How to Design an Accessible Bathroom That Stands Out

If you’re looking to make your bathroom more accessible but still want to maintain your style. We’ve got you covered!

Accessible bathrooms, which are also referred to as Assisted Living Bathrooms, are designed for people who struggle with their mobility, and every aspect of the bathroom works to assist their user. From taps to toilets, there are so many ways to make your bathroom more accessible. A fully accessible bathroom will have an appropriate floor plan which makes the most of available floor space, whilst featuring unique and clever designs which can make bathroom routines more independent and comfortable.  

However, just because you are designing a disability friendly bathroom, you don't need to shy away from contemporary designs and unique styles. From modern walk in showers to contemporary grab rails, there are so many ways to transform your accessible bathroom into fresh and luxurious space.

Grab Rails

Grab rails are a must have in any accessible bathroom. They help to make the bathroom a more independent space that is safer and easier to navigate. However, some grab rails run the risk of creating a clinical look in your bathroom which  can ruin that luxurious and relaxing aesthetic.

Instead of the clinical white grab rails, a chrome finished grab rail like the Milton Luxury Angled Grab Bar will provide safety and stability in the bathroom, whilst adding a touch of modern elegance to achieve that luxurious aesthetic in your space.

Alternatively, if you want to achieve a more contemporary style, opting for matt black grab rails is a great option for you. It's time to make grab rails an aesthetic addition to an accessible bathroom instead of a medical necessity. Adding multiple grab rails in the same finish is a great way to create a sense of continuity throughout your bathroom that will elevate the aesthetics in your space.

Accessible Taps

For some people, using a regular tap can be quite difficult. And whilst there are user friendly designs available, sometimes they exude clinical hospital vibes. Defiantly not the aesthetic you would like to feel at home.

If you struggle with your grip, lever taps like the Milton Chrome Modern Lever Basin Taps are much easier to use. Some lever taps can look quite clinical, but opting for lever taps with a modern design will help to achieve a contemporary and on trend aesthetic in your bathroom.

If you want to really embrace modernity, you should consider a sensor tap. Although they typically battery operated, sensor taps eliminate the handle completely and will provide you with safe water temperature that is perfect for day to day use. Another great thing about sensor taps is that they are much more hygienic!

Accessible Basins

Basins and the areas surround them can be difficult to navigate due to the pipes or storage underneath them. Incorporating an accessible basin or washstand will help to open up floorspace and make the area easier to navigate.

Accessible basins are typically wall hung, which means that the basin can be mounted higher or lower to best suit your needs. Wall hung basins are a great way to make your bathroom look modern and sophisticated. The Milton Wall Hung Rectangular Basin will instantly elevate the look of your bathroom with its modern and stylish square design with completely contradicts the usual design of clinical disabled friendly basins.

If modernity isn't your style, you could opt for a wall hung basin with a more traditional design to achieve a chic and classic aesthetic in your bathroom. Alternatively, you could incorporate a comfort height pedestal basin to maintain a traditional look that exudes timeless class.

Accessible Showers

Walk-in showers are great for people who struggle with their mobility. Having a wetroom installed makes showering easier and more independent. Wetrooms also scream luxury and are popping up in bathrooms everywhere! But it is important that you accompany your wetroom with a non-slip floor and grab rails to ensure safety.

To make your wetroom feel more luxurious and spa-like, you should opt for a shower screen instead of a curtain. The Arezzo Square Matt Black Frameless Wetroom Screen will really take your bathroom to the next level. With a frameless matt black design, this screen will achieve a sophisticated yet minimalistic look that will make your accessible bathroom feel more modern and contemporary.

It is also important to think about what shower controls will be the easiest for you to use and that coincides with your preferred style. Similarly with accessible taps, you might find it easier to operate a shower with lever handles instead of circular or square handles. 

Walk-In Baths

Just because you are making your bathroom accessible, it does not mean that you have to sacrifice your bath. Some people love to bathe and there is no reason why you should have to live without one. Walk-in baths are a great addition to any disability bathroom.

Walk-in baths are great for people who struggle to climb in and out of a bath. The side door allows for easy access without any leaks. The Milton Walk In L Shaped Bath is a great option for those looking for a fully accessible way to bathe.

Another benefit of a walk-in bath is that they eliminate the need for a walk in shower. With a walk-in bath, you can simply open the door and use a bath shower as normal. Making them a great choice for people who do not have the budget for a wetroom. 

Easy Access Toilets 

The average person spends around 73 hours a year using the toilet! So it is important that your toilet is suitable for you and fully accessible, whatever your needs!

If you struggle to get on and off a toilet and find yourself looking for the closed grab rail, you may find it easier with a toilet support rail. The AKW Fold-Up Toilet Support Grab Rail with Adjustable Leg is a great option for toilet support. What makes this rail a good option is that you can fold it away when not in use. This will make navigating your bathroom a lot easier by opening up the floor space in your bathroom.

For some people, a smart toilet is a great way to make your bathroom easier to use. We have recently spoken about the benefits of owning a smart toilet and their wide range of features that make your bathroom experience much easier. Others may find that the height of their toilet can make a big difference. Comfort toilets are designed to cater to people’s needs by coming in a range of varying heights, allowing for easy access.

Finishing Touches

When it comes to accessorising your bathroom, there are a couple things you can do to really finish off your bathroom and make your space feel more homely. 

• Place any shelves high on the wall to avoid them becoming a hazard and decorate as you wish.
• Add a mirrored cabinet above your sink for a storage/mirror combo that is easy to reach and out of sight.
• Incorporate wall mounted accessories like soap dispensers and tumblers to keep worktops clear and make products easier to reach.

With all of these accessible bathroom ideas, you will be able to design the bathroom of your dreams that is safe and fully accessible without compromising on style.