Various Handicap Accessible Bathroom Designs for the Home

House hunters in the market for new construction may find themselves surprised to discover handicapped accessible bathrooms included in many available floor plans. This style of bathroom is becoming increasingly popular for users of all ages and mobility levels because of the safety and convenience provided. With that in mind, builders are making handicap accessible bathroom designs more readily available for buyers since homes with these designs are often more marketable and profitable. Existing property owners are also discovering growing needs to retrofit their homes to improve accessibility for older or disabled family members.

Whether the desire is to find new construction with already included handicap bathrooms or to remodel an existing home, there are several different design options to consider. There are two main features that serve as the centerpiece of most handicap accessible bathroom designs today:

·         Walk-in bathtubs – Bathrooms with walk-in bathtubs are becoming highly popular because this style of fixture not only improves accessibility, it can add luxury and comfort to a bathroom, as well. Walk-in tubs rely on a swinging door to provide users access to the bath. In doing so, a traditional tub’s 20-inch step over is eliminated, which creates safety. Available for new installation and retrofit use, walk-in bathtubs address some of the biggest concerns in the bathroom. Depending on upgrades selected, they may also deliver spa-quality relaxation features, as well. Common upgrades include heated seating, hot water jets, warm air massage and aromatherapy.

·         Barrier-free shower stalls – Unlike a standard bathroom shower stall that is separate from a tub, this type of design eliminates the need to step over to get in. By using a special floor pan, a barrier-free shower makes this space more accessible to people with mobility challenges. The design is also suitable for use with built in seating and grab bars to further enhance safety. These designs can be used in brand new construction and may be customized to suit existing bathroom spaces, as well.

As the need for safer, more accessible bathrooms becomes evident, builders and fixture manufacturers are making this option more readily available. Buyers will now find accessible bathrooms included directly in new construction floor plans. Existing homeowners will also discover that retrofitting their bathrooms is a highly viable option to address accessibility or safety needs.