Modern Master Bath for Aging-In-Place

Fortunate to live in a home created by the famous architectural designer Avriel Shull, when this ‘70s bath flooded, the owners, who appreciate modern design, decided to bring me in since I’d already designed their kitchen. Cramped and dated, it had been divided into three small rooms, with the obligatory jetted tub that hadn’t been used in years. The couple, a vast height difference between them, desired a space to meet their every need.

The only natural light came from the skylight. At the owners’ suggestion, we placed a large window in the shower to view the beautifully private wooded lot, but high enough that should a trespasser happen by, nothing was revealed. We contemplated using electronic auto-opaque film, but decided the technology isn’t ready for long term wet locations. Another window went in the toilet room, and the ceiling was vaulted to create more spaciousness.

We added two linen closets, a curbless shower with a wide enough door that could be removed should walker or wheelchair access be needed, and added solid blocking in all areas that might require grab bars. Varying vanities for the vertically challenged partner complete with sit-down makeup area, heated floor, and a towel warmer completed the transformation.