shiro studio develops stylish bathroom accessories for people living with arthritis

UK charity versus arthritis  invited shiro studio to reimagine bathroom accessories to assist people living with arthritis. in response, the studio created a collection of elegant fittings that blend in with contemporary home interiors, instead of the sterile, medical-looking equipment that is typically available to users. 

linear system

shiro studio’s design approach addresses the shortcomings of products available in the current market, explains architect andrea morgante, founder of the studio: ‘the available products aimed at people living with arthritis are often inefficient and lacking design dignity and visual qualities: they are cold, medical equipment, unable to fit and blend in a domestic environment. I have been involved in several workshops, discussing these issues with a panel formed by people living with arthritis and some users would rather not use the current products as they feel almost ashamed to have them on display in their own bathrooms. this was for me the real brief and challenge: to create and develop new, functional accessories that would compete with high-end design pieces, proudly fitting in a modern bathroom environment’.

linear system

arthritis in the knees and hips can make it difficult to get in and out of the bathtub. the design intent behind each of these three proposals focuses on allowing users to safely and comfortably access the bath, reducing strain and effort while promoting a contemporary, friendly design that fits the domestic bathroom landscape.

linear system

the first accessory is called ‘pebble’: a soft, organic element that acts as a step, reducing the height gap between the floor surface and the bathtub’s edge, thus easing both access and exit. the top surface features an anti-slip coating while a vertical stick serves as an additional balance and support handle, providing a safer transition.

pebble

the second accessory is called ‘linear’: a family of grip rails that provide a sturdy, safe grip in several positions and postures. in addition, the user can customize color and lengths, with the possibility of adding resting trays for soap, towels, and those accessories that transform the act of washing into an indulgent ritual.

linear system

the third accessory is called ‘pole’: a vertical, floor-to-ceiling telescopic element that provides a safe and comfortable grip and balance aid, featuring an integrated raised step that reduces the climbing gap, alongside a tray and a rotating handle grip, which provides a flexible grab rail. a set of round handles offers additional grab points and can serve as towel holders, allowing users to reach towels while standing in the same spot, thus minimizing the risk of injuries.

pole

pole

pole handle detail

pole handle and tray detail

pebble

pebble

project info:

name: in and out the bath

client: versus arthritis 

design: shiro studio

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: lynne myers | designboom