Universal design is the method of designing a space that is usable to the greatest possible extent, by all people. This means creating a space tailored in style to the current tastes of the homeowner, but tailored in function to whoever may utilize the space in years to come.
Bathroom Vanities, Toilets and Shower Curbs
One of the most important factors of universal design to consider is height. Bathroom vanity height, toilet height, and curb height are all things that need to be taken into consideration. While previously, vanities were only 30” high, and the previous standard toilet height was only 15” from floor to rim, manufacturers are starting to realize that as the population ages; it is easier for people to use fixtures that are taller. Therefore, vanities are now available in 34-1/2” heights and toilets are available 17” from floor to rim. This means less stooping, and less strain on the back.
Shower curbs are used to help keep water from running outside of the shower. Therefore, they don’t need to be more than a few inches in height. They can also be eliminated all together by using a mosaic tile over the entire bathroom floor into the shower. Shower floors need to have tiles 2” or smaller in size to accommodate the pitch of the drain. If there is no break in tile size, there is no need for a curb and no barrier to entry.
Faucet Handles and Hand Showers
Keep faucets, sinks and showers accessible to people of all ages from small children to the elderly by utilizing lever handles wherever the water is turned on and off. Lever handles do not need to be gripped to use, making them easier for small children, or for people with arthritis.
Hand showers can also be extremely helpful. Not only do they help facilitate cleaning of the shower, if mounted on a sliding bar, they can be positioned for people of multiple heights. Since they can be removed from their holders, hand showers are useful for people who may have difficulty with personal hygiene.
Grab Bars
If there is a tub in the bathroom, install a grab bar near one end to help facilitate entering or exiting the tub. The grab bar can double as a towel rail if not in use, and many are available with decorative escutcheons, which match other bathroom accessories. Be sure to install backing into the studs of the wall prior to installing the grab bar, as they can tear out of the wall and be unsafe in case of a fall if not properly braced.
Creating a bathroom with universal design does not have to mean sacrificing style for function. Most styles of faucets can be purchased with lever handles. Nearly all vanities, and many styles of toilets are available in comfort, or universal height, and it is always possible to install both a fixed shower head, and a hand shower, simply using the hand shower for cleaning while keeping it there for future use.
Incorporating elements of universal design into the bathroom will help to ensure that both the current, and possible future owners of the home will be able to live comfortably there for a very long time.
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