Designing a Safe, Stylish Bathroom for Aging in Place

The Challenge

The original bathroom layout presented a number of obstacles. The shower stall was a cramped 32” x 32” and the oversized soaking tub took up valuable space at 48” x 72”. The polished marble tile flooring, while elegant, was dangerously slippery. Fortunately, the plumbing could be moved thanks to the unfinished crawl space below—but the existing walls had to stay.

Time and budget were both tight. The husband was in rehab recovering from his fall, and the family wanted him to return to a home that felt both welcoming and safe. At the same time, the homeowners didn’t want to give up the calming ritual of a warm bath, especially for the wife, who relied on it as part of her self-care routine.

The Solution

Meeting all of these needs required some creative thinking.  We reimagined the layout by reallocating space from the oversized tub to make room for a larger, more accessible shower. To preserve the bathing experience, we installed a walk-in tub from Ella’s Bubbles—easy to enter and exit, without losing the comfort they loved.

To address safety concerns:

• We replaced the slippery marble with slip-resistant flooring.
• We used contrasting colors to improve depth perception—an easy but impactful step toward aging in place.
• Lever handles were selected for the plumbing fixtures to ensure ease of use, even when hand strength or mobility is reduced
• We used Wet Wall on the walls to make cleaning easier and ensure a healthier bathroom environment with their anti-microbial design.

The result? A safe, stylish bathroom that doesn’t feel institutional—one that honors both beauty and practicality.

Plan Ahead for a Forever Home

Whether you’re facing an urgent situation or simply thinking about the future, planning for aging in place doesn’t mean compromising on design. Small, thoughtful choices can make a big difference:

• Add smart tech features like touchless faucets or voice-controlled lighting.
• Consider moisture sensors in areas that may become harder to access as you age.
• Choose finishes and layouts that can evolve with your needs overtime

Let’s Talk About Your Next Chapter

If you’re considering a renovation in a home you plan to stay in for the long haul, now is the time to think about how small changes can support your future comfort and safety. Let’s explore how we can make your house your forever home—without sacrificing the personal touches you love.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about accessible design solutions that work beautifully now and for years to come.