Universal design is a great approach to designing a home that makes it easier to live in when mobility can be a factor. It includes commonplace options like single level living, wider doorways and halls, and other features to allow families to remain in their homes longer. Bathrooms can offer specific challenges, but when universal design is added to the mix, your master bath can meet your needs—and look beautiful— for many years to come.
Dangerous Bathrooms
Bathrooms are among the most hazardous areas of the home for injury— for people of all ages! No matter what age you 
are, the most dangerous household activities are bathing, showering and getting out of the tub or shower, according to the Center for Disease Control. A small percentage of injuries occur while getting into the tub or shower, but almost one in ten injuries occur while getting out. Two-thirds of emergency room visits overall are the result of injuries in or near the bathtub or shower!
Keep it Simple and Safe
Some simple design choices can make navigating the master bath easy for everyone. For example, selecting a stylish commode that also meets ADA guidelines for height is an easy and inexpensive option. If your master bath features a soaking tub, build in a wide ledge to make sitting to enter and exit the tub easy, with plenty of grab bars within easy reach.
Easy Showering
Showers can also include a universal design element. We love American Standard’s Spectra+Fixed Four Function Shower Head, a water efficient option, which offers four different spray settings from gentle soaking to an invigorating massage. The nifty adjust feature allows the user to change the spray two ways: with a touch on the rim of the shower head, or using a wall mounted remote control. This allows a seated shower user better control over the shower spray without needing to stand to reach the shower head.
Another universal design option for the master is a no-threshold shower. These make it easy to roll in and out, avoiding having to step over even a tiny lip to access the shower. Add a built-in bench to allow for sitting or standing. No-threshold showers are beautiful and functional and will add value to your log home.