20 Key Elements Of Universal Design For Bathrooms:

1. wide doorways (at least 32″)
2. curbless showers or curbless walk-in showers
3. extra space move around with a wheelchair or other mobility device
4. appropriate low-level fixtures (toilets, sinks, etc.)
5. grab bars in strategic locations
6. lever handles on all doors
7. proper lighting levels and color contrast for visibility
8. slip-resistant flooring
9. safety controls to regulate water temperature
10. adequate ventilation and air circulation are essential for providing a comfortable experience
11. accessible storage
12. hand-held shower head
13. automatic flush mechanisms are also important to make it easier for people with disabilities and limited dexterity to navigate the bathroom.
14. comfort height toilets for family members
15. pocket door
16. eliminating trip hazards
17. wheelchair access
18. accessible light switches
19. master bedroom and full bathroom on the main level of your home
20. toilet paper grab bar

The Shower

The first step is to make it a walk-in shower. If you don’t want to go barrier-free just yet, go with doors that can be easily removed. Curbless showers are always recommended as they look great and keep full functionality throughout the aging years. Having a curb on your shower will make accessing it difficult if you or a family member has balance issues, shuffle their feet or use a wheelchair. Remember to install controls and the hand-held shower head on the back wall with a diverter. Designing the shower in this manner will allow comfortable operation if a seat is installed later. It’s better to have a flexible shower area, whether it’s for you to age in place or for aging parents or grandparents to have an easier time showering when they visit.

The Toilet

If you do nothing else to your bathroom, at least include a comfort height toilet. No matter your ability level, age, or height, a comfort height toilet is welcomed by all. The height of these toilets is three inches taller than traditional toilets. Eighteen-inch toilets sit at a more convenient height—most important for those with mobility challenges. Bad knees from the golden days of playing sports will thank you as you won’t need to stoop down as low compared to other toilets. If your toilet doesn’t need replacing, risers are available to bring lower-sitting toilets up higher. Wall-hung toilets are gaining speed with designers. Not only is their style clean and futuristic, but they are practical. The tank sits in the wall, allowing the user to place the seat at the height most comfortable for them. We also recommend toilet bidets. They’re luxurious and help keep the user staying fresh and clean.

The Vanity

Trending these days are floating vanities. Cabinets underneath the sinks are visions of the past. Clean, spacious designs are in style. The space created by a floating vanity is important to accessibility. It looks modern and allows people who use wheelchairs access to the sink as they easily roll under. If you’re not keen on the look, you can always hide knee space within the cabinetry or include a shroud around the plumbing under the sink. Another feature to keep in mind is a backlit mirror. Backlit mirrors offer added illumination around the sink area.

Universal Design Considerations for Bathroom Remodeling

• Tub and shower water controls closer to the entry-point – allowing for easier reach outside the tub/shower area
• Install lever handle faucets
• Install shelf in tub/shower area for soap, shampoo and towels
• Install shower / tub seat
• Control water pressure and install anti-scald controls
• Add light in shower stall

• Install contrasting counter top edge color
• Ensure abundant counter space
• Remove sharp edges
• Easily accessible medicine cabinet
• Tilting mirrors

Our Living In Place Bathroom Design and Remodeling Services

Bernier Remodeling offers a range of services tailored to help you achieve a bathroom with which you can continue to live comfortably

• Consultation and Assessment – Our experts will assess your current bathroom layout and recommend modifications for ADA compliance
• Custom Design – Working closely together, we’ll create a bathroom design that seamlessly integrates ADA-compliant features while maintaining a stylish and functional space
• Expert Remodeling – Our skilled craftsmen handle all aspects of construction, ensuring that every detail meets ADA requirements
• Project Management – Bernier oversees the project from start to finish, ensuring it stays on schedule and within budget