For many of us, our Pittsburgh-area house is more than just a building; it’s a home filled with decades of memories. The thought of leaving it behind can be heartbreaking. The good news is, you may not have to.
"Aging in place" is the act of making thoughtful, proactive modifications to your home so you can continue to live in it safely, independently, and comfortably for years to come. And the single most important room to focus on for this journey is the bathroom.
A standard bathroom is filled with potential hazards for anyone with changing mobility - from slippery surfaces to high thresholds. At Enlightened Remodeling, we believe that a safe bathroom doesn't have to look clinical or sterile. It can be both beautiful and secure. Here’s how to design a safe and accessible bathroom that will serve you for a lifetime.
1. The Shower: Creating a Safe Entry Point
The shower or tub is where most bathroom accidents occur. The primary goal is to eliminate the need to step up and over a high threshold.
Zero-Threshold or Curbless Shower: This is the gold standard for accessibility. By removing the curb, you create a seamless transition from the bathroom floor directly into the shower. This is not only essential for wheelchair users but also dramatically reduces the risk of tripping for everyone. It’s a sleek, modern look that benefits the entire family.
Built-in Bench or Seating: A built-in, waterproof bench provides a stable place to sit while showering, reducing fatigue and the risk of a slip.
Strategically Placed Grab Bars: Forget the ugly, institutional grab bars of the past. Modern grab bars are stylish, available in finishes like matte black and brushed nickel, and can double as towel bars or shelving. They should be installed securely into wall studs at key points: near the shower entrance, next to the bench, and near the controls.
Handheld Shower Wand: A movable shower wand on a slide bar allows you to direct the water exactly where you need it, whether you are standing or seated.
We remodeled this shower area for accessibility - adding numerous grab bars to the space and a handheld shower wand. Not pictured are the grab bars we added to the outside of the shower for additional accessibility.
2. The Toilet: Prioritizing Comfort and Stability
Comfort-Height Toilets: These toilets are typically 2-3 inches taller than standard models, making it significantly easier to sit down and stand up without straining your knees and back. It’s a simple change that makes a world of difference.
Grab Bars: Installing sturdy grab bars on one or both sides of the toilet provides crucial support for sitting and standing safely.
3. The Flooring: Your First Line of Defense Against Slips
Slick floors are a major hazard. The right flooring material is critical.
Non-Slip Tile: If you love the look of tile, choose porcelain with a high "coefficient of friction" (COF) rating or a matte, textured finish. Smaller tiles with more grout lines can also provide extra grip.
Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT): LVT is an excellent choice for an accessible bathroom. It’s naturally slip-resistant, warmer, and softer underfoot than tile, which can help cushion a fall. It's also 100% waterproof and easy to maintain.
4. The Vanity, Sink & Faucets: Making Life Easier
Wall-Mounted or "Floating" Vanity: A vanity that is open underneath provides space for a wheelchair or a stool to slide under, allowing someone to comfortably use the sink while seated.
Lever-Handle Faucets: Faucets with lever handles, rather than round knobs, are much easier to operate for those with arthritis or limited hand strength. Touch-activated faucets are another excellent, user-friendly option.
5. Lighting and Layout: Seeing is Believing
Bright, Layered Lighting: Good lighting is a safety feature. Ensure the room has bright, even, non-glare lighting. This includes an overhead light, task lighting around the vanity, and a dedicated waterproof light within the shower stall.
Wider Doorways: A standard doorway may not be wide enough for a walker or wheelchair. Expanding the bathroom door to 36 inches is a key modification for future accessibility.
A Note for Pittsburgh Homeowners
Many of our beloved older homes in Allegheny County have small, quirky bathroom layouts. This doesn't mean you can't make them accessible. A smart design can often reconfigure a space to incorporate these safety features without requiring a major addition. Working with an experienced local contractor who understands the challenges of our region's housing stock is key.
A Future of Independence and Peace of Mind
Creating an accessible bathroom is a profound gift to your future self or a loved one. It’s an investment in independence, safety, and the peace of mind that comes from knowing your home will support you for years to come.
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To get started, fill out the form below with a brief description of your project. We'll follow up by text to request a few photos of the space. Once we have those, we'll give you a call to discuss your project, walk you through our design process, and often provide ballpark pricing right over the phone.
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