Traditionally, the built environment has been designed for an idealized, able-bodied, non-elderly adult. Since that description fits less than 15 percent of our population, the result is environments, including kitchens and bathrooms, which create handicaps and barriers for the rest of us. Demographics, legislation, public awareness, and personal experience are pressing us to examine the basic assumptions we have used in design, particularly in high function areas like the kitchen and bath.

The result is design that breaks the traditional molds and is more flexible and adaptable. It is accessible to or useable by all people, regardless of age, size, or physical ability, as much as possible. This is Universal Design.

In terms of bath design, you will want to consider clear floor spaces sufficient for entering, closing the door, and approaching each fixture. In addition, you’ll want support in the walls for grab bars to be placed as needed. The beautiful choices available today in fixtures make it easy to create this supportive environment attractively. For more information, ask your Watkins Construction representative.