Creating An Accessible Shower In Your Bathroom: Four Stylish Finishing Touches To Consider

Adding an accessible shower to your bathroom can be a great way to make your home more inviting to all your family members, and it can also come in handy if you ever experience decreased mobility. However, adding an accessible shower doesn't have to mean sacrificing style. Here are some options you can use to make your shower enclosure as stylish as it is accessible.

Built-In Seating

Benches are often essential for people who have difficulty standing up in the shower. Instead of purchasing a hospital-style bench, consider having your contractor create a built-in design. This bench can run the length of one shower wall, or it can be placed near the center of the shower enclosure. Consider adding stainless steel handles with a sleek design for a comfortable grip when standing up or sitting down, and think about a textured seat design to prevent slipping. You may also want to place nonslip grips on the floor surrounding the bench for added safety.

Handheld Shower Sprayer

A handheld shower spray can make independent bathing easier, and there are many designs to choose from that can add a perfect finishing touch to your bathroom. Look for oil-rubbed bronze finishes to create a vintage-inspired look, or opt for a matter stainless steel finish to bring a modern look to your shower enclosure. You can install a handheld nozzle that operates independently from the main shower head to accommodate all visitors to your home. This also gives you the freedom to install a rainfall shower head or another similar spa-inspired accessory without sacrificing accessibility.

Recessed Lighting

Visibility is important for an accessible shower. You or your loved one will want to be able to navigate the threshold to the shower and find all hardware controls easily. Adding recessed lighting can be the perfect option, and it can also add a warm, welcoming glow to the bathroom. You can install the lighting in the center of the shower ceiling, or you can opt for smaller lights that line the perimeter of the shower enclosure. Consider installing the same type of lighting throughout the bathroom to create a more cohesive look and to ensure the entire space is properly lit.

Built-In Wall Cubbies

Hanging shampoos and soaps off of the shower head can make it difficult for people with mobility issues to reach these personal care items. This shower storage option can also lead to a messy, cluttered look. Instead, work with your contractor to create built-in wall cubbies around the shower for storing soaps, conditioners, and other showering essentials. Place some of them at lower heights to accommodate wheelchair users, and place additional cubbies higher up on the wall for easy access when standing. You can also install one under a window in the shower to display potted plants or other decor items.

For more information, contact a shower enclosure professional.