Shaw Accessible Shower, Oakland, California

♦ 2003 Category Winner, Most Accessible Remodel, Chrysalis Award

This bathroom won First Place in the national Chrysalis Awards for Best Acessible Remodel. The room was part of a larger renovation of a 1917 in-law cottage. Accessibility, good lighting, and easy maintenance were design goals. An open style shower was the accessibility solution. This means there is no curb between the shower area and the main floor (an additional benefit of this design is easy maintenance). A 3/4-height wall serves as a splash barrier for the hand-held shower. This short wall also allows light to pass from both windows and provides wall space for future grab bars should they be necessary. A bench is tucked into the corner of the shower for convenience. A generous wall-hung sink allows for easy cleaning below as well as for leg space should a wheelchair ever become necessary. Windows on two sides of the room provide lots of light and white 3" x 6" “subway” tile brighten the room and give a traditional bungalow look to the thoroughly modern room.