Designing an accessible bedroom is a considerate approach that includes everyone, regardless of their physical abilities. Enhancing bedroom accessibility is not only about inclusiveness but also about enhancing comfort and convenience for all inhabitants. G.M. Roth Design Remodeling shares more insight.
Spacious Layouts Facilitate Comfort and Movement
Begin by assessing the current layout of the bedroom. Make sure there’s ample space for maneuverability, especially for those using assistive devices like wheelchairs. A rule of thumb is permitting at least 42 inches for travel paths and around the bed to simplify transfers. This space-conscious approach is paralleled by the spacious layouts often emphasized during kitchen remodeling, where room to move freely is equally essential.
Understanding Universal Design Principles
Universal design is a concept aimed at creating spaces that are universally accessible, safe, and convenient for individuals of all ages and abilities. The essence of universal design is to provide the same ease of use and enjoyment for people with disabilities or those aging in place, as it would for any other resident.
Doorway Precision and Access
A vital consideration in accessible bedroom design is the doorway width. To accommodate a wheelchair user in the household, it is recommended to have doorways that are at least 32 inches wide. In some cases, especially where turns are involved, enlarging the doorway to 36 inches might be necessary. This same precision is demanded in bathroom remodels where accessibility is crucial for user safety and independence.
Elevating Comfort with Bedroom Furniture
The furniture in an accessible bedroom should satisfy both functional needs and personal preferences. Lower shelves and cubbies can replace traditional dressers, and longer rather than taller furniture ensures everything is within reach without straining. Just as choices in materials and finishes matter in kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects, so does selecting appropriate bedroom furniture for accessibility and ease.
Lighting the Way Wisely
Lighting is another critical component in designing an accessible bedroom. Multiple lighting sources, including ambient and task lighting, should be installed with dimmer switches for customizable brightness levels. Moreover, motion-activated lighting can guide the way during nocturnal movements, much like the convenience of sensor lighting in a well-designed bathroom remodel.
Integrating Smart Home Technology
Smart home technology, not dissimilar to innovative solutions often found in modern kitchen remodeling, brings a new layer of convenience to the accessible bedroom. Voice-activated controls for lighting, window blinds, and entertainment systems can drastically reduce the physical strain for someone with limited mobility while offering an enhanced level of autonomy and independence.
Contact Us Today!
Designing an accessible bedroom presents an opportunity to combine aesthetic appeal with functionality to accommodate residents of all mobility levels. The team at G.M. Roth Design Remodeling understands the nuances of integrating universal design principles to create bedrooms that are a sanctuary for comfort and independence.
We serve homeowners in Nashua, NH, as well as in Chelmsford and North Andover, MA. Give us a call at (603) 880-3761, or fill out the form on our contact page to schedule a consultation.
