For many homeowners, the ultimate goal is to live independently and comfortably in the place they love for as long as possible. This is the core concept of Aging in Place, and in Atlanta, where homes have distinct character and layouts, the bathroom is the single most critical room to address.
Statistically, the bathroom is the site of the most frequent falls in a home. By incorporating principles of Universal Design, an Accessible Bathroom Design Atlanta renovation goes beyond simple safety measures—it creates a beautiful, highly functional space for all ages and abilities.
At Varilko Remodeling, we specialize in these thoughtful transformations, blending safety features seamlessly with high-end style. Here is your guide to essential modifications for aging in place remodeling Atlanta.
1. The Foundation: Roll-In/Curbless Showers
The biggest obstacle and hazard in any traditional bathroom is the tub wall or high shower curb. Eliminating this barrier is the most important step in creating a truly accessible space.
The Curbless Advantage
A curbless shower (also called a zero-entry or roll-in shower) creates a seamless transition from the bathroom floor directly into the shower area.
- Safety: Eliminates the tripping hazard for all users, including those with limited mobility, walkers, or wheelchairs.
- Aesthetics: Provides a sleek, expansive look, particularly when paired with a frameless glass enclosure and a linear drain.
- Investment Insight: While the initial curbless shower cost Atlanta can be slightly higher than a traditional tub/shower conversion—due to the structural work needed to slightly slope the subfloor—the long-term safety and enhanced home value make it a worthwhile investment (Source: This Old House).
Essential Shower Features:
- Fold-Down Seat: Provides a safe place to rest or shower while seated.
- Handheld Shower Wand: Essential for seated showering or for cleaning the space.
- Thermostatic Valve: Prevents scalding by holding the water temperature constant, even if a toilet is flushed elsewhere in the house.
2. Accessibility in Detail: Fixtures and Space
Once the shower is addressed, every other fixture must be considered through the lens of long-term independence.
The Power of Space and Clearance
For full wheelchair accessibility (ADA home modifications), the layout must accommodate maneuvering. We design for a minimum clear turning space of 60 inches in diameter. Leveraging pocket doors instead of swinging doors can also reclaim valuable space, making the room easier to navigate.
3. Varilko’s Approach to Future-Proofing Your Home
Aging in place remodeling Atlanta is about preventative design. We work with you to understand your current and future needs, ensuring that modifications are made efficiently and beautifully.
- Wall Blocking: We often install structural blocking (wood reinforcement) inside the walls during the renovation. This allows you to install grab bars later—or reposition them—without tearing the walls out, ensuring safety is ready when you are.
- Lighting: We focus on bright, uniform lighting and often include motion-sensor switches for ease of entry and exit.
- Seamless Integration: We ensure accessible elements, like lever handles and grab bars, match your chosen finishes (matte black, brushed gold, etc.), so the design feels intentional and luxurious, not clinical.
Embrace the future of living in your Atlanta home with confidence. A well-designed, accessible bathroom is a gift of independence and security for everyone in the family.
Ready to Invest in Your Long-Term Comfort and Safety?
Contact Varilko Remodeling today to explore your options for Accessible Bathroom Design Atlanta and begin creating a space that works for you, now and for decades to come.
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