Creating a functional, safe, and comfortable bathroom environment is crucial for wheelchair users. However, transforming a conventional bathroom into a fully accessible one can be daunting without proper guidance. 

This comprehensive guide delves into the fundamental considerations for designing mobility-friendly bathrooms, from wheelchair accessible bathroom floor plans to showers, dimensions, fixtures, features, and more.

Understanding Wheelchair User Needs

The first step is recognising that wheelchair users have diverse requirements and preferences. While one individual may rely heavily on grab bars for transfers, another may use a shower chair instead. Though general accessibility guidelines exist, it’s important to cater designs to individual needs. 

Wheelchair Accessible Bathroom Floor Plans

Bathroom layouts should be planned meticulously for easy manoeuvrability and maximum accessibility. Here are some efficient floor plan ideas:

Open Concept

Knocking down walls or removing an existing bath can integrate the toilet, basin, and shower spaces into one open area. A single large open space allows ample room for manoeuvring wheelchairs alongside ergonomically placed fixtures and aids.

Circular Design

This design typically features a central space that allows a wheelchair to rotate freely, reducing the need for complicated manoeuvres. Fixtures like basins, toilets, and storage are arranged in a circular or semi-circular pattern around this central space, ensuring that everything is within easy reach from a seated position.

 The circular design also creates a contemporary look, making the bathroom functional yet stylish.

Corner Shower

A corner shower can optimise space while providing easier wheelchair access. A corner shower stall creates more depth and front opening width by using two adjoining walls instead of one. 

Wheelchair Accessible Bathroom Ideas

Designing a wheelchair accessible bathroom doesn't mean you have to compromise on style. There are plenty of ways to ensure the space is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

• Consider installing a floating vanity. This not only allows for wheelchair access but also creates a sense of space and modernity. 

• Incorporate storage solutions that are within easy reach from a seated position. Wall-mounted cabinets and open shelving are both practical and stylish options. 

• Using contrasting and vibrant colours can help visually impaired individuals navigate the space more easily.

• Frameless glass shower screens provide an airier, less confining effect than shower curtains.

Wheelchair Accessible Bathroom Showers

One of the most important aspects of a wheelchair accessible bathroom is the shower.

• Shower entry and size: Wheelchair accessible bathroom showers should be curbless, with a wide entrance for easy access. The shower area should be spacious enough to accommodate a wheelchair and possibly a caregiver if needed. 

• Showerhead: A handheld showerhead is a must, allowing for greater flexibility and control. 

• Shower seat: Consider installing a padded seat for added comfort and safety. The seat should be sturdy, slip-resistant, and foldable to save space when not in use.

• Grab bars: Installing a grab bar across the shower entrance provides stability. Choose a corrosion-resistant bar with good grip. 

• Non-slip flooring: Water-resistant, skid-free vinyl or rubber sheets help prevent falls on wet floors. Also, install adequate drainage to ensure water doesn’t pool in the shower area.

• Easy-access controls: Thermostatic taps with large dials or lever handles allow easy, intuitive flow and temperature adjustments from a seated position.

Wheelchair Bathroom Dimensions

Use this checklist of minimum wheelchair bathroom dimensions to enable comfortable transfers, turning around, and accessing fixtures in a seated position:

Doorways

The bathroom door should have an approximate minimum of 870 mm wide opening and be easy to operate, preferably with lever handles. Doors should either open outwards or be sliding for a wider clearance. Alternatively, consider two entry doors for better access.

Turning Space

The minimum space required for a wheelchair to turn around is about 1500 x 1500 mm. However, more space is always better for comfort and ease of use. 

Sink

For a forward approach in a wheelchair, provide clear knee space under the sink of at least 700 mm high by 500 mm deep by 1100 mm wide. The sink rim height should be no higher than approximately 800 mm.

Shower

The shower area should be a minimum of about 1000 x 1000 mm, but a larger space of 1200 x 1200 mm is preferred to provide ample room for a wheelchair user.

Remember that these are general guidelines, and the individual's specific needs should always be considered in the design process.

How to Design a Wheelchair Accessible Bathroom

Designing a wheelchair accessible bathroom involves several key steps:

1. Assess needs: Start by understanding the specific needs of the wheelchair user, including their physical abilities, the type of wheelchair they use, and their personal preferences.

2. Plan the layout: Based on the user's needs, plan a layout that provides ample space for movement. Ensure there's enough room for a wheelchair to turn around.

3. Select accessible fixtures: Choose fixtures like sinks, toilets, and showers that are accessible from a wheelchair. Consider the height and positioning of each fixture for ease of use.

4. Incorporate safety features: Install grab bars near the toilet and shower area. Ensure non-slip flooring and adequate lighting.

5. Ensure adequate space: Make sure there is enough space around the toilet and within the shower for easy transfer from the wheelchair. The doorway should be wide enough for a wheelchair to pass through easily.

6. Optimise storage: Position storage elements such as cabinets and shelves at an accessible height.

7. Work with professionals: Consider working with a professional with experience designing accessible spaces. They can help ensure that all design aspects are functional, safe, and aesthetically pleasing.

8. Review and adjust: Consult with the user to ensure their needs are met and make adjustments as necessary.

Achieve Accessibility Excellence with Wetroomstop

Designing a wheelchair accessible bathroom requires a balance of function, safety, and aesthetics. From the initial floor plan to the final touches, every aspect should be geared towards creating a space that promotes independence, comfort, and dignity.

Here at Wetroomstop, we offer a complete range of supplies to create beautiful, wheelchair-friendly bathrooms. With quality products like level access shower trays, shower enclosures, and waterproofing materials, you can create bathrooms tailored to each wheelchair user’s needs. 

Contact our team today for design advice and product recommendations to make your accessible bathroom visions a reality.