Bathrooms without windows
Ventilation, lighting, and layout
The right ventilation for a bathroom without windows
The most pressing problem in a bathroom without windows is proper ventilation. There are a number of solutions for this, which also depend on the existing structural conditions. Below are some options for ensuring proper ventilation and avoiding mold in a bathroom without windows:
Ventilation system
In fact, mechanical ventilation is a requirement for a bathroom without windows according to the building code. Windowless bathrooms without a ventilation system are usually only found in older buildings that haven't been renovated in a long time. Especially in more modern systems, humidity and temperature can often be controlled at the same time, and optimal levels can be achieved either automatically or manually. In this case, the system can handle all the ventilation issues for you autonomously.
Ventilation to neighboring rooms
If your bathroom doesn't have a ventilation system, or the system isn't strong enough, you'll have to ensure adequate air flow manually. All you have to do is open the windows and doors in the rooms adjacent to the bathroom. Of course, the bathroom door itself also has to be open. It only takes about 10 minutes to ensure adequate ventilation this way. However, it's important to make sure that the air is actually moving. A portable fan, for example, can help with this. In addition to ventilating the room, you should always leave the bathroom door ajar, if possible, or install ventilation slots in the door.
Keep humidity levels low
Low humidity alone isn't a substitute for proper ventilation, but it's always a good idea in bathrooms without any windows. It's also a good way to prevent mold. To achieve this, electrical or chemical dehumidifiers, for example, can be used in a bathroom without windows. Keeping the room relatively warm also helps. The shower walls should also be wiped down with a cloth or a squeegee after you take a shower, and it's a good idea to hang towels and other damp items on a towel warmer to dry.
Our tip: Even in a bathroom with windows, mold can start to form from time to time. We have a magazine article that explains how to remove bathroom mold.
Proper lighting for a bathroom without windows
The lack of natural light can seem like a daunting design challenge at first, but you can work around this issue in just about any bathroom without windows. There are basically two options to choose between:
Structural changes
Even a windowless bathroom doesn't necessarily have to do without any natural light at all. Skylights can be retrofitted, depending on where the bathroom is located. Light tubes (also called solar pipes or sun tunnels) are also an increasingly popular solution and can be installed in most homes – but they can also involve more labor and higher costs.
Artificial lighting
Like every other bathroom, bathrooms without windows should also have artificial lighting installed. Without natural light, the lighting scheme needs to be adjusted slightly. In general, it is best to plan for at least one bright overhead light and at least two other light sources positioned at different points in the room. That's just the minimum, of course – you can always add more.
The area around the sink, in particular, should be well lit, ideally with a dimmer switch. Warmer, more relaxed lighting is a good idea for the area around the bathtub. Daylight lamps that simulate sunrises and sunsets are available, making them an excellent choice for this area. Candles help to create an especially cozy atmosphere. Lighting decisions should be based on your personal preferences and the design style you go with in your windowless bathroom.
What can be placed in the bathroom under the sloping roof?
Despite the fact that height and angle are dependent on planning, there is basically nothing to prevent you from placing every possible piece of bathroom furniture under a sloping roof.
Mirrors
Mirrors can also help make your windowless bathroom seem brighter. If possible, go with larger mirrors. The larger the mirrors, the larger the room will appear overall.
Bathroom decor
You can also create homey accents by adding decorative items to your design. Depending on your style, there are a lot of different ways to incorporate decorative items into your windowless bathroom – find those special items that you really like.
Warm colors
Warm colors are especially helpful in compensating for the lack of natural light and making your bathroom without windows seem brighter. You don't have to use loud colors, but soft vanilla or beige tones combine warmth and comfort, making them a perfect choice.
Our tip: You can find even more ideas for your color scheme in our article on incorporating color in the bathroom.
Natural elements
Since it's easy for a bathroom without any windows to appear lifeless, bringing in natural materials is always a good idea. Windowless bathrooms have the ideal conditions for being transformed into a cozy natural bathroom – make it a true retreat, full of relaxation!
Our tip: You don't have to do without plants completely despite the lack of natural light. Learn more about what types of plants in bathrooms work well without windows.
Mural wallpaper
If your bathroom doesn't have a real view, you can create an artificial one. Mural wallpapers can really enhance your bathroom without windows and make it more interesting. Alternatively, you can add pictures or consider painting an unusual mural yourself.
Our tip: Our magazine explains everything you need to know about wallpaper in the bathroom.
