Designing an accessible bathroom is one of the smartest updates you can make for long term comfort, safety, and ease of use. Whether you are planning ahead for aging in place or creating a space that works for guests of all abilities, a few thoughtful design choices go a long way. As a Columbus OH renovation team that handles both residential and commercial projects, we help homeowners turn everyday bathrooms into welcoming, functional spaces that feel good to use.
What is an accessible bathroom?
An accessible bathroom is designed so anyone can use it comfortably and safely. Wider doorways, more open floor space, a shower without steps, and fixtures placed at easier-to-reach heights are all common features. The goal is simple: remove obstacles and create a layout that supports independent use, whether someone uses a wheelchair, has limited mobility, or just needs extra stability.
The benefits of having at least one accessible bathroom
An accessible bathroom adds comfort, safety, and long term flexibility to your home. Even if no one in your household currently uses a mobility aid, having at least one space designed with accessibility in mind often becomes useful sooner than expected. Kids in sports can come home with unexpected injuries, aging relatives might need a simpler slip-free bathing spot, and accommodations for disabilities are often useful for able-bodied individuals too!
For homeowners thinking long term, accessibility supports aging in place. You can stay in your home longer with fewer modifications later. And because accessible design has become more stylish, thoughtful, and modern, it also adds real value when it is time to list the property.
In short, an accessible bathroom serves current needs, future needs, and unexpected needs while still feeling like a comfortable, beautiful part of your home.
Tips for designing accessibly
Families throughout Columbus appreciate the peace of mind that comes with wider pathways, safer flooring, and easier-to-use fixtures. Here’s what you should know about:
Opt for an extra-wide entryway
Aim for a door width of at least 32 inches so wheelchairs and walkers can move through without tight turns. If you cannot enlarge the frame, offset hinges are a simple way to gain a little extra clearance. Be sure the threshold stays flat so the transition into the bathroom feels smooth and safe.
Add extra space around the toilet area
A generous amount of room on one side of the toilet makes transferring easier and gives caregivers space to assist when needed. Many homeowners choose a comfort-height toilet since the extra height reduces the effort needed to sit or stand. If you are not ready for a full remodel, a raised seat or support frame can offer temporary help.
Flat / Walk-in entry for showers
A walk-in or curbless shower is one of the most helpful accessibility features. Removing the step makes rolling in or stepping in safer, and it simplifies everyday movement for everyone. If space allows, aim for a layout that is at least a few feet wide with enough room to turn comfortably. Handheld showerheads and well-placed controls make the shower easier to use from standing or seated positions.
Walk-in entry makes everyday routines smoother for people who simply prefer a safer experience, and it becomes essential if someone experiences a medical surprise like a knee injury, a broken ankle, or a surgery that limits bending or balance. When those situations happen, having accessible features already in place saves stress and helps everyone transition more comfortably at home.
Parents also love the convenience. Helping kids shower is far easier without a tall tub wall, and teens dealing with sports injuries or braces benefit from a lower risk of slips. If you often host grandparents or visitors with mobility concerns, an accessible bathroom lets them move around more confidently and independently.
Grab bars and other support measures
Grab bars provide stability in areas where slips are more likely, including around the toilet and inside the shower. Modern bars come in finishes that blend in with the rest of your design, so they look intentional rather than clinical. Support rails, textured flooring, and non-slip surfaces all work together for a safer experience.
Consider a shower bench or built-in chair
A sturdy bench gives users a comfortable place to sit while showering. Built-in styles offer a sleek look, while fold-down benches save space. Portable options work well if you want flexibility or share the bathroom with people who do not need seating.
Don’t forget lighting
Good visibility is essential in an accessible bathroom. Bright, even lighting reduces shadows and helps those with visual impairments navigate confidently. Motion sensors, dimmer switches, and anti-glare fixtures all contribute to a more comfortable space. Placing switches at lower heights makes them easier for everyone to reach.
Reimagine your home with an elite renovation team
Creating an accessible bathroom is more than a checklist of features. It is about designing a space that supports your lifestyle now and later. Our team at CORE Renovations helps homeowners blend universal design with stylish finishes, practical layouts, and thoughtful details. If you are ready to update a bathroom or rework your entire home for better accessibility, we will guide you from design to completion.
Let us help you create a bathroom that feels safer, easier to use, and tailored to the way you live. Contact us today.
