Accessible showers

Futurion Flat shower tray from Villeroy & Boch

These days, accessible showers are an integral part of a modern bathroom. Thanks to their clear lines, they not only look elegant and refined – they also provide additional safety. A floor-level shower is comfortable and easy to access, even for elderly people, children or people with disabilities. It also reduces the likelihood of falls in the bathroom – and makes it possible to use your bathroom well into old age.

What defines a floor-level shower?

A shower is described as accessible or floor-level if the shower tray can be accessed at ground level. Accessible showers must comply with a standardised norm – DIN standard 18040-2. This standard specifies the following criteria

Squaro Infinity shower tray from Villeroy & Boch

  • The threshold between the floor and the shower tray must not be more than two centimetres high. However, it is advisable to build it as close to floor level as possible.
  • The minimum size of the movement area is 120 x 120 centimetres.
  • The floor of the shower tray must be non-slip to reduce the risk of slipping.
  • The shower tray must also be accessible with a walking frame.
  • The shower wall should allow a seat and grab handle to be retrofitted if necessary.
  • A single-lever mixer should be chosen for the taps and fittings, as this is particularly easy to use and can be operated with only one hand.
  • The lever should point downwards so that it can also be easily reached from a seated position. Non-contact shower controls are also available.
  • A temperature limiter should be installed to prevent the water temperature from being accidentally turned up.

How big should an accessible shower be?

Anyone who attaches importance to accessibility in their bathroom should also choose an appropriate design for the shower area. The following criteria are particularly important for an accessible bathroom in accordance with the DIN standard:

  • Easy access to the shower thanks to sufficient width.

  • A non-slip bathroom floor.

  • Generous spaces in front of the shower, toilet and washbasin – plan for at least 120 x 120 centimetres.

  • The washbasin should be placed at a maximum height of 80 centimetres so that it can also be used while sitting. For this purpose, be sure to also create a corresponding free space for the legs – a depth of at least 55 centimetres should be planned.

  • Doorways should be at least 80 centimetres wide.

  • It must be possible to retrofit grab handles and supports on the walls if required.

  • It must be possible to unlock the bathroom door from the outside in case of emergency. In addition, it should be possible to open the door outwards.
ViCare from Villeroy&Boch

Accessible washbasins and accessible toilets are also a good idea. In the Vi-Care line from Villeroy & Boch, you will find rimless washdown toilets and wall-mounted washbasins with integrated handles for optimum safety.

Discover ViCare

Advantages of a floor-level shower

Squaro Infinity shower tray from Villeroy&Boch

  • Greater comfort, as a walk-in shower tray makes it easier to enter/exit the shower.

  • Greater freedom of movement when showering.

  • Additional safety – no tripping or falling over the threshold between the floor and shower tray.

  • High level of hygiene and easy cleaning.

  • A floor-level shower tray and translucent shower walls make the bathroom appear roomier.

  • Strong aesthetic appeal with a harmonious sense of space.

  • Optimal use of the available space.

Modern yet suitable for the elderly and accessible

A walk-in shower in the bathroom is a wise decision – and not just for older people or wheelchair users. You will benefit from the increased comfort and modern design from day one. Indeed, you will quickly appreciate the benefits of an accessible shower, especially as your children can also get in and out safely.

A walk-in shower can be adapted to your needs on an ongoing basis. For example, fit a grab handle if you are temporarily dependent on a wheelchair due to an illness. Even if you have physical limitations, an accessible shower gives you confidence that you can retain your independence for as long as possible.

Floor-level showers from Villeroy & Boch

At Villeroy & Boch, you will find a wide range of accessible shower trays that perfectly combine safety, hygiene and aesthetics. All shower trays can also be installed resting on the tiles – this makes installation particularly easy.

Architectura shower tray from Villeroy & Boch

The floor-level shower trays in our Architectura Metalrim line are rimless, ultra-flat, and ultra-sturdy. These high-quality acrylic shower trays won the Red Dot Design Award in 2014.

O.Novo shower tray from Villeroy&Boch
O.novo

The shower trays in the O.novo line are made of easy-care ceramics and are available with a non-slip coating. They are characterised by a timeless and stylish design.

Squaro Infinity shower tray from Villeroy&Boch
Squaro Infinity

The flexible shower tray – the Squaro Infinity shower tray is made of Quaryl and can be cut to customised dimensions and adapted precisely to your needs.

Lifetime Plus shower tray from Villeroy&Boch
Lifetime Plus

The comfortable shower tray from the Lifetime Plus collection is made of high-quality ceramics and inspires with its harmonious look.

Accessibility in the bathroom – a sensible investment at any time

Making your bathroom accessible makes sense at any time. This way, you not only benefit from a modern look, but are also prepared for all eventualities at an early stage and can look to the future with peace of mind. A floor-level shower is the centrepiece of an accessible bathroom.