Aging in place design is becoming a big trend, especially among my clients who want their homes to support them throughout all stages of life. Recently, I stayed at the Sheraton Universal Studios and was surprised to see just how well they’ve incorporated these concepts into their rooms. I traveled with my daughter, and while the space worked great for her, it was also clear how these features would be incredibly useful for older adults or anyone with mobility challenges.
Here’s a look at some of the key aging in place design elements I found during my stay and why they’re worth considering for any home.
The first thing I noticed walking into the room was the wide doorway. At 36 inches, it was spacious enough for a wheelchair to easily pass through—an essential detail for accessibility.
I also appreciated the door hardware, which was designed to be ergonomic. Unlike traditional knobs that can be hard on wrists, especially for those with arthritis, these handles were easy to grip and required minimal effort to open and close. It’s a small but important change that can make a big difference for people with limited strength or mobility.
In the bathroom, I was impressed by the low sink that had space underneath, allowing someone in a wheelchair to pull right up. The ergonomic faucet was easy to turn on and off without needing much force, making it ideal for anyone with limited dexterity. It was great to see how the design thought of both functionality and comfort.
The tile floors were another standout feature. Not only were they beautiful, but they were also non-slip, which is crucial in wet areas like bathrooms, especially for seniors or anyone with balance concerns. Plus, the tiles were easy to clean, which is a practical consideration for anyone who might find daily maintenance a challenge.
One thoughtful touch that caught my eye was a handlebar that doubled as a toilet paper holder. It’s a simple idea, but it adds a layer of safety by providing support when getting up or sitting down.
The toilet itself was lower than standard height, which can be more comfortable for people with mobility issues. These kinds of details show just how much thought went into making the space accessible for all ages.
The bathroom also had a curbless shower, meaning there was no ledge or bump to step over, making it easy to enter and exit safely. Inside, the shower faucet was placed within easy reach, and the shelves with shampoo and conditioner were positioned at a convenient height for everyone.
The grippy shower floor was another important feature for preventing slips, and the built-in shower seat made it comfortable for anyone who might need to sit while showering. Whether you're 5 or 85, this kind of design works for everyone.
What struck me most about the Sheraton Universal's room was how these aging in place features were integrated without sacrificing style or comfort. It didn’t feel clinical or forced—it was just good design that made the room work for everyone, regardless of age or ability.
The trend of aging in place is something more and more of my clients are requesting, and for good reason. Thoughtful design ensures your home will adapt to your needs as you age, making it both functional and comfortable for the long term.
At Honeycomb Design & Remodel, we specialize in creating spaces that grow with you. If you're thinking about incorporating aging-in-place features into your home, let’s chat! We’d love to help you design a space that’s perfect for every stage of life.