Future Proofing Your Bathroom

In order to future-proof your bathroom you should start by thinking about who lives in the home now, and how this may change in the future. For example, are you planning to stay in your home in old age, will you be looking after elderly relatives etc?

A well-planned bathroom scheme goes beyond accessibility and isn’t about adding clinical-looking items. A well-designed bathroom will work at any stage of life.

Below are some ways of future-proofing your bathroom space

Buy a comfort-height toilet

Most toilets are around 38cm high. Comfort-height toilets are more like 43cm to 48cm high, which can make sitting and standing much easier. This can reduce the strain on your back and knees.

Ensure the bathroom has plenty of lighting

The better the lighting in your bathroom is the less strain on your eyes. You also don’t want to miss any slippery spots that can be hidden by shadows. There are various lighting forms that you can choose from, including recessed lighting, vanity unit lighting, lamps and natural light. You may even consider placing lighting inside an enclosed shower.

Install a handheld showerhead

Handheld shower heads are easily adjustable for height and, combined with a shower seat enable you to shower whilst seated.

Include a shower seat

A safe place to sit in the shower is a good idea for an age-proof bathroom design. Decreasing the amount of time you stand in the shower not only eases the strain on your body, it also reduces the chances of slipping and falling. Be sure to install or buy a bench that’s large enough to comfortably sit and bathe on.

Add grab bars in the shower

Sturdy grab bars provide something for you to hold on to as you’re entering and exiting the shower or sitting down on a shower bench or seat. Install one on the outside of your shower and each of your interior walls, so you can safely navigate the space.