BATHROOMS AND SHOWERS A
s the average age of the population continues to rise, so too does the prevalence of multigenerational living. This shift is reshaping the way we think about bathroom design. For designers and retailers, the challenge lies in creating spaces that are safe, stylish, and functional for users of all ages and abilities. The family bathroom, in particular, must accommodate a wide range of requirements, from toddlers to grandparents, without compromising on aesthetics.
New technology
Technology is rapidly transforming the bathroom landscape. Designers now have access to a suite of smart products that enhance comfort and usability across generations. These include contactless sensor mirrors, intuitively controlled taps and shower toilets with advanced hygiene features. Understanding the current and future needs of the household is essential. While baths may be ideal for young children, walk-in showers offer safer access for older adults. Planning is key.
Brands must work in harmony with retailers as they guide consumers through both product selection and layout planning. It’s not just about choosing the right fixtures—it’s about ensuring the space works for everyone. Regular collaboration with architects ensures that infrastructure and personal needs are aligned from the outset, and safety starts from the ground up. Non-slip flooring and grab bars are essential in multigenerational bathrooms.
Duravit’s Sustano Shower Tray Dark Grey Matt
BATHROOMS ARE FOR EVERYONE
Oliver Stanley asks what bathroom manufacturers are doing to address accessibility issues, allowing everyone to use the bathroom with privacy and dignity.
07_Shower+Bath by Duravit AKW Arka Cool Touch Mixer Valve
Adaptability is also crucial. For example, the shower bath combination by EOOS for Duravit merges the comfort of a bathtub with the accessibility of a walk-in shower. Its integrated glass door transforms the bath into a shower space, with a safety lock and waterproof cushion that doubles as a seat—ideal for users with limited mobility.
As well as adaptable designs, ease of use is paramount. Gesture-activated brassware and app-controlled shower systems simplify operation for all age groups.
Accessibility through design Stuart Reynolds, UK marketing and product management director at AKW, the provider of inclusive solutions, says there are various things to bear in mind when looking to help customers create cost-efficient accessible bathrooms:
“Strategic planning - Initial designs need to 40
prioritise accessibility from the outset to avoid expensive retrofitting. If possible, the use of standardised layouts, with modular bathroom components is worth considering across properties to reduce material and labour costs,” says.
However, Reynolds points out that this only works up to a point as each person’s accessibility needs will differ, so there could be a need for anti-slip flooring, lever taps and toilet flushes, electric showers with easy-to-use buttons and dials and TRV regulation. Also, he adds that the layout of the bathroom should be optimised, so that it is functional, meeting minimum requirements for turning circles and fixture placement.
“Regulatory compliance – Meeting Doc M Building Regulations is fundamental to ensuring that an accessible bathroom meets access standards for the user, be that a turning circle of 1500mm for wheelchair users, specific height
www.buildersmerchantsjournal.net October 2025
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