A bathroom remodel is the ideal time to think beyond immediate style and function to plan for long-term usability. More homeowners are seeing the benefits of future-proofing their bathrooms, making their spaces safe and accessible for years to come. DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Wilmington, a trusted bathroom remodeler, has long-championed designs that emphasize safety and mobility for lasting comfort and convenience.
Universal Design
Central to the concept of age-proofing is the application of universal design principles. Universal design ensures that a bathroom is accessible and functional for individuals of all ages and abilities, without sacrificing style. Incorporating features such as varying sink heights, slip-resistant flooring, and ample lighting can make a bathroom safer and more comfortable for everyone, from young children to older adults.
One critical element in age-proofing is ensuring that the bathroom is easily accessible. This might involve widening doorways to at least 36 inches to accommodate assistive devices or designing showers that allow walk-in access without thresholds, which can pose tripping hazards. If the space in your home is constrained, savvy design solutions can ensure that your bathroom is remodeled to enhance accessibility.
Safety and Comfort Combined
A key concern for some homeowners is the risk of falls, which can have serious repercussions. Addressing this through your bathroom remodel can reduce such risks. Opting for textured tile or vinyl flooring offers better grip and stability, minimizing the chances of slips. Similarly, selecting bathtubs and showers with built-in benches and handrails can provide the necessary support that might become crucial with advancing age.
Illumination plays a significant role in bathroom safety, and a skilled bathroom contractor can help you design a well-lit space that meets both aesthetic and functional needs. Natural light should be maximized wherever possible, while artificial lighting solutions should aim to reduce glare and ensure the space is evenly lit. Thoughtfully placed task lighting and motion-sensor lights can further enhance the usability and safety of the bathroom.
Aesthetic Appeal and Long-Term Value
Choosing to age-proof your bathroom doesn’t mean compromising on aesthetics. Modern fixtures and fittings designed with universal design principles in mind can be both functional and visually appealing. For instance, grab bars no longer have to give your bathroom a hospital-like feel. Today, they come in designs that seamlessly integrate with your bathroom’s overall look.
From a value perspective, a bathroom that is accessible and safe for all ages can significantly enhance your home’s appeal to a broader market. Whether you’re planning to sell soon or decades down, an age-proofed bathroom is a feature that prospective buyers will find attractive, knowing it’s one less modification they’ll have to undertake.
Leveraging Local Expertise
At DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Wilmington, we help homeowners design and complete bathroom remodels that suit both their current needs and future plans. Our expertise ensures a balance between practical and aesthetic details, creating a space that’s perfect for today and ready for tomorrow.
Let’s Start a Conversation!
Regain your freedom with a bathroom remodel focused on universal design and lasting value. As a trusted accessible remodeler, DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Wilmington is here to enhance your home’s accessibility and improve your quality of life. Call us at (910) 928-2207 or use our contact form to schedule an appointment. We serve homeowners in Wilmington, Cape Fear, New Hanover, Carolina Place, Pender County, and neighboring communities.
