Bungalows, cottages, and other small homes are gaining popularity as people look for more affordable and sustainable housing options. However, many of these charming homes were built decades ago and lack the accessibility features needed by people with disabilities or limited mobility. A recent renovation project demonstrates how a small vintage bathroom can be upgraded for universal access and style.

Overview of the Bungalow Bathroom Renovation

The bathroom in this 1920s Southern California Spanish bungalow was very outdated and cramped. The 4 foot by 6 foot space had not been renovated since the 1960s, with mint green tile, a very small corner sink, and an inaccessible bathtub/shower combination.

The homeowner wanted to remodel the bathroom into a functional, easy to access washroom for her elderly mother, who uses a walker. Some of the problems that needed addressing included:

• Narrow doorway impeded walker access
• No grab bars or handrails for stability
• Tiny vintage sink and faucets hard to use
• Stepped entry and tall sides on bathtub hazardous

A complete gut renovation was undertaken to transform the bungalow bath into a safe, handicap accessible space. The redesign increased maneuvering clearances, added grab bars and handrails, installed an accessible curbless shower, replaced plumbing fixtures, improved lighting, and much more.

Universal Design Principles for Small Bathrooms

“Universal design” refers to creating environments and products that can be utilized by the widest range of people, regardless of age or ability. Here are some of the universal design tactics utilized in this bungalow bathroom remodel:

Entryway

• Expanded door size to 32 inches for walker access
• Eliminated step up into bathroom for flat entry
• Added contrasting color stripe on floor at entry to aid visibility

Flooring

• Selected non-slip tile flooring with minimal grout lines
• Used large format 12″ x 24″ tiles to minimize seams and transitions
• Included in-floor heating for comfort underfoot

Clearances

• Met ADA standards for 60″ diameter turning circle
• Provided 30″ x 48″ clearance at fixtures for mobility devices
• Added 27″ x 29″ transfer space at toilet area

Curbless Shower

• Removed bathtub and created curbless, no threshold shower
• Installed fold-down bench seat and thermostatic faucets
• Added adjustable handheld showerhead with slide bar

Grab Bars & Handrails

• Installed 36″ grab bars on all shower walls
• Added 18″ vertical grab bar at shower entry
• Included L-shaped grab bar at the toilet area
• Mounted new ADA toilet with comfort height bowl

Fixtures & Accessories

• Chose easy grip lever faucets and low-profile vessel sink
• Added motion-activated night light illumination
• Included large tilting mirror at vanity for visibility

Storage & Maneuvering

• Removed bulky vintage built-in cabinetry
• Installed space-saving floating vanity and medicine cabinet
• Added open under sink storage with no hard to reach areas

Step-By-Step Bathroom Remodel Process

Completely renovating a small vintage bathroom for handicap accessibility while maintaining the home’s historic architecture required careful planning and phasing. Here is an overview of the key phases:

Design & Planning Phase

• Evaluated existing bathroom layout and took detailed measurements
• Researched universal design options and ADA requirements
• Created detailed drawings for the new bathroom layout
• Selected finishes, fixtures, lighting and accessories
• Developed written design plan with specifications
• Pulled all required building permits

Demolition Phase

• Cleared out existing bathroom completely, removing all fixtures, cabinetry, tile, and plumbing
• Demolished walls and doorway to studs
• Removed section of flooring at new curbless shower location
• Disposed of all debris safely

Rough In Phase

• Expanded doorway framing and added new shower niche framing
• Rerouted supply lines and drain piping as needed
• Installed new electrical wiring and LED lighting fixtures
• Added in-floor radiant heating tubes and cement backerboard

Tiling Phase

• Applied waterproofing membranes at shower and floor
• Laid floor tile with minimal grout lines
• Installed wall tile in shower area and niche
• Tiled bathroom walls with easy to clean ceramic tile
• Added tile edging and accessories like soap dish

Finish Phase

• Mounted drywall, primed, and painted
• Installed all new fixtures, sink, toilet, lighting, fans
• Added grab bars, handrails, mirrors and other accessories
• Completed final trim, caulking, grouting and sealing
• Thoroughly cleaned and tested all plumbing fixtures
• Inspected work and closed out permits

Costs of a Small Bathroom Remodel

Upgrading a tiny 1920s bathroom with 5 x 7 dimensions to make it wheelchair accessible and code compliant can cost $15,000 to $30,000. Here’s a look at typical costs:

• Plumbing: $3,500 – $7,000 for rerouting pipes, new sink/faucet, curbless ADA shower conversion, labor
• Electrical: $1,200 – $2,800 for lighting, fans, heated floors, safety equipment
• Walls/Flooring: $3,000 – $7,500 for waterproofing, tile, paint, framing, drywall, trim
• Fixtures/Hardware: $2,500 – $4,000 for grab bars, rails, toilet, mirrors, accessories
• Permits/Labor: $3,500 – $6,000 for permits, design fees, demolition, carpentry, finishing

Many factors affect the cost like layout, high-end finishes, geographical location, and more. Carefully vetting contractors and getting multiple quotes is advisable. Also take advantage of any tax credits or incentive programs available for accessibility remodels.

Design Ideas for Small, Accessible Bathrooms

While meeting accessibility guidelines is the priority, you can still create a beautiful, functional bath sanctuary. Here are some tips:

• Select neutral, light colors to visually expand the tight space
• Use glass shower doors instead of shower curtains to save room
• Install dimmable, adjustable lighting for ambiance and safety
• Choose sleek rectangular undermount sinks to maximize counter space
• Use pocket doors rather than swinging doors if possible
• Add a fold-down bench or chair to provide resting spots
• Look for shallow profile toilets that protrude less into room
• Include amenities like towel warmers, mirrors with built-in lighting, and streaming music

Smart Home Technology for Accessibility

The latest smart home technology can greatly enhance accessibility, convenience, and safety in a small bathroom:

• Touchless faucets – Motion activated to turn on/off hands-free
• Automatic soap dispensers – Provide touchless soap dispensing
• Smart showers – Customizable digital controls for water temperature/flow
• Flooding sensors – Detect leaks and automatically shut off water
• Speakers – Stream music, podcasts, audiobooks wirelessly
• Voice assistants – Control lighting and features via voice commands
• Video doorbells – See who is at the bathroom door remotely
• Air purifiers – Improve air quality and remove excess moisture

Finding Professional Help for Accessibility Renovations

Trying to renovate a bathroom DIY-style can be challenging, but hiring design and contractor help experienced in accessibility is key. Here are tips for finding the right professional help:

• Look for an occupational therapist familiar with home modifications
• Search for a Certified Aging in Place Specialist through NAHB
• Find an architect experienced in universal design
• Verify contractors are familiar with ADA standards
• Ask about experience with accessibility remodels
• Request references from previous accessible remodel projects
• Review examples of past work portfolios
• Check licensing and insurance
• Get multiple detailed quotes for the project
• Ask if they offer project management for the remodel

Hiring qualified design build firms or contractors with expertise in accessibility can help ensure your renovation follows best practices and legal requirements. They can guide product selections, provide contractor oversight, and handle all phases of the remodel.

Maintaining Accessibility in a Small Bathroom

Once your bathroom renovation is complete, be sure to keep accessibility and safety top of mind:

• Test grab bars regularly to ensure they are securely mounted
• Check that grab bars have 1 1/2″ space between wall and bar
• Confirm flooring is free of loose tiles or damage
• Report any leaky plumbing to prevent slipping
• Replace any burned out lights right away
• Check that pathways remain clear of clutter
• Use slip-resistant bath mats and shower curtains
• Monitor water temperature to prevent scalding
• Keep commonly used items within easy reach
• Check seat height of toilets regularly
• Clean soap scum, mineral deposits to prevent slips
• Have an occupational therapist do a safety audit annually

Periodically evaluating your accessible bathroom and making minor adjustments will help maintain optimal function and security. Report any new mobility issues to your contractor or health provider promptly to explore additional accessibility adaptations if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bungalow Bathroom Accessibility

1. What are the minimum doorway widths for a wheelchair accessible bathroom? The ADA standards recommend at least 32 inches of clear passage space for a doorway used by wheelchair occupants. Wider openings of 36 inches are ideal for easier maneuvering.
2. How much space is needed for a wheelchair to turn around in a bathroom? ADA guidelines call for a minimum 60 inch diameter clear turning space in bathrooms for maneuvering mobility devices. Extra space is better to allow easier rotation.
3. What are ADA grab bar requirements for accessible bathrooms? Grab bars should be installed on walls beside and behind toilets, in showers, and by bathtubs. They must be 1 1/4 – 1 1/2 inches in diameter and have up to a 1 1/2 inch space between bar and wall. Bars need to be securely mounted to bear weight.
4. What type of flooring is most suitable for an accessible bathroom? Flat, smooth, slip-resistant materials such as sheet vinyl, linoleum, tile, or solid surface flooring products are best. Avoid slick surfaces and minimize grout lines, which can catch wheels.
5. Are curbless showers better than accessible tub/shower combos? For wheelchair users, a curbless zero entry threshold shower is preferable for easier rolling access compared to maneuvering over a tub lip. Also curbless showers eliminate leaks between tub and walls.
6. How much space should be allowed for a wheelchair at sink vanities? The ADA Standards advise at least 30 inches x 48 inches of clear floor space in front of bathroom vanities and sinks to accommodate a forward approach by wheelchair users.
7. Why are comfort height toilets used in accessible bathrooms? ADA compliant toilets have higher seat heights of 16 to 19 inches versus standard 15 inch toilets. The extra height makes getting on and off the toilet easier for those with disabilities or mobility issues.
8. How can you add accessibility features to a bathroom on a budget? Some lower cost updates like grab bars, lever faucets, slip-resistant rugs, nightlights, and clear under sink storage can help boost accessibility without major renovation. Start with easy upgrades first.
9. What kinds of spa-like special features can you add to an accessible bathroom? Soaking tubs with grab bars, seated showers, heated floors, dressing benches, towel warmers, and adjustable color lighting help create an accessible at-home spa sanctuary.
10. How can you maintain safety in your new handicap-accessible bathroom? Check grab bars and flooring regularly, improve lighting, declutter pathways, use bath mats/strips, adjust toilet/seat heights as needed, wipe away condensation, and have a professional do an audit periodically.

Final Thoughts

Upgrading a small, outdated bungalow bathroom for universal access and ADA compliance is achievable with careful planning and design. New curbless showers, comfort height toilets, lever faucets, reinforced grab bars, and non slip surfaces can transform a space into a safe, inviting bath sanctuary. While meeting accessibility guidelines is essential, you can also include special features like spa lighting, heated floors, and smart home technology to create a beautiful, functional oasis. With professional help and by following universal design principles, even the tiniest vintage bath can gain wonderful new accessibility.

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