Housing...Inside and Out

November 3, 2000
Universal Bathroom Design

Universal design is a concept that makes houses and their contents easier for almost everyone to use. Through careful design, products and environments can be usable for more people at little or no extra cost. Universal, the term chosen because it denotes simplified living for practically everyone, targets the needs of all people, regardless of age, physical characteristics, or ability.

When universal design principles are used, every building and the products used therein is developed for greater usefulness by as many people as possible. That includes every faucet, light fixture, shower stall and all other implements used in everyday life.

Since the bathroom is one of the most expensive rooms in the house as well as somewhat difficult to adapt or remodel later, it is necessary to plan for both present and future needs of all residents of the home.

When building or remodeling, the bathroom should be designed around maintaining the independence of all the home's residents. It is important to remember that with proper design decisions, the home does not have to appear like an institution.

Some basic universal design features for bathrooms include:

The clear floor space should be a minimum of 5 feet by 5 feet. In addition to providing wheel chair accessibility, this provides a larger bathroom that all will enjoy.

A minimum of 18 inches of clear space should be provided on one side of the toilet with 3 feet being preferable.

If the bathroom door can swing out of the room rather than into the bathroom, this can prove beneficial. Space for manipulating a wheelchair in the bathroom or having someone to assist another person is much easier with this design.

Grab bars make maneuvering easier for the individual in a wheelchair or individuals who are unsteady on their feet. If you decide grab bars are not necessary at the present time, then at least plan for reinforcement to be placed in the walls as they are being constructed. The walls around the tub, shower and toilet should be reinforced at 32 to 38 inches from the floor level.

Most towel bars will not support the weight of a person. However, grab bars can be used as towel bars if the towels are removed when using as a grab bar. Grab bars are available in colors to match the room décor. Note: Any protrusion such as a soap dish might be grabbed for support. Therefore, be sure any protrusion is fastened securely enough to hold approximately 250 pounds.

Bathroom sinks with an opening underneath allow use by a seated person. Pedestal sinks, wall-hung sinks, and a sink built into a cabinet that is open underneath are some options. Pipes under the sink should be insulated to avoid burns.

Bathroom mirrors and medicine cabinets should be installed at a height that is accessible for a seated user. If the mirror extends down to the back splash, children and seated adults have a view of the mirror while using the sink. It also reduces water damage to the wall behind the sink and makes it easier to clean behind the faucet. It also makes the room seem more spacious.

An adjustable-height shower head can be adjusted to suit the height of different users and makes it possible to avoid wetting a bandage, cast, hairdo, or anything else that should remain dry. It can also be used for massaging one's back and rinsing hair.

Single lever faucet handles are easier to use for all individuals but particularly for persons with limited strength in their hands or those who have difficulty twisting their hands or wrists.

In-tub showers can be inaccessible to wheelchair users unless the tub is raised. A space must be provided at the side or the end of the tub for a transfer seat. A vertical grab bar should be located near the seat with a single-lever mixer faucet on the wall above the tub where it is easily accessible. A spray hand-held shower attached to a flexible hose is extremely useful.

A stall shower is accessible to a wheelchair user if the floor surface is continuous into the shower stall. A shower seat for persons who are unsteady on their feet should be installed. Controls must be located low enough for a seated person to easily reach.


Written by Dr. Francis Graham (Retired)

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