Universal Bathroom Design

Not so long ago, universal design was associated with physical disabilities, but today it means a home design philosophy that is user-friendly, regardless of a person’s age or limitations. Savvy homeowners are remodeling their homes, especially the bathrooms, with an eye to the future lifestyles and personal comfort.

The Majestic Bath helps homeowners achieve aesthetic, stylish universal designed bathrooms.

“Many people in Charlotte are deciding to live in their homes longer as they age, but they do not want to have their homes look like an institution,” said Victoria Routolo. “Fortunately, designers have transformed the fixtures initially seen in sterile-appearing institutions, and they’re incorporating the more stylish versions into residential bathroom designs.”

The Majestic Bath offers these tips and design ideas to support universal design:

Allow for more room under sinks
A large open space under the sink allows for the positioning of a wheel chair. Someone in a wheelchair can roll right up to it.

Elevate the toilet
Many toilets are a standard 14" high. Consider replacing your existing toilet with a Universal Design Model that sits 17" off the floor. The few extra inches will make it easier to get up and down and put less strain on your legs and joints.

Add a washlet to your toilet
With a push of a button, the Toto Washlet delivers warm water to clean users off after they finish using the toilet. Imagine the benefit of this to someone having limited movement.

Replace the showerhead with a hand-held model
You’ll gain much more control over the water stream to rinse your hair or your shower walls when you’re done.

Consider a no-threshold shower
Eliminate the shower entry threshold to provide easy wheelchair access.

Recess the tub
Recess the tub under the granite and then extend the granite to provide for a sitting edge for ease of entry into the tub.

Install grab bars at the toilet, at the tub and in the shower
The grab bars shown here are decorative and provide for style and safety.
"A universally designed bath space is not just for the physically challenged or elderly,” said Routolo. “Simple changes can make your bathroom far more enjoyable for many years to come.”

Interested in learning more about universal design? Stop by The Majestic Bath at 621 S. Sharon Amity Road, call them at 704-366-9099 or visit them online at themajesticbath.com.