With aging-in-place and universal design trends on the rise, remodeling provides the perfect opportunity to design with your future self in mind. Knowing that up to 80% of falls occur in the bathroom, what a better place to start your remodeling journey. Read up on these ideas to spark creativity, and let us know if you have any tips or tricks to add!
1. Include a Shower Bench
A safe place to sit is a must-have for an age-proof shower. The bench can be built-in or freestanding, whichever is best suited for your space. If built-in, you might also consider extending the bench to outside the shower as a drying area. A quick drop in temperature could cause someone to become dizzy or faint, and having a safe spot to sit down could make a world of difference.
2. Install a Handheld Shower Head
Being adjustable to accommodate different heights, handheld shower heads are amazing to have in any shower. If you install next to a built-in bench, you’ll be able to shower when seated. An added bonus to having a handheld shower head is how much easier it is to clean the shower surround.
For households with varying mobility capabilities, a combination fixed and handheld showerhead could be a great and versatile compromise that will give your shower a spa-like feel.
3. Add Grab Bars in the Shower
Gone are the days of the big, ugly grab bars one would associate with public restrooms. Safety now comes in style with a variety of options that can double as in-shower towel racks. Make entering your shower space not only much safer, but easy on the eyes with a decorative grab bar.
4. Increase the Height of Your Vanity and Toilet
Low vanities and toilets can become a nuisance for anyone with mobility issues. The standard vanity height is 31-1/2” not including countertop. Raising the cabinet to 34-1/2” will bring the vanity to standard kitchen counter height, saving your lower back the added strain of being hunched over to wash your hands or brush your teeth. However, if wheelchair accessibility is a prospective need, 34” is the maximum allowable height according to American Disabilities Act guidelines.
Comfort-height toilets are a lifesaver for anyone with limited leg strength (think trying to stand up after leg day at the gym). Installing a new toilet at 17-19” will make a world of difference for a standard toilet that stands at less than 16”.
Added tip: For those that prefer a heels-elevated experience on the throne, a Squatty Potty might be an easy and convenient addition to your new bathroom.
6. Think Twice About Glass
Trending bathroom remodels almost always include glass surrounds for enclosed showers, but that glass requires upkeep (especially if you have hard water). From needing to squeegee regularly to scrubbing away water marks, it can become a household chore that you’ll end up dreading.
Before you go all glass, consider a walk-in shower with tiled walls. Stop in at the Kenyon Noble Design Center to view our in-stock and special-order tiles to fit any style or budget (Bozeman location only). Is the idea of cleaning grout still too much of a hassle for you? Get back to basics with a shower curtain and rod. Curtains can be swapped out and tossed in the washing machine for easy, routine cleaning and make for a versatile design element (can you say holiday themed shower curtains?) Pro-tip: If you have a shower/bath combo, a curved shower curtain rod will increase the shower space and keep it from feeling cramped.
If you do decide to continue with a glass surround (let’s face it, nothing creates visual space like glass does), you’ll need to add a squeegee to your shopping list. Use it after every shower to reduce your water spots and streaks, as well as increase the time between deep cleanings! For any lingering build-up and water spots, use a specialized glass cleaner for these stubborn spots.
7. Ensure That the Space Is Well-Lit
There’s a long list of reasons to want a well-lit bathroom, the most important one being avoiding a fall. You can’t avoid a fall risk if you can’t see it! Adding quality lighting above your vanities as well as overhead should be plenty for most spaces, but you may consider adding lighting inside an enclosed shower for added safety. Stop in to the lighting department at your local Kenyon Noble and explore your options for a well-lit bathroom.
8. Choose Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile
Few things on this Earth will outlive porcelain. Add in the fact that it’s easy to clean and durable, you won’t regret having porcelain throughout the bathroom as long as it’s compatible with the style you’re trying to achieve. Cleaning grout not high on your list of favorite activities? Look for tiles with a rectified edge to allow for thin grout joints. Be sure to seal the grout afterwards for added ease of cleaning!
9. Look for Textured Flooring
Regardless of the type of flooring you decide on, choose one with a high slip resistance. Slippery tile in a wet environment is a recipe for disaster, and a fall is not only likely, it is almost guaranteed. Choosing a textured flooring over a smooth one is a good rule of thumb.
10. Go With a Curbless Shower Entry
If the footprint of your bathroom will allow for it, there are several reasons to go with a curbless shower. The absence of a curb not only makes laying flooring easier, it is a modern and elegant design choice that allows the flooring to run the length of the room uninterrupted, giving the illusion of a larger space. But enough about looks — going curbless eliminates a trip hazard AND can allow for wheelchair access down the road.
There are a few things to consider when planning a curbless shower. First of all, you must plan for the shower footprint to include the “splash zone” and be very strategic on where other features will reside in relation to the shower. You must also ensure that the floor slopes towards the drain, to minimize water pooling outside the shower area.
11. Consider the Lip Around Your Tub
The wider and higher the lip around the tub, the further you have to step, and the more likely you are to losing your balance. When choosing a tub, make sure to consider the width of the lip around the tub. Go narrow if you plan on climbing in and out of the tub for the forseeable future, or consider installing a surround so you can sit on the edge and swing your legs over and into the bathtub. Regardless of what tub you go with, don’t forget the grab bars!
While fall risks can’t be eliminated completely, we can always do our best to prevent them. For all your special projects, advice on products and materials, and quality service, visit your local Kenyon Noble to get the job done right.
While do-it-yourself projects can be fun and fulfilling, there is always a potential for personal injury or property damage. We strongly suggest that any project beyond your abilities be left to licensed professionals such as electricians, plumbers, and carpenters. Any action you take upon the information on this website is strictly at your own risk, and we assume no responsibility or liability for the contents of this article.