A chandelier in a bathroom stopped being extravagant the moment freestanding baths moved into the middle of the room. Above one, a decorative fitting looks entirely natural — provided it is rated for the position.
Zones decide what you can hang
ZoneWhereRequirement
1Directly above the bath, up to 225 cmHigh IP, usually 12 V supply
2Within 60 cm of the bathIP44
3The rest of the roomIP20 permitted
A freestanding bath in the middle of a large bathroom usually lets you hang the fitting outside zone 1 — you simply offset it so it is not directly over the rim.
Materials that survive steam
Glass and properly coated metal cope best. Unlacquered brass and copper patinate faster in a humid room, and fabric elements have no business in a bathroom at all. Check the protection class and make sure the earth connection is made.
Common questions
Can you put a chandelier in a bathroom?
Yes, if its IP rating suits the zone it hangs in and it is correctly earthed.
What IP rating over a freestanding bath?
IP44 outside the immediate zone, higher directly above the rim. Keep at least 225 cm of clearance.
Is a chandelier enough light for a bathroom?
No — the mirror needs its own wall lights. Any overhead fitting leaves shadows under the eyes.
See also wall lights and ceiling lights.