You probably only build or renovate a bathroom a couple of times in your life. Considering universal design in the planning process will lead years of easier use at worst and possibly even delay entry into an assisted retirement home at best.
The concept of Universal Design has seven base principles.
The design is useful and marketable to people with diverse abilities.
The design accommodates a wide range of individual preferences and abilities.
The design communicates necessary information effectively to the user, regardless of ambient conditions of the user's sensory abilities.
The design minimizes hazards and the adverse consequences of accidental or unintended actions.
The design can be used efficiently and comfortably, and with a minimum of fatigue.
Appropriate size and space is provided for approach, reach, manipulation, and use, regardless of the user's body size, posture, or mobility.
Using these principals as guidelines we have developed this thought starting bathroom checklist.
Consider using varied height bench tops with movable base cabinets. This will allow access for people in wheel chairs or those who find it difficult to bend.
Allow 60 inch turning space. People with walking frames or wheel chairs can then maneuver through the room.
Brace walls in and around showers and baths. This will allow flexible installation of grab rails when required.
Install a power outlet next to the toilet. An electric bidet or washlet can be installed when required.
The toilet should be mounted about 2.5 inches higher than the standard. This will help frail people to get up off the pan.
Install showers with a hand held option. A six foot hose will be adequate for most bathing situations.
Consider using perimeter grate drains in the showers. This way you can put a one-way fall on the shower floor. This means a shower chair can be positioned without wobble.
Use a toilet paper holder that can be used with one hand.
Use slip resistant flooring in both the bathroom and the shower.
Consider lighting the shower cubicle.
Eliminate sills on shower screens. This will avoid tripping hazards.
Use contrasting colors on the bench top edges.
Install mixing taps (faucets) that allow one handed usage and are connected to a hot water system that is thermostatically controlled.
Putting a bit of thought into bathroom construction at the design phase will lead to years of practical service.
Alex Cochran
Making life more accessible through Universal Design.
For more piratical ideas on renovating using universal design principals visit:
Universal Design Renovations
http://www.universaldesignrenovations.com/wordpress/
A hands on account of the trials & tribulations we encounter renovating a house for disability access.
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