BATHROOMS AND SHOWERS
Duravit’s ME by Starck Hero Edition
grab rails or sanitaryware etc. It is also worth bearing in mind BS 8300-2:2018 Standards that go beyond minimum compliance and help create spaces that are genuinely usable for individuals with disabilities,” Reynolds says. “Careful choice of materials – choosing materials that are durable as well as suitable for the user is key. Easy wins in this area include the installation of non-slip vinyl flooring that is durable and affordable and reduces the risk of slips, moisture-resistant wall panels instead of tiles, which are cost-effective and easy to clean and corrosion-resistant grab rails that are low-maintenance. Also incorporating water-efficient fixtures, such as
AKW’s Sruart Reynolds says that using contrasting shades of the same colour better aids improving visibility
Duravit’s_02_Shower+Bath
lower flow electric showers, have sustainable as well as running-cost benefits.” He says that the company has worked with occupational therapists to create many accessible bathroom ‘How to…’ guides over the years. “For example, grab rails and shower seats with arm rests promote safer movement. For those with visual impairments it’s an idea to use two colours where the light reflective value (LRV) difference between both
colours is greater than 30. This creates the most noticeable contrast between an object and its surroundings. Our grab rails and shower seats are available in a range of colours to aid those with visual impairments.” He adds that colour contrast is best achieved with contrasting shades of the same colour rather than different colours.
Showering success
Reynolds says that shower controls need to be simple to understand and easy to use – and if needed, to use with one hand operation. There should also be obvious up and down buttons for temperature and flow control. “It’s a god idea to look for BEAB Care certified or approved by the Royal National Institute for the Blind (RNIB) showers. This is because they will reduce barriers to use for those with mobility or visual impairment issues.” Alongside the functionality and look of the space, wall panels achieve a high value appearance for considerably less than the cost of tiling. The Colourways from AKW’s Alveo PVC and Marlbrook ranges enables a non- clinical finish to be obtained. They are also easy to maintain and can be fitted quickly using a standard toolkit, reducing bathroom downtime, and saving on using a specialist tiler. Reynolds says: “When it comes to creating cost efficient accessible bathrooms that are Part M compliant and meet the needs of the users, design is vital. However, with the right choice of fixtures and fittings, it is possible to create functional, long-lasting spaces that are cost- effective as well as looking good.” BMJ
October 2025
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