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Russell Kennefick specializes in remodeling homes for the physically challenged, mostly for those who are wheelchair-bound. As president of The Accessibility Contractor Inc. in Millbrae, Calif., he knows what elements are required to make a bathroom functional for his handicapped clients. But that doesn't mean that the room has to look institutional. He always strives to make the homes look--well, homey.
"In doing this kind of work, I try to assess what my client's special needs are and fit the bathroom to their needs," Russell says. He offers these accessibility guidelines for a bathroom that will look good and function well, no matter who uses them:
Dimensions. The door into the bathroom--and other doors in the house--should be a minimum of 34 inches wide and should have levers instead of door knobs. The Americans with Disabilities Act requires a 5-foot turning radius for a wheelchair. But if space is tight, remodelers may be able to make do with less. "[The 5-foor turning radius] may not always be needed, especially with an electric chair, which will easily turn," Russell says.
Curbless shower stall. The shower stall should be at least five feet wide by three feet deep with no curb. If a client insists on a curb, use a rubber one that the chair can roll over. Most of Russell's clients transfer to a net shower chair with wheels, but a built-in shower seat is another possibility. Russell starts sloping the floor toward the drain six inches outside of the shower curtain--if there is a shower curtain at all. "Most European showers are open, and the same style is often used in high-end baths in the U.S.," he says.
Hand-held shower. Russell starts the slider bar for the shower hose and head four feet off the floor so that the head can slide up to six feet high. He always uses a shower valve that is thermostatically controlled and pressure-balanced to prevent his clients from scalds. If the client wants a full body wash, you can include a regular shower head as well. To avoid an institutional look, he recommends grab bars that are colored instead of chrome.
Clearance beneath the sink. Plan on 27 inches of clearance under the sink for the wheelchair. The top of the sink should be 32 to 34 inches off the floor. "A trap is available now that goes back toward the wall, or into the wall," Russell says. "The faucets can be fitted on the side of the sink to make them easier to reach. Or install infra-red faucets that detect motion. Hang the mirror low enough for a seated person to see themselves, and tip the top of the mirror out."
Toilet placement. Ideally, the toilet should be positioned between two support bars 36 inches apart. A toilet seat 17 inches off the floor is a more comfortable height for everyone, according to Russell. "If the client can afford it, get one of the newer combination toilet/bidets," he suggests.
Open storage. Russell likes to keep bathroom shelves open for easy access of towels, washcloths and soap--another feature that aids accessibility and also happens to be very stylish.
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