10 Brushed Nickel Bathroom Lighting Ideas: Creative ways to style brushed nickel lights above mirrors for a bright, modern bathroom.Lena HartwellJan 20, 2026Table of Contents1. Sleek Horizontal Bar Lights2. Double Sconce Symmetry3. Globe Shades with Nickel Base4. Layered Lighting with Dimmer5. Vintage-Inspired Nickel Lanterns6. Minimalist LED Linear Fixtures7. Three-Light Vanity Bars8. Curved Arm Fixtures9. Industrial Pipe Style10. Mixed Metal AccentsFAQFree Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREEA few years ago, I had a client who insisted on installing a giant chandelier above her bathroom mirror. Yes, a full-on crystal ballroom statement piece. It looked fabulous for a week – until we realized the shadows under her eyes in the morning were almost theatrical. That’s when I started diving deep into smarter, more flattering lighting choices – especially the clean, timeless look of brushed nickel above mirrors.1. Sleek Horizontal Bar LightsI love using a slim brushed nickel bar light right above a wide mirror. It spreads light evenly without overwhelming small bathrooms. Once, in a tight apartment bath, we paired it with a room planner layout to make sure the proportions felt perfect. The result? Zero harsh shadows, plenty of style.save pin2. Double Sconce SymmetryTwo brushed nickel sconces flanking the mirror bring both balance and a hotel-like elegance. It’s forgiving if your mirror isn’t centered, too.save pin3. Globe Shades with Nickel BaseFor a softer glow, globe glass shades with brushed nickel frames are a winner. Just be mindful to choose warm LEDs so the look stays inviting.save pin4. Layered Lighting with DimmerNothing beats having options. Install a nickel fixture above the mirror plus a dimmer switch so you can control brightness during makeup or winding down at night.save pin5. Vintage-Inspired Nickel LanternsFor character, a pair of vintage-style lantern sconces adds charm. They work wonders in classic or farmhouse bathrooms.save pin6. Minimalist LED Linear FixturesSuper slim LED brushed nickel lights almost disappear, perfect for ultra-modern spaces. I once used them in a narrow guest bath designed in a free floor plan creator, and it felt twice the size afterwards.save pin7. Three-Light Vanity BarsThese are a go-to for wider mirrors. Three frosted shades on a brushed nickel bar ensure both sides of your face are evenly lit.save pin8. Curved Arm FixturesCurved arm nickel lights bring a sculptural element. Just leave adequate space above the mirror to avoid cramping the style.save pin9. Industrial Pipe StyleIf you like a bit of edge, brushed nickel fixtures with exposed bulbs and pipe details are a bold pick. I once paired this with reclaimed wood framing for contrast using an bathroom design tool to visualize the materials.save pin10. Mixed Metal AccentsNickel doesn't have to be alone – pairing it with black or brass accents creates layers of visual interest. Just keep the finishes intentional so it feels cohesive.save pinFAQQ: Is brushed nickel good for bathrooms?A: Yes – it resists fingerprints, works with many styles, and won’t tarnish easily in humid environments.Q: How high above a bathroom mirror should the light be?A: Typically 75–80 inches from the floor for most people’s eye level. Adjust if you have very tall or short ceilings.Start for FREEPlease check with customer service before testing new feature.Free Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREE