Closomat multi-generational bathroom guide

Insurance company Aviva forecasts that the number of households containing two or more families will rise from 1.5 million to 2.2 million by 2025. The study also anticipates 3.8 million people aged between 21 and 34 will be Iiving with their parents – a third more than at present. That’s a lot of shared bathrooms!

A little thought in the bathroom design can create a stylish facility that everyone in the home can use. Not just now, but with time. Regardless of each family member’s health.

1. Colour: Adding a splash of colour makes it a bright, cheerful space. If anyone has sight issues, it helps them distinguish specific areas/fixtures. It could be choice of tiles. Choose coloured fixtures and accessories.
2. Lighting: It needs to be a relaxing space, but we need to see what we’re doing, whether it’s applying make-up or a night-time toilet trip.
3. Bathroom vs wetroom: Older people often struggle to get in and out of a bath. What about the concept of a wetroom? The shower can be used by all. No need to allow for shower tray, nor screening (full or half-height). If/when needed, a shower seat can be fitted, that discreetly folds away when not required. If space allows, there can still be a bath for the children.
4. The WC: We ‘go’ on average eight times a day. A wash and dry toilet with its integrated douching and drying ensures everyone is hygienically, consistently clean. No risk of little ones or more frail older ones not wiping properly… The height can be set to suit too: wall-hung can be set at the optimum for the occupants; floor-mounted can be raised if needed with a plinth, and some can be accessorised to accommodate changing needs, with different operating devices, support options, douche options, and seats.
5. Hoists: There may be a situation where a member of the household needs lifting. A ceiling track x/y hoist provides a discreet solution that enables easy transfer to any point within the room – and, depending on the configuration – to other areas of the home. When not in use, the transfer bar is parked out of the way. Even if the ceiling is not strong enough to support the load, slimline gantry legs give the strength, almost invisibly.
6. The washbasin: Set close enough to the WC that it can be used to give support if needed – assuming the wall is appropriately load-bearing. Height adjustable options mean it can be lowered or raised to the best level for each user.