Adaptable House
Bedroom Features
Support for rest, recovery, and getting in and out of bed
Concept
The Bedroom Features System makes the bedroom a place of safety, comfort, and ease for both users and caregivers. It supports essential daily transitions — getting in and out of bed, moving nearby, and staying active within the space.
A pivoting, stowable rail system provides dependable support around the bed, while an overhead element enables movement, stretching, and exercise without requiring the user to leave the bed.
Design Intent
The bedroom is where the day begins and ends. This system integrates mobility and support directly into the room’s architecture so users can rest, recover, and move with dignity and independence.
By supporting both physical needs and caregiver assistance, the design reduces strain, increases safety, and helps people remain active participants in their daily routines.
User Experience
The Bedroom Features System provides stability, flexibility, and peace of mind.
• A movable rail system supports sitting up, standing, exercise and moving around the bed
• The rail can pivot or stow to accommodate changing needs and layouts
• An overhead system allows for stretching, light exercise, and supported repositioning in bed
Together, these elements make transfers and daily movement easier, safer, and more comfortable — creating a bedroom that feels supportive, empowering, and restorative.
Mary’s Reflection
“Some mornings, getting out of bed feels like the biggest hurdle of the day. Having the supports there gives me confidence. I can pull myself up, steady myself, stretch or exercise safely in bed, and start using my muscles even if I’m not ready to go far yet. The support makes it easier to exercise, build strength, and trust my body enough to start moving around more. On days I need extra help, the system supports both me and my caregiver — even for getting up at night to use the bathroom. It makes the bedroom feel safe instead of stressful.”
Research & Collaboration
The Bedroom Features System has been developed through Human-Centered Design research at the University of Washington and California State University, Long Beach. Work to date includes conceptual development and interdisciplinary design exploration. The University of Washington’s Mechanical Engineering department will further advance this feature as a Capstone Project in 2025–2026, focusing on ergonomic design, retractability, and engineering performance.
Next Steps
Engineering refinement, full-scale prototyping, and fabrication are underway. We are seeking funding and manufacturing partners to bring these supportive bedroom systems into homes where they can improve safety, comfort, and independence.
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 make the bedroom a place of rest, recovery, and supported independence — empowering people to begin and end each day with confidence and dignity.
