5 Ways Accessible Bathroom Mirrors Can Improve Mobility-Friendly Bathrooms

by mobilityplus | 19th Nov, 2024 | Inspiration

Creating a welcoming and inclusive bathroom is essential for everyone, especially for those with mobility challenges. Accessible bathroom mirrors play a vital role in achieving this goal. These specially designed mirrors not only enhance functionality but also contribute to the overall aesthetics of mobility-friendly bathrooms. 

By considering mirror placement for accessibility and incorporating thoughtful designs, you can ensure that everyone feels comfortable and independent in their bathroom space. Here are five useful ways mirrors can improve accessibility in mobility-friendly bathrooms!

1. Adjustable Mirrors for Height Variation

One of the most significant considerations in mobility bathroom designs is accommodating people of different heights, particularly wheelchair users. Adjustable mirrors can be a game-changer! These mirrors can be mounted on hinges or sliding mechanisms, allowing users to change the height easily. This flexibility means that you can check your reflection without straining or needing assistance, promoting independence.

Adjustable mirrors offer multiple advantages. They can be tilted or rotated, providing a clear view whether you are seated or standing. This adaptability is essential for everyone who may have difficulty reaching standard mirror heights. With an adjustable mirror, you can feel confident and empowered when using the bathroom. When considering adjustable mirrors, placement is a key consideration. Ideally, you should install them near areas people are typically accustomed to, such as above sinks or dressing areas. Ensure the mechanism is easy to operate, allowing you to make adjustments effortlessly.

2. Low-Placement Mirrors

Mirror placement for accessibility is crucial in ensuring that you can use the bathroom comfortably. Installing mirrors at a lower height can greatly enhance usability for seated individuals, such as wheelchair users. The bottom edge of the mirror should ideally be no more than 40 inches from the floor, providing a clear view without the need to stretch or bend.

By lowering the mirror height, you can make your bathroom more inclusive. It allows those who may have difficulty standing to see their reflections easily. This small change can make a significant difference in promoting self-sufficiency and confidence in personal grooming and hygiene routines. In addition to functionality, consider the design elements of the mirror. A low-placed mirror can be framed in a way that complements the overall bathroom décor; this ensures that accessibility doesn’t compromise style, creating a beautiful and functional space.

3. Lighting Enhancements with Mirrors

Proper lighting is essential in any bathroom, but it’s especially crucial for accessible bathroom mirrors. Good lighting helps you see your reflection clearly, which is particularly important for people with visual impairments or anyone needing extra light for grooming tasks. 

Mirrors with integrated LED lights offer consistent brightness, since the lights are positioned in such a way to eliminate shadows and provide even illumination. For those of you who require precise grooming, such as shaving or applying makeup, proper lighting is a game changer. LED mirrors can also be a great way to make a smaller bathroom feel larger, alongside flooring and wallpaper designs. 

Some mirrors come with adjustable lighting features, allowing you to change brightness levels based on your needs. This is particularly beneficial for those who may require different lighting conditions for various tasks. By providing well-lit, flexible options, you can create a supportive environment that enhances safety and usability.

4. Mirrors with Anti-Fog Features

Bathrooms can fill up with steam, especially after a hot shower. Anti-fog mirrors are a fantastic addition to any mobility-friendly bathroom, as they prevent your mirrors from steaming up so much you can’t see anything in them. This feature is incredibly beneficial for anyone who requires frequent self-care routines. 

With an anti-fog mirror, you can see yourself clearly, even in a humid environment. This enhances independence, allowing you to manage your grooming without needing to wipe down the mirror repeatedly. It’s a simple yet effective way to improve usability in the bathroom. When selecting an anti-fog mirror, ensure it’s easy to install and maintain. Many modern anti-fog mirrors come with built-in heating elements that keep the glass clear. Look for models with straightforward controls that you can operate without hassle. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the surface, will help maintain its functionality.

5. Mirrors with Integrated Storage Solutions

Last but not least, accessible bathroom mirrors can also be designed with integrated storage solutions, which are incredibly helpful for those with mobility challenges. Mirrors that feature shelves or compartments allow you to keep essential grooming items within easy reach. This design minimises the need to bend or stretch to access toiletries, improving overall safety and comfort.

By providing a place to store items like toothbrushes, razors and skincare products, these mirrors can streamline daily routines. Individuals can quickly grab what they need without the hassle of searching through drawers or cabinets. This level of accessibility can significantly empower individuals to take charge of their personal care.

When designing a bathroom, consider customising storage solutions that fit the specific needs of the users. Shelves can be adjusted in height or depth, ensuring that everyone can access their items comfortably. By integrating storage into the mirror design, you create a seamless and functional bathroom experience.

Incorporating accessible bathroom mirrors into mobility-friendly designs can greatly enhance usability and the overall aesthetic of these spaces. By focusing on adjustable features, optimal placement, integrated lighting, anti-fog capabilities, and built-in storage, you can create an inviting environment that meets the diverse needs of all its users!

For more insights into creating accessible bathrooms, visit Mobility Plus for expert advice and innovative ideas. Whether you’re considering a renovation or simply looking to enhance your existing space, there are numerous options available to create a welcoming environment for everyone. In addition, if you’re interested in keeping your bathroom clean and functional, check out this article on easy bathroom cleaning.

With thoughtful design choices and a focus on accessibility, we can ensure that mobility-friendly bathrooms are not just functional but also beautiful and supportive spaces for all individuals. By integrating these thoughtful mirror solutions, you can make a significant impact on the overall accessibility and comfort of your bathroom, ensuring that it serves the needs of everyone who uses it.

11 Bathroom Accessories Ideas For The Ultimate Bathroom Glam

by Joel Griffiths | 28th Oct, 2024 | Inspiration

11 Modern Bathroom Ideas To Revamp Your Space

by Joel Griffiths | 17th Oct, 2024 | Inspiration

Nowadays, even bathrooms are getting a makeover from just being useful spots to fab spots that mix cool looks with being handy. If you’re thinking of making your bathroom all trendy, you have to look at the freshest styles and ideas that can take your bathroom to the next level. We’re talking about things like bathroom fixtures and top-notch showers. Here’s a peek at some handy modern bathroom ideas for a redo.

1. Combo Bathroom Fixtures

Are you thinking about a stylish bathroom? Well, the idea of mixed bathroom pieces is getting pretty big. Picture this—all the key parts, like a toilet, vanity, and sink, are all rolled into one fancy unit. Not only do you save space, but it also makes your bathroom look classy. People love these modern bathroom ideas because they’re smart and look sharp, so they’re all the rage in modern baths.

2. Counter Top Basins

People love countertop sinks in their bathrooms. They add a fancy vibe and make the place look amazing. You can find them in many materials, like ceramic, glass, and stone, which match up well with taps that come out of the wall. They’re adaptable and look great, so many people opt for such modern bathroom ideas.

3. Whirlpool Spa Baths

Whirlpool spa baths hit the spot for people who want that spa vibe without leaving their house. They come with all the jacuzzi and massage features to make you relaxed. These baths look smooth in your bathroom and match the sleek style. Plus, they pump up the luxury. Your bathroom turns into this calm hideout, which is incredible.

4. Illuminated Bathroom Mirrors

Bright lights are key in any bathroom, and light-up mirrors hit two birds with one stone, giving you light and style. You can find them in different shapes and sizes, and they bring your bathroom to life. Not to mention, they’re handy and help keep things organised. 

5. Double Sink Vanity Units

Double-sink vanity units bring the wow factor and are super practical, making them a cool pick for couples or family members sharing the space. Their eye-catching design, when they shine in high gloss, brings elegance to the area.

If you’re dealing with a tight space, hanging a single vanity on the wall is a sharp move—it looks sleek and works well in the room. Go for a twin sink or just the one, and you’ll step up the fashion and usefulness of your bathing area.

6. Luxury Shower Cabins

Looking for a top-dollar spa vibe in your shower? Luxury shower cabins are your ticket. They come with cool features like steam modes, rain-style shower tops, and body jets for a serious massage. 

7. Waterfall Mono Basin Mixer Tap

Basin taps rank high on the list of modern bathroom ideas. They lift the room’s vibe, are refreshing to see, and turn the bathroom into something special, giving it a calm centre of attention that boosts the whole layout.

8. Vertical Panel Radiators

If you’re hunting for a modern chic vibe, vertical panel radiators bring some fashionable flair in place of the usual heaters. You might give up a bit of handiness for looks, but these radiators dish out plenty of warmth, making sure your bathroom stays cosy. 

9. Soft Close Toilet Seats

Soft, close toilet seats deliver both function and style, finishing your bathroom’s contemporary vibe. They stop that noisy bang, bringing a whisper of sophistication to your restroom. It also added safety by preventing accidental slamming on a finger. A practical choice for households with children.

10. Bluetooth Bathroom Mirrors

Bluetooth bathroom mirrors are giving people a slick vibe. These cool mirrors feature speakers and can sync up with devices, so you can groove to tunes, catch podcasts, or dive into audiobooks while sprucing up. They’re not just about looks – they’re handy and add a modern kick to the everyday get-ready grind.

11. Statement Tiles

Transform your bathroom into an art piece with statement tiles that bring in personality, colour, and texture. Go for those bold patterns, mosaic pieces, or geometric shapes, and textured surfaces. These tiles give you a canvas to show off your style and leave a strong mark.

How to choose towel storage?

When choosing towel storage for modern bathrooms, consider the following tips:

Space-saving Solutions

• Shelves on the wall: They’re a hit in current bathrooms, since you can save on floor space and give you that tidy bare look. This design goes well with all themes.
• Shelves that hang in mid-air: These shelves are cool for storing towels. They look like they’re floating, which makes the bathroom seem bigger. It also saves on vertical space.

Sleek and Minimalist Design

• Straight edges: Better go for towel holders with straight edges and easy designs. They match the simple vibes of modern-day bathrooms.
• Muted shades: Storage shelves in mute colours, like white, black, or steel, keep everything looking sharp and modern. It also makes your bathroom look brighter.

Functional Storage

• Think about how many towels you have to stash: Pick a spot to keep them where they won’t make the place look all messy but can hold all you need.
• Throw in different ways to store them: Get creative with a mix of towel hangers, hooks, shelves, and cupboards so you’ve got room for all sorts and sizes of towels.

Materials

• Stainless steel: This material is a hit in today’s bathrooms because it’s tough, looks smooth, and doesn’t lose its look when it gets wet.
• Chrome: If you’re after that sparkly, up-to-date vibe, a chrome finish will make your bathroom look sharp and match its modern feel.
• Glass: When you’ve got glass shelves or racks, you’re looking at a neat see-through place to put your towels that also brings a bit of fanciness to the room.

Multi-functional Pieces

• Choose towel racks with hooks to hang not just towels but also bathrobes. This makes the most of the storage piece.
• Go for towel holders that mix shelves, cabinets, and hooks for a multi-use approach in a neat, space-saving way.

Consider the Overall Design

• Go for a matching look: Pick towel holders that go well with the bathroom’s design, like the fixtures, knobs, and decorations.
• Aim for visual unity: Pick storage options that add to the bathroom’s modern unified look but don’t drown out the other design parts.

Crafting a modern bathroom is all about blending style with function, turning it into a haven where you can chill out and feel a bit fancy. Toss in cool accessories like LED-lit mirrors, those neat floating shelves, eye-catching tiles, and storage you can tweak to your liking, and you’re taking your bathroom game to the next level of chic and cosy. 

Each bathroom piece makes your space look like it all fits together and makes it yours, a spot where you can kick back and relax. Dive into these modern bathroom ideas to shape a bathroom that’s not just handy but also amps up your life and keeps you feeling good. Let your creativity loose as you start turning your bathroom into a place that’s all about your vibe and feel.

13 small bathroom wallpaper ideas to add some flair to your space

by Joel Griffiths | 18th Sep, 2024 | Inspiration

Wallpaper is a fun way to inject a sprinkle of personality into a smaller space. Embrace your playful side with bold prints that act like artwork on your walls or create an elegant environment with a pared-back design that accentuates your bathroom’s unique features. 

No matter your taste, there are endless wallpaper designs out there to suit any style. In this article, we’re showcasing just how versatile wallpaper can be with our 13 small bathroom wallpaper ideas.

1. Beachside vibes

Evoke the feeling of being outdoors with a coastal design. Bring your room to life with turquoise seahorses against a warm white background or choose colourful seashells against baby blue, transporting your bathroom to the seaside. 

Your bathroom might not win any awards for the biggest room but it will certainly be a crowd-pleaser with beach lovers.

2. Get tropical

Distract attention away from the size of your room with a tropical print. Using colourful and bright patterns, draw guests’ eyes away from your smaller space and add some contrasting finishing touches to tie your daring look together.

3. Expand space with geometric patterns

Geometric patterned wallpaper is a great option for wallpaper ideas for small bathrooms and can add some depth to your smaller space. Go big with your theme and pair your chosen pattern with vibrant colours for an unforgettable finish or tone things down with a more neutral colour scheme. Be careful not to overdo things and opt for subtle accessories to balance your overall design.

4. Embrace nature’s calming qualities

Wallpaper prints which incorporate the great outdoors are one simple way to elicit a feeling of space and openness. Synonymous with being free, even if your space is smaller, wallpaper designs centred around being outside can bring that sense of freedom into your home.

5. Split your space

A popular trend in small bathroom wallpaper ideas is using your wallpaper to split your room in half. Panel the lower half of your bathroom and fill the rest of the wall with a wallpaper design of your choice. Pick a subtle and complementary colour for your panels and let your wallpaper do the rest.

6. Work with stripes

Stripes have long been used to cleverly manipulate how people perceive a room making this one of the best small bathroom wallpaper ideas to maximise your space. To create the feeling of a higher ceiling, use vertical stripes that elongate your bathroom. If your bathroom is on the narrower side, pick a wallpaper with horizontal stripes to make your room feel wider.

7. Opt for a traditional look

Wallpaper might be loved for its diverse selection of designs and colours but that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of more traditional or toned-down options available. Neutral colours are perfect for small bathroom wallpaper ideas to help create a more spacious feeling. Lighter colours can take your small space from dull to fresh and welcoming, so don’t be afraid to embrace simplicity for a more timeless finish.

8. Use your ceiling

Downstairs bathrooms or powder rooms are often located under the stairs, meaning the roof is slanted. Use this to your advantage and accentuate your room’s unique shape. 

Don’t limit your small bathroom wallpaper ideas to only your four walls, instead opt to make a statement and wallpaper your ceiling and one connecting wall. Usually, this works best with the wall that meets the roof at its lowest point. Not only is this a fun way to rejuvenate a small room but, when done well, it can give the illusion of more space.

9. Create a feature wall

If you’re worried about overdoing things and taking your small bathroom from fun to OTT, a feature wall allows you to play around with decorating without going overboard. Play things safe with a subtle but classic design or pick something more daring that would be too much for all four walls but works perfectly in a smaller area. Feature walls are a striking addition to any room, whether you’re revamping a disability bathroom or a guest ensuite.

10. Get artsy with a skyline design

Add an urban twist to your bathroom with wallpaper that takes you to some of the world’s best-known cities. Enjoy New York’s famous skyline or transport yourself to the bustling city of London. While this wallpaper might overwhelm a larger space, it works well in smaller bathrooms allowing the design to take centre stage without becoming too much.

11. Be bold and wallpaper every wall

Why not lean into bolder small bathroom wallpaper ideas and use vivid designs on every wall of your room? Instead of focusing on how to make your bathroom feel bigger, embrace that your space is on the smaller side and focus on creating something truly unique. From vibrant tropical leaf prints that transport you into the heart of the jungle to zany geometric patterns, don’t be afraid to go against the grain. 

Before committing to this design choice, factor in your bathroom’s usage. If your room gets a lot of traffic, especially with children, will four walls of wallpaper be easy to maintain and clean?

12. Playful pastels can make your space pop 

Create a cute look with pastel pinks and purples or peachy patterns that add a little whimsy to your space. Lighter and brighter colours have long been the go-to choice for small bathroom wallpaper ideas, leaving you with an airy and inviting ambience.

13. Add some drama with a black design

Throw caution to the wind with less traditional small bathroom wallpaper ideas and go for something a little more out there. Black wallpaper can create a more cosy and dramatic ambience and would be a striking addition to small bathrooms or cloakrooms. This idea might clash with room features like walk-in showers or mobility baths, which are most likely made with lighter-coloured materials but would work well in cloakrooms.

What wallpaper makes a small bathroom look bigger?

If you’re really tight for space, choosing lighter colours or geometric designs that trick the eye can be a great choice to make your room feel bigger. Neutral colour schemes have been used successfully for years in small bathrooms and are unlikely to go out of style any time soon.

Which wall to wallpaper in a small bathroom?

Which wall you choose to add wallpaper to in your small bathroom is completely down to personal taste and what you’re trying to achieve. If you’re trying to make your room feel more spacious, be aware that wallpapering all walls can sometimes have the opposite effect. If you’re unsure of what will look best in your small bathroom, why not test the waters by wallpapering one wall to begin with? This gives you the option to leave it as it stands, working as a feature wall, or if you love it you can add more to your taste.

Wallpaper prints enable you to add some flair to your space that paint simply cannot replicate. Our 13 small bathroom wallpaper ideas are only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the vast variety of wallpaper designs available; your only limit is your imagination!

Creative bathroom wallpaper ideas to revamp your space

by Joel Griffiths | 7th Aug, 2024 | Inspiration

If neutral-toned tiles, blank walls, and basic fixtures aren’t really your thing, then you’re in the right place. In this post, we are going to show you how wallpaper can effortlessly bring vibrancy to your room. 

We have wallpaper bathroom ideas that can add personality, style, and uniqueness to your space thanks to their colours, prints and patterns. Discover bold and bright graphic-adorned designs, as well as tonal options with subtle textures. Below we’ve created a list of different wallpaper styles, including the pros and cons of each – and which bathrooms they would suit best. Let’s dive straight in…

Grey 

Grey wallpaper is a timeless option. It’s a versatile and sophisticated hue that promises to blend into any atmosphere without drastically changing the vibe of a bathroom. It has a calming undertone and will effortlessly add interest to the wall, without being loud or brash. Discover subtle textures, discreet patterns, and barely-there off-white shades to more daring charcoal colours. 

Grey wallpaper is an excellent choice if you want something elegant and smart. It can add depth, dimension, and shadows to the bathroom. Plus, it’s ideal if you’re not sure what colour to go for, or if you don’t want something too bold. There’s a whole spectrum of grey shades to pick from depending on the level of grey you love. Plus, it’ll match with your existing fixtures and décor with no fuss. 

Grey wallpaper can often have duller undertones, therefore in smaller spaces, it can make the room feel more enclosed. Some would also say that these shades have a ‘cold’ effect and make bathrooms feel more sterile if not balanced with warmer décor. 

We’d suggest a grey wallpaper for larger, airy rooms. Possibly a space that has lots of natural light. If you love grey tones but have a smaller room, we’d suggest picking a light variation of the colour, rather than going too dark, as this could make the space feel even smaller.

Tropical

Be inspired by far-flung destinations and the wildlife of the jungle with vibrant designs featuring tropical greenery, exotic flowers, and a whole host of rarely spotted animals. After all, your bathroom was designed for balmy temperatures and humid conditions.

Tropical wallpaper will instantly enliven your space. These wallpapers are usually finished in bright colours that will bring energy and life into your home. They also become a talking point – a far cry from plain-coloured tiles and walls. It’ll help bring a lively atmosphere to your space like you’re exploring the outdoors every time you bathe.

However, sometimes, in smaller rooms, tropical wallpaper can be a bit much. It can look a little fussy if it’s not mixed with other decor. Another thing to consider is the colour and décor of your current fixtures. Because this paper is bold and made to be seen, it can often clash with other colours.

We’d say this type of paper is best for feature walls in smaller rooms with mobility style baths, or creating a stand-out tropical themed bathroom in larger spaces. 

Black and white

Master the monochrome look with black and white coloured wallpaper. This style offers a bold statement look for any bathroom, and one that is timeless. This could include bold stripes, chequerboard, abstract art or plain and textured. 

Black and white wallpaper is very modern and striking. The hues are completely timeless, meaning you won’t have to re-wallpaper for a while after you’ve applied due to it going out of style. It’s often quite versatile, too and will go with your current fixtures and fittings, even in a disabled bathroom.

However, if you go for something too overpowering, block black colours can be quite in-your-face. I you’d prefer a more subtle touch, you may want a lighter hue that doesn’t offer as much contrast. Also, if you choose a print or pattern, it may need careful alignment and, as such making it more of a fiddly job to apply.

Green

Go for the refreshing and vivid colour of green wallpaper. It can bring a sense of the outdoors, inside. You’ll benefit from the relaxing well-being benefits that nature and tranquillity offer. From on-trend sage to deep forest hues – there are plenty of shades to choose from. If you love pastels, light mint and lime will effortlessly perk up your walls. 

Green wallpaper provides a serene environment. Your bathroom should be a place where you can relax and unwind, so of course the soft and soothing effect of this colour works wonderfully. It’ll also add depth and dimension to your space. Green pairs perfectly with classic fixture colours of white, brass and silver – so you can be sure it won’t clash. 

Occasionally, if you overdo it on accessories, green wallpaper can be a little busy. If you’re using a vibrant shade of green it could appear quite bold when used on all four walls – therefore you may consider a pastel hue or just doing a single feature wall. As with all colours they can come in and out of date quite quickly, so make sure it’s a colour you love and not one that’s just following the newest trends.

Funky

To completely transform your space, why not go for a funky wallpaper? We’re talking about one-of-a-kind prints, vibrant colours and playful styles that will make heads turn every time visitors powder their nose.  

There’s no doubt funky wallpaper is that it will truly set your bathroom apart from the rest. Whether you choose bold geometric prints, animal patterns or artistic murals – you can be sure they’ll become an instant talking point. Your bathroom should be your sanctuary, so why not fill it with designs you adore? If you’re going for playful prints, then you’ll add a light-hearted atmosphere to your space, while bright psychedelics will add a touch of personality and creativity to your home.

However, something to keep in mind is that due to a larger-than-life personality, funky wallpaper can be easier to get fed up with. If you compare that to choosing a plain tonal hue – it is not something that draws your eyes every time you enter the room, so it wouldn’t be something you get bored of. It is also something that requires an eye for design – and ensuring you can balance it with the surroundings of the bathroom.

How to choose a bathroom wallpaper

Finding your perfect bathroom wallpaper can really transform the space and make your home feel more ‘you’. But of course, there are several factors you may want to consider before investing. Here are a few points to help you make an informed choice: 

Consider your bathroom space and layout

Is your room compact or roomy? Does it have a simple 4-wall layout or a more unconventional one? How much wall space do you have? 

The larger your room, the bolder you may want to go. Or if it comes down to budgeting, you may just want to wallpaper a single feature wall. For small bathroom wallpaper ideas, you may prefer to go for light, airy colours that’ll help the room feel a lot bigger. 

Make sure it suits your bathroom style 

If your bathroom is full of traditional features and vintage carpentry – then you’ll probably want to go for a more rustic aesthetic of paper. Whereas if your room is full of the latest fixtures, like a sleek white walk-in shower and a fresh marble floor, then you’ll want to choose a modern design. 

As a part of this you’ll want to balance the paper you choose with the fixtures you already have – making sure that they don’t clash. 

Ensure it’s appropriate for the bathroom 

Your bathroom will get warm and humid, therefore it’s essential the style you choose is designed with waterproof finishes, or specially crafted bathroom paper. This way, you’ll find it easier to clean too.

Wallpaper can instantly refresh the whole feel of your bathroom, and without too much work. There are so many different styles, patterns, prints and colours to go for, so it’s important to consider the design of your current bathroom, its fixtures, and your personal preference.