Bathroom Universal Design Ideas

1)  Maintain 3’ a minimum clearance in front of the toilet for proper maneuverability.

2)  Provide extra blocking in the walls where future grab bars or handrails may be installed.  Blocking may include ¾” plywood on the entire wall surface before applying your sheet rock or installing 2x blocking between studs.  Grab bars now come in a variety of colors and finishes to match your décor.

3)  Install a roll in shower which has no curb or threshold. This usually entails some forethought.  You can drop the floor joist just in the area of the shower to allow the top of the shower pan (which will slope to a drain) to be flush with your bathroom floor.  New Tub/Shower fixtures can later convert to a curb-less shower if installed correctly in the begging.

4)  Adjustable height shower heads allow you to use them standing or sitting down and placement is critical for each user.

5)  There are new soft sided tubs out that allow an easier, softer entry.

 

Miscellaneous tips or ideas:

a)  Provide access to the entries of the house with no steps by adding nice sweeping sidewalks or ramps.  Plan ahead with on a garage addition or new house construction by allowing room for a ramp in the garage.

b)  Create an elevated shelf just outside your door to rest items you may be carrying while you unlock your door and search for your keys.

c)  Install a Laundry Chute – you just don’t see those anymore.

d)  Locate your washer and dryers on pedestals to keep from bending over or for access from a seated position.

e)  If you are doing an addition or building a new home plan ahead for an elevator.  You don’t need to install it now - just allow room for it by stacking closets between floors.

f)  Locate Electrical switches no taller than 48” above the floor and outlets no lower than 18” to allow access from the sitting position.

g)  Crank operated windows are the easiest to open for all ages.

h)  Adjustable height closet shelves and rods and power operated carrousels bring hanging clothes closer to you.

i)  To help aid with vision change colors at countertops of different heights and use contrasting materials and colors between stair treads and risers.

Schloegel Design Remodel is CAPS certified. CAPS stands for Certified Aging in Place Specialist.  It requires sensitivity to, and knowledge about people of all ages and abilities.  It is the next step from accessible, adaptable, and barrier-free design concepts of the past.