As our population ages, more and more homeowners are considering renovations that cater to an ageing demographic. A significant aspect of creating a comfortable and accessible living environment is ensuring your bathroom remodel incorporates universal design features. However, creating a bathroom that is functional, safe, and stylish for people of all ages and abilities requires careful consideration and planning. In this article, we’ll delve deeper into universal design features, their significance, and several essential factors to keep in mind for an age-resistant bathroom remodel.
At Reliable Building & Construction in Melbourne, our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to understanding your unique needs and preferences when it comes to bathroom remodelling. We pride ourselves on our ability to design and implement age-resistant solutions tailored to your specific situation. Get in touch with us for a personalised consultation and a free quote. Ensure a bathroom that stands the test of time with an age-resistant remodel by Reliable Building & Construction.
Wider Doorways and Clear Floor Space
One fundamental aspect of universal design is promoting easy movement and access within the bathroom. Here are some key considerations for creating a spacious and accessible area:
1. Wider doorways: Increase doorway widths to at least 32 inches, allowing wheelchair users or those with assistive equipment to enter and exit the bathroom comfortably.
2. Clear floor space: Ensure sufficient space in front of the sink, toilet, and shower for unhindered movement and wheelchair manoeuvres.
3. Barrier-free showers: Install curbless or roll-in showers for smooth entry and exit. You can improve the safety further by adding non-slip flooring, a handheld showerhead, and a fold-down shower seat.
4. Floating or wall-mounted sink: Choose a sink design with clearance beneath for comfortable use by wheelchair users without sacrificing aesthetics.
Safety and Comfort with Improved Fixtures
Designing a bathroom that caters to individuals with varying needs necessitates the selection of fixtures that enhance safety and comfort. Consider the following when choosing bathroom fixtures and fittings:
1. Grab bars: Install strategically placed grab bars to provide support and stability near the toilet, shower, and bathtub. Opt for sturdy, stylish designs that complement your bathroom décor.
2. Lever-style or touchless faucets: Faucets with lever handles or touchless technology are easier to use for individuals with dexterity issues.
3. Adjustable-height showerheads: Install a showerhead with an adjustable height or opt for a handheld shower wand for added convenience and flexibility.
4. Raised toilet: Consider a raised or wall-mounted toilet at a comfortable height, along with grab bars for support.
Effective Lighting and Non-Slip Flooring
Proper lighting and safe flooring materials play a crucial role in preventing accidents and improving the overall bathroom experience. Here’s how to make the right choices:
1. Layered lighting: Combine ambient, task, and accent lighting to create a well-lit space that caters to various activities, from grooming to bathing. Install dimmable lights for added control over the level of illumination.
2. Night lights: Incorporate low-level LED night lights to guide users safely through the bathroom during nighttime visits.
3. Anti-slip flooring: Choose flooring materials with good traction, such as anti-slip tiles or textured vinyl flooring, to reduce the risk of slips and falls.
Storage and Other Considerations
An age-resistant bathroom remodel also includes well-thought-out storage solutions and other factors that contribute to creating a functional and adaptable environment:
1. Accessible storage: Design cabinets and shelves for easy reach, with pull-out drawers or open shelves at a comfortable height.
2. Adequate counter space: Ensure sufficient counter space near the sink to allow for easy placement of personal grooming items and to accommodate wheelchair users.
3. Rounded edges: Choose countertops, cabinets, and other fixtures with rounded edges to minimise the risk of injury if someone falls or bumps into them.
4. Contrast in colours: Opt for contrasting colours between fixtures, walls, and floors to provide better visual cues for individuals with poor vision or cognitive impairments.
Conclusion
As our population ages, incorporating universal design features in bathroom remodels becomes increasingly important. At Reliable Building & Construction in Melbourne, we are dedicated to helping you create a safe, accessible, and comfortable bathroom that caters to the evolving needs of all users. Our team of experts will work with you through every stage of the process, from design to execution, to ensure your age-resistant bathroom remodel is a resounding success.
Are you ready to make your bathroom future-proof and welcoming for friends and family of all ages and abilities? Get in touch with us for a personalised consultation and a free quote. Trust Reliable Building & Construction to bring expert craftsmanship and innovative design to your age-resistant bathroom remodel project.
