Bathrooms
A. Behind the Wall
Make it a habit to install blocking behind the walls, but, if the room is large enough, consider reinforcing every wall with an entire layer of plywood first. Future grab bars or seating can then be installed at a custom height.
B. Spacious Seating
With a number of options for toilet height, find one that fits the specific needs of your client and design with enough space around the toilet for the possibility of a caregiver one day needing to transfer a person from a wheelchair.
C. Slip Not
The CDC estimates that 21.8 million people over the age of 15 sustain non-fatal injuries from bathroom falls. High friction–coefficient tiles are less slippery. Small tiles work better than large ones. Maintain comfortable temperatures with underfloor heating.
D. Totally Drained
Use a standard drain (pictured) or a trench drain — a channel-shaped drain flush with the floor and covered by a grate. Follow plumbing codes for the high point above a drain: If ADA compliance is needed, those requirements supercede local codes.
E. Walk Right In
Although the bathroom shown here belongs to a wheelchair user, a barrier-free shower with grab bars means extra safety for all users. Handheld sprayers offer easy options for washing children or pets or cleaning the shower itself.
A. Design for All
Defy the perception that accessible design is institutional. Offer beautiful design that incorporates wider doorways, a no-threshold floor, towel warmers, and a barrier-free shower—elements that work for all.
B. Lend an Arm
Install grab bars where they’re needed. This
fold-down bar’s support is hidden behind a removable tile held on by a magnet. (A second bar is to the right of the toilet.) Remove the tile and set the bar in place; no tools necessary.
C. Open Face
A vanity with a removable face allows you to prepare for the possibility of a wheelchair user. Finish the floor beneath and install the J-trap flat against the back wall for knee room. Insulate plumbing to prevent burns.
D. At Your Fingertips
Lights, audio, video, security systems, blinds, hot tubs, appliances — anything electric can be controlled by touch panels, tablet computers, or smartphones. Install
keypads in different rooms or all in one spot.
E. Take a Seat
Whether old or young, it’s handy to have a place to remove your shoes or rest. Suggest a fold-down seat in a garage, mudroom, or bathroom. Be sure to first install blocking or a sheet of plywood behind the wall.