Accessible home design has come a long way. Pottery Barn has recently introduced a new product line that will help homebuilders move past clunky accessibility elements of the past into more stylish, on-trend designs.
And they’re right on time.
The U.S. population is aging. When the youngest Baby Boomers reached 55 in 2017, the “seniors” cohort reach 29% of the U.S. population, and it’s been growing ever since. Home design elements and home products can help seniors age in place – live independently in their homes for as long as possible.
But accessible design isn’t just for seniors. According to the Centers for Disease Control, 13.7% of Americans have a mobility-related disability—serious difficulty walking or climbing stairs. And that doesn’t include those who face temporary mobility challenges due to an accident or illness each year.
The thing is, getting older or having a disability – whether permanent or temporary – does not mean a person has given up their taste in home decor. So, it’s no surprise that retailers are stepping up to the challenge of making homes more accessible with products that fit into modern design trends. Pottery Barn is the latest to join the effort with their Accessible Home Collection. Featuring furniture, lighting, tableware and more, the Accessible Home Collection gathers ADA-compliant elements into one easy-to-shop location.
The bathroom is one part of the home where those with limited mobility will struggle, and Pottery Barn comes to the rescue with 36-inch bathroom vanities, a perfect wheelchair-compliant height and an open under-sink design. An example is The Clarence, which Pottery Barn describes as an updated apothecary-style console with straight lines and squared corners. Durable steel frames and Italian Carrera marble create a sturdy design that is not only light and airy but also comfortable for wheelchair users or those who struggle to stand.
Complementary tilt mirrors, lever-handled faucets and ADA-compliant lighting fixtures complete the look while remaining easy to use. Coordinating grab bars for showers or toilet areas introduce style where mobility-challenged people have had to settle for large, round, silver metal bars in the past.
Meeting the growing demand for home offices, the Accessible Home Collection includes desks, too. Not only wheelchair accessible, the workspaces also feature open shelving that makes it easy to organize and reach books, files, baskets or supplies.
Additional products in the Accessible Home Collection address most areas of the home. Power lift recliners, available in leather and with heat or massage options, make relaxing more comfortable – and getting up afterward easier, too! Melamine dishes provide beautiful, lightweight and non-breakable table settings. Non-slip rugs add safety and style to any area of the home. Adjustable desks and beds make everyday living a little easier for those with disabilities or recovering from injuries.
Visit www.potterybarn.com/shop/new/accessible-home/ to view the full collection.