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Design considerations for aging-in-place have become the rule and not the exception. ABD is striving to inquire if this present and/or future design is of interest during our interview process. We believe any remodel or new construction should incorporate it. There is an extraordinary amount of information on universal design and its application, which ABD strives to continually research and stay informed. A good source of information for a design of any size bath can be divided into three key categories — safety, comfort and sanitatiion.
Safety - Tile remains the top product used for flooring in baths. Textured finishes on tile and grout lines create a slip-resistant surface in the bath. Polished marble tile is classic but one of the most dangerous products used in the bath due to its slippery when wet surface. One possible solution is to use a smaller tile size with textured accent tiles to create a slip-resistant surface.
Remove potential tripping hazards at the shower by using a trench, linear channel or tile insert drain. A curbless shower installation for walk-in and roll-in access requires informed space planning and installation.
Grab bar products no longer have the institutional look we associate with them. Towel bars are not grab bars and grab bars are not towel bars. They each have a specific purpose. It is best that we, as a design/build company, anticipate your needs by installing blocking in the shower, tub and toilet area. We will happily leave a diagram of the blocking with you as reference for future use.
Multiple lighting options in the bath provide the best solutions for safety and comfort. With the options available, there is no excuse to install a single light bar over the mirror and call it good design. Sensor technology with recessed lighting at the toe kick space on a vanity provides enough illumination for someone to use the bathroom during the night and not shock the eyes. Several smaller recessed fixtures, rated for damp locations, create better overall illumination. Multiple lighting options and the use of dimmers allow for the needs of the individual user.
Whether a free-standing or platform style, the tub controls should be on the access side. Never should you have to reach across or stand in the tub to turn on the water.
If someone in the home ends up using a walker or wheelchair, a wider door allows them access without obstruction. In a remodel, enlarging a door may not be possible. ABD can offer to use swing clear hinges to increase the door opening clearance by 1½ in. to 1¾ in.
Comfort - Radiant floor heat should be a part of every project. You will notice ABD offers this (it's easy to vouch for it from personal experience!). It works with a variety of flooring types but tile is the best product for the installation. A soft, even, continuous heat in the bath is a benefit for all individuals.
Code dictates the centerline for the toilet should be 16 inches, but generally ABD will design an 18-in. centerline to allow for a more comfortable use of the toilet with the installation of grab bars. It also allows more space for assisted use at the toilet. A closed elongated front will accommodate all users regardless of age or physical ability.
Sanitation - In-wall tank and carrier systems for wall-hung toilets allow for continuous uninterrupted flooring in the toilet area. Depending on the toilet size and mounting, this type of installation can add accessible floor space in a small bath for a wheelchair user.
Instead of the typical combo heat/light/vent unit, consider at-the-source ventilation to reduce moisture and odors. Ventilation units are best on a timer. Depending on the manufacturer, the vent should run for five to 10 minutes after the user leaves the bathroom.
The products on the market give ABD the opportunity to design and build baths without an institutionalized look. Our responsibility as design professionals is to enhance the livability of the home and accommodate the occupants at all stages of life. Bob and Rita Peterson, Co-Owners of ABD, have both achieved the National Association of Home Builders (in conjunction with AARP thru development) designation of CAPS (Certified Aging in Place Specialists). Please give us a call at 970.225.2323 or contact us thru our website www.abd-ltd.com.
Excerpts from Residential Design and Build magazine
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