I’m currently working on a project that’s been both eye-opening and deeply rewarding: designing a handicapped-accessible bathroom in a private residence. This goes far beyond checking boxes on a code compliance list — it’s about creating a space where every person feels seen, respected, and truly comfortable in their own home.
To ensure no detail was overlooked, I collaborated with a specialist architect who focuses on accessibility. Together, we thoughtfully considered every element: the precise placement of grab bars, a sink design that allows for easy wheelchair access, and clearances that ensure effortless movement throughout the space.
As we grow older — or as we care for aging parents, loved ones with disabilities, or even experience unexpected shifts in our own mobility — it becomes clear how important thoughtful, accessible design really is. It’s not just about function; it’s about dignity, independence, and feeling safe and supported in the place we call home.
That’s why we’ve taken care to align the design with the principles of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) — a landmark civil rights law that protects individuals with disabilities and provides clear guidelines for creating spaces that are safe, navigable, and inclusive. But for me, this goes far beyond legal requirements. It’s about designing with empathy and foresight, knowing that accessibility serves all of us, not just some of us.
What’s equally important is that accessibility should never mean compromising on beauty. Our environments shape how we feel — and everyone deserves to live in a space that uplifts them, both functionally and aesthetically. Beauty has the power to restore, to comfort, and to empower. When thoughtful design meets inclusive thinking, we create environments that are not only usable, but soulful and nurturing.
What I’ve learned through this process is powerful — accessibility and beauty are not mutually exclusive. In fact, thoughtful functionality can elevate design, making it more meaningful and lasting. It’s been a touching and transformative reminder that good design is about people, not just places.
In this article, I’m sharing an elevation drawing of the sink wall so you can see not just the progress, but also how we’ve married functionality with thoughtful design. I’ll continue to share more updates and behind-the-scenes glimpses of the project in future newsletters — so stay tuned!
My hope is that this inspires others to see inclusive design not as a limitation, but as an opportunity — one filled with creativity, heart, and deeper purpose.
