally, I'm a sconce on each side of the mirror gal but that doesn't always easily work if your bathroom isn't already wired for it and you don't feel like forking out some money for an electrician.  So what if you have an existing light box over the mirror?  How can you make that work in a design-worthy way?  Believe it or not, there are other alternatives to the mass-produced mediocrity out there.  Here's a few examples that I love.  

The swing arm

The swing arm

Gooseneck sconce with shade

Gooseneck sconce with shade

Picture light in a powder room.

Picture light in a powder room.

Picture lights in a full bath

Picture lights in a full bath

Swing arms again...

Swing arms again...

And another gooseneck for a powder room.

And another gooseneck for a powder room.

Isn't it so refreshing to see something a little different?  I think so.  One thing you must consider when thinking about these single bulb options is the other lighting in the room.  If you're updating a powder room, you are good to go (it's not usually a space where bright light is needed), but if it's in a main bath, make sure you have ample amount of windows or can use high wattage in each fixture.  

Okay, now let's all go eliminate those ugly builder grade lights, shall we? :)

For image sources please click here.