This year marks 33 years since the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act, which aims to prevent discrimination of people with disabilities. If you or a loved one have a disability, you can remodel your home for better access without sacrificing any of its beauty.
Your bathrooms are a wonderful place to start. While every homeowner is different, our team uses the ADA website as a guide for bathroom accommodations that will work for homeowners with a variety of disabilities and access needs.
Here are our design ideas for accessible bathrooms:
Curbless Showers: One of the biggest advantages of curbless showers is their improved
accessibility. With no step or curb to navigate, getting in and out of the shower becomes much easier for individuals with mobility issues or using mobility aids, such as wheelchairs or walkers. This simple modification can make a significant difference in daily life and promote
independence.
Shower Seating and Adjustable Fixtures: Adding a shower seat or bench can greatly improve
comfort and accessibility, allowing individuals to shower comfortably while seated. Adjustable fixtures, such as handheld shower heads and adjustable-height shower controls, make it easier for people of different heights or abilities to use the shower with ease.
Grab Bars: Installing grab bars and handrails within the shower area is crucial for providing
stability and support. These fixtures make it easier to maneuver in the shower, reducing the risk of accidents. Opt for sturdy grab bars that are specifically designed for wet environments.
Sinks: Along with clearance beneath the sink to allow for a wheelchair to roll underneath, your faucets can be infrared/motion-detecting (to make it easier for someone with limited dexterity to turn the sink on and off without turning knobs). If you do decide on turn faucets, they can be fitted on the side of the sink for easier reach.
Mirror: Do not forget to choose and position a mirror that is easy for a seated person to see
themselves in. For the best results, the top of the mirror should be tipped out.
Toilet: We recommend placing the toilet between 2 grab bars that are 36 inches apart, If a lever flush doesn’t work for you, you can use a push-button or automatic flush. A toilet-bidet
combination may be a great solution for people with limited dexterity and/or upper mobility.
Here at THS our skilled team can help design and install beautiful bathroom features and fixtures that are more user-friendly. While home bathrooms are not required to be ADA-compliant, an accessible bathroom can be used by anyone living in or visiting your home. We will help you find a design that ensures safety, adds to your resale value, and complements your existing decor.
ADA-Compliant Bathroom Examples: