We believe great design should be beautiful, functional—and all-inclusive. As more families embrace multi-generational living or prepare their homes for independently living in their homes as long as possible, the bathroom is one of the most important spaces to rethink through the lens of universal design.
Drawing inspiration from the National Kitchen & Bath Association’s (NKBA) Bathroom Planning Guidelines with Access Standards and The Living In Place Institute’s guidelines, we can help create spaces that are not only safe and accessible, but also stylish and customized to your needs.
Zero-Threshold Showers
A curbless shower doesn’t just offer easier access for those using mobility devices—it can create a sleek, seamless look. With the right tile layout and linear drainage, this design choice adds a modern aesthetic while reducing trip hazards for everyone. Not every home can accommodate a zero-threshold shower due to existing structural conditions, such as floor joist direction or plumbing placement. When that’s the case, we explore low-threshold options—still highly accessible, while offering a similar modern aesthetic and functionality.
Grab Bar-Ready Walls
We encourage clients to install grab bars during a bathroom remodel—even if no one in the household currently needs them. All it takes is one unexpected slip on the ice or a minor surgery to suddenly need a little extra support, even temporarily. Today’s grab bars are far from institutional; they’re designed to blend beautifully with your bathroom’s style and can coordinate with other accessories like towel bars, or even double as a toilet paper holder or shower shelf combo unit.
If you’re not quite ready to commit to full installation, we recommend adding blocking behind the walls during the remodel. This allows you to securely install grab bars later without additional demolition—future-proofing your bathroom while keeping your current design clean and uninterrupted.
Comfort-Height Toilets & Bidet Integration
Comfort-height toilets (17–19 inches tall) are easier on the knees and back—a thoughtful upgrade for all generations. Pair with a bidet seat for an added layer of comfort, hygiene, and independence.
Safe, Slip-Resistant Surfaces
We guide clients toward flooring materials with texture and grip, reducing the risk of falls in wet environments. A bonus? Slip-resistant materials come in gorgeous patterns and visual textures that enhance your bathroom’s overall design!
Wider Doorways & Space-Saving Entry Options
We recommend a 36-inch-wide doorway for comfort of all body sizes and accommodating mobility aids. Pocket doors or barn-style sliding doors can offer increased accessibility without compromising space or style.
Design for Today and Tomorrow
Universal design doesn’t mean “one-size-fits-all”—it means thoughtful, future-ready solutions tailored to your family’s current need and future life stages. Whether you're welcoming aging parents into your home, designing your forever space, or planning ahead for life’s changes, Bella Domicile is here to help bring your vision to life.
Let’s create a bathroom that works for every generation, without sacrificing beauty or function.
Ready to reimagine your space? Contact us to schedule a design consultation with one of our experts.
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