We believe in the potential of bathrooms: the potential for them to be life-giving spaces that encourage rest and self-care.
We think bathrooms can be beautiful and functional, and we LOVE sharing this passion with our clients.
A question that comes up with many of our clients…
… is how to make bathrooms beautiful, functional and accessible.
Whether you need enhanced accessibility for yourself due to aging or disability, or if you want to provide a fully accessible bathroom for your friends and family, we think the question of accessibility is one of the best ones you can ask.
Many solutions are available, so we have rounded up several of our favourites.
These solutions are practical and aesthetically pleasing.
We have a lot of experience making these happen in our bathroom designs, and we can’t recommend them highly enough.
Let’s get started!
#1 Barrier-Free Shower
Unlike a traditional shower tray, a barrier-free or walk-in shower is completely level with the floor.
This makes it possible for people who use mobility aids to enter the shower without stepping over any edges. This dramatically reduces the risk of injuries and allows wheelchairs to roll right in.
With this type of shower, you can continue your bathroom tiles into your shower. The continuous shower floor creates a greater sense of space and flow.
#2 Expanded Entrance Doors
Using mobility aids can be difficult with standard doorways – wheelchairs and walkers won’t always fit through.
A fully accessible bathroom should have wider than normal entrances. This can be accomplished while adding some flair to your space – consider installing french doors or even an extra-wide barn door.
#3 Shower and Toilet Grab Bars
You’ve likely seen these bars in accessible public bathrooms – they are often installed next to the toilet.
In your bathroom, they can be installed next to the toilet, in the shower, or anywhere a little extra assistance is required. This dramatically increases safety, especially when navigating slippery floors.
You can install grab bars that match other metal finishes in your bathroom for a cohesive look – there are many options to choose from!
#4 Benches in the Shower
Of all our suggestions, this is indeed our favourite. You really can’t go wrong with installing a bench in your shower!
Everyone can enjoy these, but they are essential for people with mobility needs.
Shower benches can be included in the design of your shower wall and continue with your tile work.
They can also be installed separately as a statement piece – consider a beautiful piece of marble.
Or, for a more cost-effective option, you can include a shower bench made of water-resistant wood.
#5 Automatic Lighting
Light switches can be challenging to use, especially in the dark.
Rather than move the height of the lighting, you can take it one step further and install automatic lighting in the bathroom.
Motion sensor lights will turn on when you enter the room and off when you exit. A well-lit space is a safe and accessible space.
More and more of our clients are starting to realize accessibility’s importance when designing their bathroom.
And accessible bathrooms can also be beautiful – the best of both worlds.