Planning a home renovation is always exciting, but there’s more to consider than just aesthetics. Making your space accessible is a forward-thinking decision that can help your home serve you well into the future. Whether you’re planning to age gracefully in your current home or expecting elderly relatives to join you, incorporating accessibility features can make your living space more comfortable, functional, and inclusive.
Here’s our guide to planning an accessibility-focused renovation, with key considerations and practical tips.
Start With Accessibility in Mind
Renovations focused on accessibility aren’t just for the present; they’re investments for the future. Even if mobility isn’t currently a concern, thinking ahead can save time and money down the line. Ask yourself:
- Would a wheelchair or mobility scooter fit comfortably in the hallways and doorways?
- Is the bathroom adaptable enough to support aids like grab bars or bath hoists?
- Can the kitchen be designed to allow easy access to counters, appliances, or storage?
By planning for potential mobility challenges from the start, you can create a home that evolves with your needs.
Create a Wide and Welcoming Layout
Hallways and Doorways
One of the most common challenges for accessibility is narrow hallways and doorways. Standard doors are often too tight for wheelchairs or walkers to pass through comfortably. Aim for doorways to be at least 800mm wide, with wider hallways to prevent a cramped feeling.
Consider installing pocket doors or swing-free hinges to maximise space without compromising accessibility. Lever handles are a stylish and practical alternative to traditional doorknobs, as they’re easier to operate.
Open Floor Plans
A seamless open-plan design is ideal for accessibility. Reducing unnecessary walls and transitions between rooms creates a free flowing environment that’s easy to move through with mobility aids. Make sure the flooring is slip-resistant and smooth, with minimal thresholds or changes in height.
Adapt Your Bathroom for Easy Use
The family bathroom is likely to be a key spot for enhancing accessibility. Moving freely in a conventional bathroom can be tricky for anyone with reduced mobility, so plan ahead for extra space and convenient features.
Walk-In Showers
A walk-in or curbless shower with a non-slip base is a great addition for accessibility. These showers eliminate the need to step over a tub edge, making them safer and easier to use. Include a shower seat, handheld shower head, and grab bars for additional support.
Grab Bars and Hoist Compatibility
Place grab bars near the toilet and in the shower to assist with manoeuvring. Pro tip: Choose grab bars with a sleek, polished design to make them both functional and stylish. If bath hoists might be necessary in the future, ensure there’s adequate space around the tub or shower to install one.
Raised Toilets and Sinks
Consider installing a raised toilet seat or an adjustable-height option for ease of use. Similarly, wall-mounted sinks without cabinets beneath them provide better clearance for wheelchairs.
Accessibility in the Bedroom
The bedroom should feel like a sanctuary, and accessibility features can help maintain that cosy, calming environment.
Space Around the Bed
Ensure there’s enough room around the bed for mobility aids, with at least 900mm of clearance on each side. This provides sufficient space for walkers, wheelchairs, or carers to assist when needed.
Adjustable Beds
While traditional beds are fine for now, think ahead and choose frames that can accommodate adjustable beds. Bed raisers can also add height to make getting in and out easier.
Wardrobe Accessibility
Opt for wardrobes with sliding doors and pull-down hanging rails to allow easy access without overreaching. Lower drawers and shelves are also ideal for storing everyday essentials within easy reach.
Consider Your Kitchen Layout
An accessible kitchen isn’t just functional; it’s a place where everyone can come together and feel empowered to participate in daily life.
Counter Height and Storage
For wheelchair accessibility, counters should be no higher than 850mm. Additionally, ensure there’s ample space underneath the counters for leg clearance. Deep pull-out drawers are an excellent replacement for traditional cabinets, as they allow users to reach items without difficulty.
Appliances
Choose appliances with front-facing controls and install ovens and dishwashers at waist height to minimise bending. Induction cooktops are a safer choice thanks to their cool-to-the-touch surfaces.
Outdoor Accessibility
Don’t forget the exterior of your home! Accessible design applies outside as well as in.
Ramps or Step-Free Entrances
Replace steps with ramps or ensure there’s at least one step-free entrance to the home. Make sure the gradient of the ramp complies with accessibility regulations.
Pathways and Garden Access
Wide, even pathways allow ease of movement for wheelchairs and mobility scooters. Raised garden beds can make outdoor hobbies more accessible and enjoyable.
Lighting and Safety
Install adequate exterior lighting to ensure pathways and doorways remain visible and safe during the evenings. Automatic or motion-sensor lights add an extra layer of convenience.
Building Amenities for Community Spaces
If the renovation involves shared or communal areas, don’t forget to consider accessibility in these spaces as well. Areas like family rooms or dining spaces can benefit from wider entryways, smart home integrations, and modular seating layouts.
Think Green and Sustainable
Many sustainable options align well with accessibility features. For example, cork flooring is not only eco-friendly but also soft underfoot and slip-resistant. Likewise, large windows with easy-to-operate mechanisms provide natural lighting and align with both sustainable and accessible design principles.
Enlist the Help of Professionals
While DIY ideas are great, an accessibility-focused renovation often calls for expert guidance. Architects, occupational therapists, and contractors with experience in accessible design can ensure your project meets both your immediate and future needs.
They can also help you navigate building codes and regulations around accessibility, ensuring your home updates are both practical and compliant.
Your Home, Your Future
Making your home accessible is as much about practicality as it is about creating a space of comfort and joy for yourself and your loved ones. Whether you’re planning for the years ahead or accommodating family members now, these thoughtful renovations are steps toward a truly inclusive home.
Accessibility doesn’t mean sacrificing style. With careful planning, your home can remain as beautiful as it is functional. Take this opportunity to future-proof your space and create a haven you’ll love forever.