FMJ Facilities Management magazine providing industry-specific intelligence to FM and property professionals
When facilities managers are planning for a bathroom refit, accessibility will be on the agenda of course, it has to be by law, but it might not be at the forefront of their design agenda.
Yet accessible bathrooms are essential in all premises, so why should their design and aesthetic be compromised? Why should they be substandard and not have the same beautiful finishes as the standard bathrooms often do?
Of course, practicality has to come first. The correct spacing, the right height and ease of use are the first things that have to be considered. But, when it comes to design, the standard, rather boring white or blue grab rails and handrails can be upgraded to something which looks and feels much more inspired.
Brands like Hewi have shaken up the accessible market and are designing for the person, as well as for the practicalities needed. Finally, we’re starting to see elegant, slimline designs over bulky and medical-looking items.
And this is across the whole range of what’s needed in an accessible bathroom. From sleek grab rails through to foldaway shower seats and even taps and basins which look inspired and chic.
Facilities Managers who invest in creating a bespoke accessible space that’s inviting to users can benefit not just happier customers, but those who will share their experiences online. Disabled forums, online groups and of course social media allow for users to share their experiences of different venues. Were their access requirements met, were they clean and did they make them feel included.
By going above and beyond to create a space which is both practical and inviting, users will feel part of the overall aesthetic of the venue.
Simple changes like matt black or chrome support rails over the standard white or blue. Stylish accessible taps which match the grab rails and a basin which is the perfect height yet looks effortlessly stylist all help to elevate the space and make it inviting.
Adding warmer tones to the paint also helps to make the space more inviting. Yes, the space needs to be practical, and easy to clean and sanitise, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a colour on the walls that compliments the new chic taps over lifeless white.
Colour is one thing which has long been missing from accessible bathrooms. The standard white box with white or blue accessories and sanitary wear was cold and uninviting. The introduction of colour in grab rails, taps and even accents on basins is bringing life and warmth into accessible spaces.
Even seating has thankfully become slim and stylish over bulky. Fold away seats can now easily be mounted to walls and take up far less space than their traditional counterparts.
It’s important to remember that you’re designing a space for a person. While Facilities Managers are required by law to create accessible spaces for all, it’s also wise to note that going above what’s required, to deliver what’s desired, can really have a great and positive impact on a business.
Derek Aaronson, CEO of Hart Home Group
Derek Aaronson is the CEO of Hart Home Group, the umbrella company for three retail websites; NotJustTaps, Lime Kitchen and Bathroom and Hart Plumbing Spares. Derek set up the business nearly 15 years ago and it is has since been a fast-growing company, that’s passionate about handwashing solutions.
Supplying bathroom and kitchen sanitaryware for a huge range of domestic, commercial and medical settings, Hart Home’s clients range from hotels and schools to dental surgeries and vets, while their products include designer fittings as well as home and hospital equipment for people with safety and mobility issues.
Derek has had a successful career working in the bathroom business his entire working life, both on the distribution side and now on the retail side. In the early 80s he set up Laconite Plastics which became one of the leading bathroom brands at the time.
For more information visit https://harthomegroup.co.uk/.
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