Home Today, Home Tomorrow Universal Design Toolkit For Home Owners For Architects and Builders

Bathroom

Bathroom Layout

A big master bath is best for ample maneuverability including family members who use mobility equipment. If possible, a second entrance accessible to all family members and guests increases the flexibility of the bathroom. One easy renovation is to convert to an out-swing door to eliminate accessibility issues in and out of the bathroom. Another more ambitious idea is to position two sinks at different heights to accommodate all family members: kids, adults and especially aging adults. The lower sink can also accommodate a seated user. A large curbless shower works for everyone in the house including pets and plants. Putting wood blocking between the walls in showers and around toilets, before installing drywall and tile, adds the foundation for support bars.

Cost
$$$$
Difficulty
High

If your current bathroom footprint is small, prepare to make modifications to adjacent rooms as well to gain the extra square footage. Multiple floor drains are best, and the installation in combination with a gently-sloped floor is expensive and intensive.

How-to tip

There are many advanced floor systems that make the installation of an attractive, leak-proof, curbless shower floor much easier.

Principles Equitable Use The design is useful and marketable to people with diverse abilities. Flexibility in Use The design accommodates a wide range of individual preferences and abilities. Low Physical Effort The design can be used efficiently and comfortably and with a minimum of fatigue. Size and Space for Approach and Use Appropriate size and space is provided for approach, reach, manipulation, and use regardless of user’s body size, posture, or mobility. Tolerance for Error The design minimizes hazards and the adverse consequences of accidental or unintended actions.

Analytics Innovation Designs that go beyond the ordinary and customary can have wonderful outcomes: adding natural light, bringing the outside in, enhancing the spaciousness of smaller spaces, improving interior connections all. Replicability Totally unique solutions, that can’t be applied on other lots or home styles aren’t terribly useful. Features with and “R” designation are particularly applicable to other home renovation situations in a variety of settings.

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