Creating beautiful, inviting, and accessible bathrooms

In the United Kingdom, the design of accessible bathrooms in care homes has long been overlooked, with spaces that are overwhelmingly functional, starkly clinical, and often sorely outdated. This lack of attention to aesthetics in bathroom design not only diminishes the dignity and comfort of residents, but can also negatively impact their mental health and overall wellbeing. This is especially troubling when considering the vulnerable residents who rely on these spaces daily. As people transition from their homes to care facilities, the environment plays a crucial role in helping them adjust to their new surroundings. The bathroom — place of personal hygiene and privacy — should be a sanctuary that eases this transition, not an additional source of discomfort.

Numerous studies have shown that the physical environment plays a critical role in mental health, influencing emotions, behaviour, and overall wellbeing. In care homes, where residents often experience a loss of autonomy, the environment becomes even more crucial. Yet, many care home bathrooms are sterile, impersonal, and purely functional spaces that can exacerbate feelings of anxiety, depression, and isolation.

When residents move into care homes, they are often navigating unprecedented changes — leaving behind familiar surroundings, routines, and in many cases, a lifetime of memories associated with their home. The bathroom — a space used multiple times a day for personal care — should be a place where residents feel safe, comfortable, and at ease. The overwhelming focus on compliance and practicality often leads to bathrooms that are drab and generic, which can negatively impact a resident's state of mind. Environments that are cold, clinical, and unattractive can cause feelings of alienation and discomfort. For care home residents, who may already be dealing with physical limitations and the emotional toll of transitioning to a new living situation, a poorly designed bathroom can add to their sense of loss and decrease their quality of life.