Aging-in-place bathroom design is one of the smartest ways to stay safe and independent at home. Studies show that falls in the bathroom are more likely to result in injury than those in any other part of the home, which makes thoughtful bathroom design especially important for homeowners in Asheville and Western North Carolina who want to age in place. Our remodeling team includes a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist, and the National Association of Home Builders offers more aging-in-place resources.
At Scroggs Construction Services, we understand how important it is to remain comfortable and independent in the home you love. That’s why we have a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) on staff. As our Lead Interior Designer, Alicia Presnell helps homeowners explore design choices that support long-term well-being without compromising on style.
In this blog, we chat with Alicia to learn five ways you can future-proof your bathroom, whether you’re updating an existing home or building new.
1. Start with an Accessible, Intuitive Layout
A functional layout is the foundation of successful aging-in-place design. Bathrooms should be centrally located and, whenever possible, include a full bath on the main level of multi-story homes.
Doorways and walkways also affect accessibility. Scroggs typically recommends 36-inch door openings and generous clearance around vanities and showers to allow comfortable use of mobility devices.
“Flow matters,” says Alicia. “We aim for clear, intuitive pathways between the vanity, shower, and toilet.”
2. Choose a Curbless Shower
Curbless (aka zero-entry) showers are one of the most requested features in accessible bathroom remodels because they eliminate tripping hazards. They can be stylish, too.
“Curbless showers are the perfect balance of form and function,” says Alicia. “They create a clean, modern look while improving safety and accessibility. We always pair them with a non-slip tile.”
In smaller mountain homes, a curbless shower can also help maximize square footage. And without a raised threshold, the uninterrupted floor line creates a greater sense of openness and flow.
3. Select Slip-Resistant Materials
When it comes to flooring, safety starts underfoot. Smooth tile can become slick when wet, so it’s best to choose matte or textured finishes that offer traction.
For clients planning aging-in-place bathroom remodels in Asheville and Western North Carolina, Alicia always recommends textured porcelain or natural stone, both of which perform well in humid conditions and add visual interest to the space.
“These materials give you stability and style,” she says. “They’re durable, easy to walk on, and bring subtle variation that keeps the room from feeling flat.”
4. Prioritize Accessible Storage
The right storage setup helps make your bathroom safer and more comfortable. Replacing deep, hard-to-reach cabinets with wide, easy-glide drawers keeps essentials accessible and reduces unnecessary bending.
When choosing hardware, look for loop or D-shaped pulls rather than small knobs, because knobs are not as easy to grip for people with limited dexterity. And for the countertop, rounded corners help minimize the risk of injury if a fall does occur.
5. Reinforce for the Future
The smartest design details are often the ones you can’t see. During the framing process, for example, our crews can add hidden support near showers and toilets. That extra reinforcement allows grab bars to be installed later without reopening finished walls or disrupting tilework.
“You may never need the grab bars,” Alicia says, “but it’s a relief to know the support is already there.”
And if you do, modern hardware options in matte black, brushed nickel, or warm brass ensure safety never comes at the expense of style.
Built for Today. Ready for Tomorrow.
At Scroggs Construction Services, we believe great design should evolve with you. Whether you’re updating an existing space or building new, our design-build team combines craftsmanship Certified Aging-in-Place expertise to create bathrooms that are as functional as they are beautiful.
Ready to start your project? Contact us today to begin planning a bathroom that supports your lifestyle, now and for years to come.