When designing a family-friendly bathroom, a walk-in shower can be an excellent choice. It offers accessibility, ease of cleaning, and a modern look that can elevate the entire space. However, creating a walk-in shower that suits the needs of every family member requires thoughtful planning. Here are some practical tips and design ideas to help you get started.
Prioritise safety
Safety is paramount, especially in a family home where children and elderly members might be using the shower. Here are some safety features to consider:
Non-Slip Flooring: Choose tiles or flooring materials with a non-slip surface to prevent falls.
Grab Bars: Install grab bars inside the shower for additional support. They come in various designs that can complement your bathroom decor.
Shower Seat: A built-in or foldable shower seat can be beneficial for children, elderly family members, or anyone needing a rest while showering.
Ensure easy access
A walk-in shower should be easily accessible to all family members, including those with mobility issues. Consider these design elements:
Low Profile Tray: Opt for a low profile tray to make it easier for everyone to enter and exit the shower with only a small step in and out.
Wide Doorways: Ensure that the shower entrance is wide enough to accommodate mobility aids such as walkers or wheelchairs if needed.
Adjustable Shower Heads: Install a shower head with a flexible hose and adjustable height settings to accommodate users of different heights.
Choose durable materials
Family bathrooms experience heavy use, so it's important to select durable and easy-to-clean materials:
High-Quality Tiles: Ceramic or porcelain tiles are durable and easy to maintain. They are also available in a variety of styles and colours.
Tempered Glass: For shower doors, tempered glass is a safe and strong option. It’s also easy to clean and adds a modern touch.
Waterproof Grout: Use epoxy grout or other waterproof options to prevent mold and mildew build up.
Add fun and functional features
Make the shower experience enjoyable for all family members with these features:
Rainfall Shower Head: A rainfall shower head can add a luxurious feel to the showering experience.
Colourful Tiles: Brighten up the space with colourful or patterned tiles that can make shower time fun for kids.
Thermostatic Valve: Install a thermostatic mixing valve to maintain a consistent water temperature and prevent scalding.
Design for easy cleaning
A family bathroom needs to be easy to clean and maintain:
Large Tiles: Use large tiles with minimal grout lines to reduce cleaning time and effort.
Frameless Shower Doors: Frameless doors have fewer crevices where dirt and soap scum can accumulate, making them easier to clean.
Handheld Shower Heads: A handheld shower head can make cleaning the shower itself much easier, allowing you to rinse down walls and floors effectively.
By incorporating these practical tips and design ideas, you can create a walk-in shower that meets the needs of every family member, blending functionality with style. A well-designed walk-in shower can enhance your bathroom's usability and aesthetics, making it a cherished space in your family home.
Comments