Project Description
Our client was in an accident and as a result will be using a wheelchair in the future. Which made the current master bathroom layout an obstacle course that was hard to navigate and required more effort than needed. Everything seemed too tall, like the vanity heights, mirrors, and even the shampoo niches creating challenges every day. To reduce stress and make their life easier it was time to remodel this entire master bathroom prioritizing accessibility, function, and aesthetics. 1. Removed the whirlpool tub so that we could better utilize the floor space for a larger shower and access in and out of the shower. 2. Existing shower had a bench seat, shower door, and threshold that impeded the mobility of the owner. The new shower was curbless, so they could wheel in without transferring to a different chair; removed the bench seat for additional space within the shower so it wasn't so tight; and removed the shower door for ease on entry & exit. 3. Placed shower valves at the entrance of the shower, versus underneath the shower head. This way they could turn on water without getting wet in the process. 4. Vanity cabinets: removed existing cabinetry and redesigned with careful attention to wheelchair & seat height, owners reach, and what was the new "eye level" standard for mirror height. All with keeping the cabinetry looking like a piece of furniture vs. something you might find in a healthcare facility. 5. Removed the door trim off the entry into the Master Bathroom, widening the opening enough so no fingers were pinched, or door trim dented getting the wheelchair through the space. The result is a beautiful master bathroom at first glance. Then after further review you start to see the little details that make it specific to our client. First, we removed the large tub and installed a curbless shower allowing our client more room to maneuver in and out of the shower freely in her wheelchair. We also moved the shower valve to the knee wall allowing her to turn the water on without getting wet. The shampoo niche was also built to her specific height. Second, the vanity sink was difficult to reach. We removed the cabinet allowing her to roll right under the sink in her wheelchair making it much easier to use. With the extra space from the tub removal, we were able to build her a separate make-up area. The countertop is specific to her chair height, outlets were installed inside the drawers making it easier to plug in hair tools and other items. Lastly, the door opening to the master bath was too small. It was difficult getting her wheelchair through the opening. We widen the door allowing her to easily roll right in! The client was very involved in the entire process, so they were delighted by the end result. First and foremost, it was a functional success with all their obstacles now gone. Out client may now enjoy her new space on her own without requiring help.