Adaptable House
Bathroom Features
Wellness, safety, and independence built into a very essential space
Concept
The Bathroom Features System transforms the bathroom into a place of restoration, decompression, and daily renewal. It integrates mobility, cleanliness, atmosphere, and ergonomic support so users can care for themselves safely, comfortably, and with dignity.
From showering and dressing to toileting and balance support, each element is designed to help people feel better in their bodies while preserving independence and privacy — with surfaces and systems that allow the space to be cleaned quickly, thoroughly, and without drama when needed.
Design Intent
Bathrooms often become clinical when mobility changes. This system ensures the environment remains warm, supportive, and aesthetically aligned with the home rather than feeling institutional.
By embedding grab-holds, adjustable supports, and therapeutic elements directly into the architecture, the design encourages confidence, reduces risk, and makes personal care a more empowering and comfortable experience — including moments when cleanup is required, so challenges can be addressed efficiently, discreetly, and without emotional burden.
User Experience
Every feature supports both function and well-being.
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Showers include cleanable contours and sculpted, non-institutional lean surfaces and grab-holds for safe disrobing, washing, and dressing
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A compact, purpose-built washer and dryer support hygiene and independence within the bathroom
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Easy-to-clean surfaces and readily accessible tools allow quick recovery when messes happen — across the toilet, floor, and shower
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Adjustable-height toilets pair with elegant hand-holds for ease of transfer
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Non-slip flooring provides stability and comfort underfoot
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Integrated surfaces offer places to rest, stretch, build strength, improve posture, and decompress
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Pivoting assist elements support the full toileting process — from disrobing to transfers — making care safer, simpler, and less physically demanding for both users and caregivers.
The bathroom functions as a fully integrated care zone, where supports, surfaces, and hygiene tools are thoughtfully arranged within reach to reduce effort, streamline routines, and make personal care easier and more dignified. Every feature supports both function and well-being.
The result is a bathroom that supports daily care without shame or delay, helping people recover quickly, regain composure, feel comfortable, and continue their day with confidence after difficult moments.
Mary’s Reflection
“When I step into the bathroom, I want it to feel calming, not clinical. Having supportive surfaces that look like part of the design makes all the difference. I can take care of myself, reset, and come out feeling stronger and more prepared for the day.
The space supports caregivers assisting users and the users themselves on harder days, when things don’t go as planned — making cleanup easier, preserving dignity, and keeping the focus on confidence rather than stress or embarrassment.”
Research & Collaboration
The Bathroom Features System has been developed through interdisciplinary Human-Centered Design research at the University of Washington and California State University, Long Beach. This work provides a strong foundation for refinement, fabrication, and integration.
Next Steps
First run studies, engineering validation, and material testing are in process. We are seeking funding, manufacturing, and construction partners to bring these restorative bathroom innovations into homes.
Join Us. Make an Impact.
Your support helps move these responsive systems from concept to lived experience. Opportunities include:
• Donate – fuel innovation and accelerate development
• Collaborate – partner on prototyping, manufacturing, or construction
• Volunteer – contribute your expertise or time to advance the project
Together, we can transform the bathroom into a place of renewal, dignity, and independence — supporting wellness in everyday living.
