Stylish, Safe and Green

iPhones, iPads, iPedicures...Oh My

2011-11-09T10:54:00.001-05:00

If have ever had a pedicure or manicure at a busy nail salon you know that the conversations usually centers around celebrity gossip, People magazine and recipes. Well this week I was left speechless by the conversation....

Saturday afternoon there were 6 ladies in the salon ranging in age from 55 to 75. Everyone had an iPhone or an iPad on their lap while getting their pedicures, fills and manicures. As I sat back and listened, I realized that the very animated conversations were about the new features on of the iPhone 4S, Skyping with grand kids at college and how to download Apps.

Baby Boomers are changing the world and they using technology to do it. What is next the iPedicure?

In the spirit of the Nail Salon Chatter:

Eye Reader - Stop squinting at restaurant menus or trying to read your theater program in the dark. The Eye Reader lets you use your iPhone 4's LED light to magnify and illumine small print. (iPhone4; 1.99)

G Park – For those times when it comes to finding your car in a huge parking lot or deck. Just set your location before you leave your car and the app will get you back with pinpoint accuracy. Great for the Airport! (iPhone; .99)

It Takes A Village to Age In Place

2011-11-03T13:43:00.001-04:00

What will it take to successfully Age In Place? It will take a village.

NextDoor.com is a social networking site that has incredible potential for people of all ages. Many communities around the country have initiatives to connect residents, but this site allows neighbors to communicate in any weather and from the safety of their homes when mobility is an issue.

Does anyone have a tool?
Babysitter needed...
Can someone help change my light bulb?
How are you doing in this storm?

I live in a rural area where I rarely get to see my neighbors. This would be a far more effective way to stay in touch, find lost pets and increase neighborhood safety. The world is changing and here is technology to make every community feel a little more "small town".

Is your Haunted House Accessible?

2011-10-28T16:51:00.000-04:00

Make sure your Haunted House is Accessible for all of your guests

by including Great Grabz's Glow in the Dark Grab Bars.

Friday Photos

2011-10-14T14:31:00.000-04:00

1600 Dots....2000 More to Go

In the Field on Firday

An Abbie Joan Job

Have a Great Weekend!

8 Great Bathroom Makeover Ideas

2011-10-12T13:07:00.001-04:00

Here are some 8 great ways to update a bathroom of any size. Every bathroom can look fashion forward with a bit of color and design.

1. Remove old medicine cabinets and install decorative tiles with glass shelves for guest amenities. $$$

2. Install a decorative wood frame around your mirror. Picture frame molding can give the mirror a look of elegance. (Tip - Paint the back of the wood black to avoid a shadow line.) $$$

3. Remove old glass enclosure and replace with clear frameless glass doors. $$

4. Cut out a few of your field tiles and insert decorative tiles to give a pop of color to a solid shower wall. 5.Repaint the room in a warm color tone. This gives everyone a healthy glow. $$

6. Replace dated Hollywood lighting with a new decorative lighting sconces. Your local home stores probably carry a great selection of cost effective lighting. $$

7. Install new bathroom accessories and decorative hardware. Have fun with this! Sports, animals, flowers there are so many options. $

8. Buy new bath towels to add a big pop of color. $

For more great design ideas visit http://www.abbiejoan.com/

Key:
$ - Fast and Cheap.
$$ - DIY over $50
$$$ - Requires Professional over $150

Design/Build Remodeling...More than 1 Man and a Truck

2011-10-11T16:57:00.001-04:00

Today’s savvy homeowners are looking to make good spending decisions on their remodeling projects. They are no longer satisfied by the tradesman who uses his sledge hammer first and then… pulls out his pencil from behind his ear and starts to calculate costs. This method often results in a project that is poorly designed and notoriously over budget.

A Design/Build Remodeler is the perfect professional to work with the new breed of homeowner who is looking for a great project, an enjoyable process and an exceptional value.

The Process:

Initial Meeting – This is the time to get to know one another, survey the existing home, honestly discuss budget desires, and talk about needs both present and future.
Idea Sharing – During the exchange of ideas, the remodeler and the client can see if they are a comfortable match. Can they work together to accomplish the clients goals?
Design Stage – This is where the magic happens… Design ideas are presented, mulled over and agreed upon as a team. Material choices are presented, options are explored and budgets are established. This phase often takes time and requires a series of meetings. Choices are much easier to change on paper then in the field and this is the time to do it.
Construction Documents –When all designs are complete they are put to paper and both remodeler and client sign off. Clear and detailed documents make good projects.
Time to Build – With all of the preparation done it is time to bring in the crews. There are clear cut directions from construction documents and the plan can be executed.

Good value in a remodeling project does not mean cheap. It means that money is well spent and the design and function exceeds expectations.

If you have any questions on Design/Build Remodeling please feel free to contact me at Abbie Sladick, CGR, CAPS or visit our website http://www.abbiejoan.com/

Hotel Design Trends

2011-10-04T11:35:00.002-04:00

New hotel trends you’ll see popping up include:

Multipurpose Lobbies- Reaching out to the younger generation. Hotels are redesigning their lobbies to have their guests come for cocktails, coffee, or just a place to check their emails and hangout with the family. I recently noticed this with my trip to Charlotte NC. The Marriott Hotel in South park had many lounge areas sectioned off for guests to choose from. Along with scented candles and various pitchers of fruit infused water. It was such a welcoming environment that guests were taking advantage of daily.

Source

No More Tubs- Many hotels, like Marriott are doing away with bathtubs, and opting for showers instead. Marriott is “advising our newly built hotels to put showers in 75% of their rooms.”* New technologies in grout allow them to be easier to clean than in the past and color tile options add a new element of creative design for the bathrooms.

Pump Dispensers- Hotels are also beginning to get rid of those cute little bottles of shampoo and conditioner, and installing soap dispensers instead. While including soap dispensers would be easier for those with limited hand mobility, I would imagine that many people- myself included- will miss those tiny bottles that travel so well.

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Electronic Check In- Similar to the kiosks you see at airports, hotels are adding electronic check in spots for guests. Some of Starwood’s Aloft hotels are offering “Smart Check In” that will text a guest on the day of their stay with information on getting into their room- bypassing the line at the check in counter.**

Energy Efficient- Looking for ways to save on their energy costs, hotels are adding technology that requires guests to use their hotel keys to keep the lights on. I experienced this at the Platinum Hotel in Las Vegas. I had to place my room key next to the door to keep the lights going in the hotel room. It was really not an inconvenience in anyway and saved me from unnecessarily leaving any lights on while I was out of the room. Many hotels are also considering adding a motion light detector for the hallways to keep them from having to stay lit all day.

Sources:

Construction Writers

Naples News

What hotel changes would you like to see? Which ones will you miss?

Celebrate the First Day of (Do Not) Fall with a Free Grab Bar!

2011-09-23T08:30:00.000-04:00

Wear White after Labor Day!

2011-08-31T11:51:00.000-04:00

____________________________________________________________________

INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM

____________________________________________________________________

TO: ALL GREAT GRABZ STAFF

FROM: ABBIE SLADICK, PRESIDENT

SUBJECT: LABOR DAY 2011

DATE: 08/30/2011

____________________________________________________________________

Here at Great Grabz, we are constantly reinventing the way the world views style and safety.

This fall, I call upon each of you to break your Grandmother's Fashion Rules

Wear white shoes after Labor Day
Don't wear pantyhose to the office
Pull out that Red Lipstick, even during the day.
Have long hair after 40.
Mix Black and Brown when you feel like it.

We are creating bathroom accessories that make our customers feel Sexy, Strong and Safe. Be empowered by your surroundings and let our customers know that we are committed to doing the same for them.

Have a great Autumn!

5 Places You Never Thought to Put a Grab Bar

2011-08-15T15:15:00.000-04:00

Entry of Shower- Many people place a grab bar on the long wall of their shower, but this can leave a large unsafe gap from walking into the shower and actually being in the shower. Adding a small vertical grab bar at the entrance is great to assist with entry and exit. This is especially needed for tub/shower combinations when someone is required to step over the tub's edge.

2. Near Handheld Shower- The upward motion of removing and returning a handheld shower head to its cradle can cause you or your loved one to become unbalanced. Having a small vertical grab bar near the handheld shower head offers a place to hold.

3. Next to shower seat- For those who may have trouble standing up from a seated position, having a grab bar placed next to a shower seat or bench is a great assistive device. This is especially beneficial when the floor is wet and traction is hard to obtain.

4. In place of a towel bar- Let's face it, when you are about to fall you are going to grab onto whatever is in reach. Instead of installing traditional towel bars into your bathroom, which easily rip out of the wall, use Horizon grab bars instead. They have enough room for even the fluffiest of towels to dry, while having the strength of a grab bar.

5. By the front door- A small vertical grab bar placed near the front door is a great place for someone to hold on to while bringing in groceries, removing shoes, or unleashing the dog. (The 10" Hand Hold is also a great place to hang a dog leash!)

Unique Touch Decorative Acrylic Grab Bars - 20% off Coupon

2011-08-09T13:01:00.000-04:00

Great Grabz is offering

20% off of their Unique Touch Products

if you purchase from them at

GreatGrabz.com

use coupon code UNIQTOUCH55

at checkout to receive discount.

*limit one per customer, good until 08/31/11

For more information on this line of

beautiful acrylic grab bars and bathroom accessories

check out this video:

Meet Bunkie

2011-06-24T13:03:00.000-04:00

In honor of Take Your Dog to Work Day I want to introduce you to

Great Grabz's favorite employee-

Bunkie

I adopted Bunkie 5 years ago from Domestic Animal Services in Naples, FL.

She has been working at Great Grabz for the past 4 years. She wakes up every day excited to work- ready for what the day may bring.

Her job is to greet everyone that walks in the door, and to keep the workers here smiling.

She loves her job, and the flexibilty it offers for her busy sleep schedule.

and they pay is good.

"It's a ruff job but somebody's gotta do it."

Memorial Day

2011-05-27T18:00:00.000-04:00

And I'm proud to be an American, where at least I know I'm free.
And I won't forget the men who died, who gave that right to me.
~Lee Greenwood

source

Products from the Kitchen and Bath Show

2011-05-06T16:27:00.000-04:00

Last week Great Grabz unveiled their new line of Signature Acrylic grab bars. These acrylic bars are available in 20 finishes and are paired with metallic fixtures for a look that really pops.

http://www.greatgrabz.com/

Here are some other great products we saw at the show:

Pulse Shower Spas

www.pulseshowerspas.com

These shower spas are available in a variety of styles and finishes. They are affordable and easy to install.

Jason International

Their new MicroSilk Hydrotherapy is a revolutionary patent-pending process where billions of microbubbles penetrate pores providing a deeper clean while moisturizing the skin.

CLICK HERE for their informational video

or visit them at http://www.jasoninternational.com/.

Aptations

http://www.aptations.com/

These LED magnifying mirrors are the perfect accessible mirror for any bathroom.

Don't be a Fool

2011-04-01T10:54:00.000-04:00

"The wise do at once what the FOOL does at last." - Baltasar Gracian

Pop Quiz: #1 When is the proper time to install a grab bar?

A- Before a fall in the bathroom

B- After a fall in the bathroom

Correct Answer: A

Unfortunately for many, grab bars are usually thought of only AFTER a fall has occurred. There are so many times I receive a phone call from someone who is looking for a grab bar because they have ALREADY fallen in the shower OR they are recovering from an injury that has resulted from a fall and need a grab bar to keep them steady.

While a grab bar is a great thing to add for both of those situations, wouldn't it be a better idea to install one as a preventative measure? The trouble is, most people do not think about the impact a fall can have on their lives.

Pop Quiz: #2 Soap + Water + Tile =

A. A safe and secure area to bathe

B. A slippery surface in which a fall can occur

Correct Answer: B

Let's face it; the shower/bathtub is a slippery place that can be a potential hazard. What IF you fell in the shower and injured yourself? How would this affect your life?

I am a healthy 30 year old woman currently training for my 2nd half marathon by working out 6 days a week. I have 2 dogs that I walk 2 times a day. I live on the 3 floor of my condo that does not have an elevator. I also drive a manual transmission car that requires both my legs and arms to operate.

A fall in the bathroom for me would critically change my daily routine and quality of life. I simply cannot afford the limitations that a sprained or broken bone would cause. My decorative 24” Wave grab bar is perfect for me; it provides just enough support to keep me steady while in the shower and its decorative style looks great in my bathroom.

I challenge everyone, to think about your day-to-day routine. How could a fall affect these activities? Beyond medical bills, have you considered the costs involved?

Guest Blogger Ashley Armstrong is the National Sales Manager for Great Grabz- www.GreatGrabz.com

Spring Cleaning - How to get rid of Sentimental Items

2011-03-21T12:28:00.000-04:00

Yesterday was the first day of spring. For many this is the time for Spring Cleaning.

De-cluttering your space not only keeps your home safer and more organized, but it also allows room to bring good energy into your home.

I look forward to a good spring cleaning every year. Going through my home and tossing out what I no longer use, is not a problem for me. I live by the “one year rule” of tossing out any items I haven’t used or worn in a year. There is something very liberating about rummaging through old magazines, books, junk drawers, closets and pantries to get rid of items I no longer use.

The only items I do have a problem with parting with, are the sentimental ones. So many times we feel obligated to hold on to items we don’t use or even like in some cases, because we have placed a sentimental value on them.

• Your teenagers 4th grade art project

• A gift from your neighbor

• Items from a deceased loved one

• Nik naks that have accumulated over time

• Souvenirs purchased on vacations

I’ve scoured the web and found 5 great tips to help you get rid of sentimental items:

1- Take a picture – This idea, from Making this Home, is to take a picture of the item you love so that you can have the memory of it, without actually having the item in your home.

2. Keep only what nourishes your soul- In this month’s issue of Whole Living Magazine, they suggest asking yourself “does this sentiment nourish your spirit?” If it does, then keep it otherwise free up the space for new energy to arrive.
Read more at Wholeliving.com: Embracing the Art of Decluttering

3. Understand the Sentimental Mind- This is a great blog post that offers 2 new mentalities to adopt to help get rid of items you no longer need or use. #1 Trust in Yourself and #2 Things want to be Used.

4. Only hold on to a few things- In this blog, Rachel suggests that keeping only a few items is what makes them more sentimental. She also offers specific advice for items people tend keep.

5. Keep only three boxes per family member- Blistree.com offers several tips on cleaning out sentimental items, one of them being; keeping only three boxes per family member. Giving yourself a limit allows you to determine what is really important to keep.

What are the sentimental items you keep in your home?
If you have tips on how to get rid of sentimental items we would love to know!

Happy Spring Cleaning!

The Gingerbread Man's Bathroom Renovations Revealed

2010-12-17T11:35:00.000-05:00

Toilet- We provided the Gingerbread Man with a candy comfort height toilet. A comfort height toilet is higher than your average toilet making it more accessible for the Gingerbread Man and easier on his injured leg.

Vanity- For the vanity area, we gave Mr. and Mrs. Gingerbread Man his and hers sinks and mirrors. Each sink has roll under accessibility should either of them need a wheelchair in the future. We also provided them with several storage drawers so their gum drops and candy canes can be properly stored and off of the countertop and floor. The mirrors are lit from overhead for better visibility.

Shower- Mr. and Mrs. Gingerbread Man prefer showers to baths, so we removed their existing coffee mug tub and installed an accessible zero threshold shower.

Shower Bench- We added a shower bench to assist when needed. This "sweet" bench by Great Grabz is mold and slip resistant and easy to clean. The textured licorice top provides a soft cushion for added comfort. We've also added a hand held shower that can reach to the shower bench so they can bathe while seated if needed.

Grab Bar- Great Grabz also provided a grab bar for the shower area from their delicious confections line. It's unique Wave design provides both safety and style for the Gingerbread's shower.

Now Mr. and Mrs. Gingerbread can begin the new year knowing that their bathroom is safer and will accommodate them for years to come.

source

Mr. Gingerbread Man's Home Assessment

2010-12-16T10:19:00.000-05:00

Gingerbread Man’s Home Assessment

It is important to do a home assessment before any bathroom remodel to make sure we are meeting all our client’s present and future needs. Asking questions and listening is the first step to any successful project.

source

Bathroom Entry

Is bathroom door handle easy to turn?
Is entry to bathroom wide enough to roll-in to?
Are there any barriers to entry?

Floor

Is there adequate space to move around the bathroom?
Is the bathroom floor free from tripping hazards?
Are the floors easy to clean?
Is there non-slip tile on the floor?
Is the floor very cold?
Is the shower or tub slippery?
Does shower have a walk-in entry?
Is there adequate drainage in the shower?

Counters

Are counters at a comfortable height and depth for everyone that using the bathroom?
Are counters free from clutter?
Does counter top allow for seating?
Are counters easy to clean?
Do you have too much glare off the counter tops?

Bathtub/Shower

Do you bath or shower?
Is tub easy to get in and out of?
How do you get in and out?
Is tub easy to clean?
Does tub drain effectively?
Is there a grab bar on or near tub to assist with entry and exit?
Is shower easy to get in and out of?
Is there a handheld shower head?
Is water valve easy to turn on?
Do you have to get wet when you turn the water on?
Do you ever have problems with getting scalded by the hot water?
Is there enough room to safely maneuver in the shower?
Do you have a light in the shower?
Are there grab bars in and out of the shower for entry and exit?
Is there a shower seat or bench needed?
Are towels accessible outside of the shower
Where do you keep your towels when you shower?
Are shower tiles easy to clean?

Electrical

Does the bathroom stay humid long after you shower?
Do you ever smell mold in the bathroom?
Do you have adequate lighting at the sink?
Are cords secured and out of the way?
Are electrical outlets accessible?
Are there enough outlets to safely plug in blow dryers, etc.?

CLICK HERE to print out your own bathroom safety checklist.

Meet the Remodeler

2010-12-15T10:45:00.000-05:00

Gingerbread Man has been a friend of the family since I was a child. When he called last week and said that he had injured his leg, I was more than happy to offer my remodeling services to help make his home safer and more accessible for his recovery and for the future.

As a Certified Aging in Place Specialists, I have worked on many homes needing remodeling due to accessibility issues. Even though Mr. Gingerbread Man is expected to make a full recovery, this incident opened his eyes to how limiting his home really is... particularly his bathroom. He is now looking to remodel his master bath so that it will be both beautiful and functional for the whole Gingerbread Family for years to come.

source

An Accessbile Home for the Gingerbread Man

2010-12-07T16:23:00.001-05:00

Holidays are a time of gathering and sharing, but this also the time that so many accidents occur. Unfortunately, over the Thanksgiving holiday Gingerbread Man suffered a terrible accident while at his vacation home in Naples, Florida.

source

source

We have offered to remodel his home to make it completely accessible in time for Christmas. Be sure to check our blog and follow us on twitter for updates on the progress of this project and the carefully chosen universal design features and products.

We would love to hear your ideas on how to make Mr. Gingerbread Man’s home safer.

2010-08-18T09:16:00.000-04:00

#8 of the Beloit College’s list of the mindset of incoming college class of 2014, is:

With increasing numbers of ramps, Braille signs, and handicapped parking spaces, the world has always been trying harder to accommodate people with disabilities.

Which makes me think of how much progress we have made with the creation of the Americans with Disabilities Act, 20 years ago. I can’t help but to think of the mindset of students for the class of 2034.

They will likely know homes that are universally designed.
Multi-generational housing will be the norm.
Grab bars are likely a common item in all bathrooms.

SOURCE

What do you hope for the mindset of the class of 2034?

5 Ways to Make Your Bathroom Accessible for Under $40

2010-08-09T17:02:00.000-04:00

Here are 5 easy changes that you can do to make your bathroom more accessible - all under $40!

1. Add no slip bath mats - No slip bath mats help prevent falls both in and out of the shower. Falls can be lead to serious injury sometimes even resulting in death. Did you know... more than 10,000 people over the age of 65 die from fall related injuries annually?

2. Change existing door knobs into lever door handles. Round door knobs require finger strength and rotational dexterity to operate. Lever door handles can be opened with the arm or hand with less effort.

Watch this video for step-by-step instructions on how to install a lever door handle:

How to Remove & Replace/Install a Door Lever -- powered by eHow.com

3. Install Rocker Light Switch- Unlike toggle light switches, rocker switches are easier to operate and can be turned on or off with the arm or elbow.

4. Remove Clutter- Using shower caddies, above the toilet shelving, drawer dividers, robe and towel hooks and behind the door hangers are great for keeping items off of the floor in and out of the shower. Keeping a hamper in the bathroom also helps keep laundry from piling up on the floor.

5. Install a handheld shower head- Handheld shower heads are great for bathing whether you are in a seated or standing position. They are also great for bathing children or pets, to help minimize stress on the back.

Here is a video on how to install a handheld shower head:

Accessible Whole Wheat Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

2010-08-05T14:54:00.000-04:00

Adapted from 101 Cookbooks

Accessible Whole Wheat Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

2 3/4 cup rolled oats (not instant)
1 cup whole wheat flour
2/3 cup wheat bran (or germ)
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon fine grain sea salt
1 cup unsalted butter
1 cup natural cane sugar or light brown sugar
1 cup firmly packed Muscovado or dark brown sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
10 oz semi-sweet chocolate bar, chopped and shaved into chunks and splinters

Directions:

Preheat the built in oven placed 30" from the floor to 350 degrees F with racks placed in the middle.

Line two baking sheets with unbleached parchment paper and set aside.
On a pull-out mid level work table and combine the oats, flour, wheat bran, baking soda, baking powder and salt in a medium bowl found in the kitchen pull down shelves. Set aside.

Using pop up mixer shelf cream the butter until light and fluffy. Beat in sugar,found in the Super Susan cabinet, for 3+ minutes, scraping down sides a few times along the way.

source

Incorporate the eggs found in side by side refrigerator with slide out freezer drawer, one at a time, then the vanilla- scraping the sides of the bowl another time or two.

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Add the dry mixture, and stir until everything barely comes together. Then stir in the chocolate, from the pull out pantry, until it is evenly distributed throughout the dough.

With a soft grip ice cream scoop, make uniform dough balls and arrange each cookie at least 3 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.

For extra crisp cookies, bake until deeply golden brown on the bottom for 15 minutes. Using a durable oven mitt, like OXO grey silicone oven mitt, to turn the pan once 2/3 of the way through baking.

For chewier cookies bake for less time. Cool on rack.
Makes about 2 dozen large cookies.
After baking sheet has cooled, place all dirty dishes into a raised dishwasher for cleaning.

Are your Grab Bar Selections Decorative, Design Neutral or Devoid of Design?

2010-06-29T15:15:00.000-04:00

In the past, many hospitality designers and architects paid little attention to their ADA bathroom accessory selections. These selections were not a part of the decorative package, but were merely a utilitarian afterthought.

Grab Bars and shower seats have been excluded from the carefully planned and orchestrated interior bathroom selections. This methodology allowed the specifiers to select the same old reliable products that have always been used, but had the end result of taking away from the look of the finished bathroom.

How many beautiful bathrooms have you seen that have standard stainless steel grab bars?

How did it make you feel?

With shrinking material budgets and more demanding guest requirements, this is no longer a design choice that any design professional can afford to make. Designers now have the option to choose from many of the great decorative grab bars on the market.

There are bars that add flair and the unexpected to bathroom design like the Great Grabz Wave bar.

A grab bar can also be used as a towel bar, allowing for both function and added safety.

The concept of Design Neutral is to make no statement with your design. (this is not the same as being devoid of design) To be Design Neutral in your grab bar selection, try specifying the a Great Grabz Splash bar powder coated in a custom color of your choice to blend in with the shower stone.

Whatever your design style, be sure your guests are Wow'd that you paid as much attention to their safety and comfort as you did for the color of the walls.

Right-Sizing Your Home

2010-06-23T14:30:00.000-04:00

Last week I received a copy of Right-Sizing Your Home: How to Make Your House Fit Your Lifestyle by Gale C. Steves. The first thing that caught my eye was the beautiful photography and exceptional layout of the book. If nothing else, this book is a great resource for those looking for design ideas.

Each chapter focuses on a function in the home: Where you cook, eat, relax, etc. and helps readers assess their individual style and approach to each. Steves then walks the reader through the process of creating a living space that is the “right size” for their lifestyle.

Right-Sizing Your Home has a ton of wonderful ideas, including many Universal Design products. This book covers everything for someone looking to remodel their home.

Buy your copy here:

Bathroom Safety Checklist

2010-04-20T13:56:00.000-04:00

Shower

__ Grab bars should be placed both in and out of the shower to prevent falls anywhere in the bathroom

__ Apply non-slip grip to shower or tub floor
__ Shower seat or bench for a safer way to shave legs or wash feet

__ Handheld shower head
__ Curbless shower entry
__ Lever handles
__ Anti-scald faucets on sink, bathtub and shower

Toilet Area

__ Grab bars next to toilet

__ Supportive toilet paper holder

__ Toilet seats 17” – 19” off the floor for older persons

__ Toilet seats less than 17” for children

Vanity Area

__ Countertops with rounded edges

__ Easy glide drawers that close automatically

__ Bright non-glare lighting

__ Eliminate clutter

Does your grab bar selection compromise your bathroom design?

2010-04-13T10:40:00.000-04:00

From mints on the pillow to complementary bathrobes- great hotels know that it’s the details that make a guest's stay memorable.

Even grab bars, which were once installed only to meet ADA code, are being given a second thought when it comes to bathroom design for both ADA and non-ADA hotel rooms.

“There is no excuse for ugly utilitarian grab bars and other universal design elements either. Sophisticated alternatives abound as baby boomers grow older and the spa-as-sanctuary trend expands,” says Jeffrey Ornstein, CEO of J/Brice Design International.

Source

Great Grabz, the leader in decorative grab bars, is seeing this trend among luxury hotels. They’ve recently partnered with Disney® and Marriott® in providing them with grab bars for all of their guest bathrooms- keeping their guests safe without compromising the bathroom design.

“Institutional grab bars are now a thing of the past as guests demand both safety and style,” says Great Grabz President, Abbie Sladick. "We carry a variety of grab bars at various price levels to meet the needs of the hospitality, commercial and residential markets."

For more information on Great Grabz you can visit them online at: www.GreatGrabz.com.

6 Tips for Grab Bar Placement

2010-04-08T10:12:00.000-04:00

6 Tips for Grab Bar Placement

Customers say to us all the time "I know I need a grab bar, but have no idea where it should go." Here are 6 tips for grab bar placement for you or your client's home.

1- Grab Bar Height- There is no standard height requirement for residential installation of grab bars, and everyone's needs are different, but as a rule of thumb, in ADA compliant bathrooms, grab bars are installed 33"-36" off the finished floor. The recommended height for children is 17"-28".

If your bathroom will be used for family members and guests who may be of different heights and abilities, the Great Grabz Wave bar is the perfect solution. The Wave sweeps up 3" to cover more area making it comfortable and secure for everyone.

2- Grab Bar Length- Grab bars should cover as much of the shower wall as possible. If you have a large shower, we suggest a bar for each wall to ensure safety.

3- Outside of the shower or tub- Having a small grab bar placed vertically outside of the shower or tub entry is great for assistance stepping to and from a wet surface. Great Grabz's 10" grab bar is ideal for this application.

4- Tub Deck- Soaking tubs are all the rage in bathroom design. However, trouble can come quickly if someone is unable to exit the tub. We suggest installing a grab bar on the wall behind the tub and/or a small grab bar on the tub deck. Be sure the grab bar is in a place where a foot cannot trip on it while entering or exiting a tub.

5- Towel bars with strength- Let's face it, when you are about to fall you'll grab on to anything close by - including a towel bar. Why not make towel bars safer by replacing them with grab bars?

6- Toilet paper holder- For those who have a hard time getting up from a seated position, Great Grabz's 10" grab bar can also be used as a toilet paper holder, while still maintaining its strength of supporting 250lbs of force.

Spa Shower for 2

2010-03-02T16:21:00.000-05:00

As a bathroom designer, I learn a great deal about my clients and their showering habits. Many Baby Boomers find that they finally have time to pamper themselves and their spouse for the first time in their married life. Shower and bathing together is one of life's simple pleasures.

Here are a few quick measures to ensure great shower design and performance:

* The minimum width for any shower is 36" and the length should be at least 60" for 2 people.
* Installing 2 shower heads on separate diverters, one wall mounted and one handheld allows for enhanced showering and easy cleaning.
* Shower arms should be set at 84" off the finished floor to accommodate taller bathers.
* Handheld shower head installed on a slide bar allows for flexible showering styles.
* The optimum distance from most body sprays is 30".
* Shower ceilings should not exceed 8 feet in cooler climates.
* Glass enclosures should be a minimum of 3" above the shower head.
* Shower seats and benches should be 18" off floor and at least 14" deep.
* Grab bars should be placed in areas where bathers are stepping in and out of the shower as well as where they are likely to transfer weight on to one leg. (Washing feet, shaving legs etc.)

It is important to ask questions and find out who and how people will be using the shower. A great design can greatly enhance the spa feel of any bathroom.

source

Benefits of Aging In Place for your Community

2010-02-15T09:41:00.000-05:00

I live in Naples, Florida where we are blessed to have a large elderly population. Some in our society may think this is a shortcoming in the community, but it is one of our greatest assets. This issue is explored by the Partners for Livable Communities and the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging in their Aging in Place Initiative. “With sizeable amounts of free time and disposable money, a majority of older Americans act as economic generators, philanthropists and volunteers in a community.”

The area prospers when our senior community is able live safely and independently in their residences and get out of their homes to do things in the area. This is one of the reasons why the Sunbelt is such an attractive location for year round residences. There are few days of being snow or ice bound. Shops, restaurants, libraries and parks are utilized when much of the working and school age population are engaged and there is excess capacity. Our community would loose on many levels if seniors are not able to stay be engaged in volunteerism, philanthropy and recreation. Visit the library on any afternoon and to see seniors generously giving their time to teach adults to read and speak English as a second language, and to tell stories to pre-school children.
photo source

“The main purpose of having older Americans age in place is to make them feel comfortable in their surroundings. If the elderly cannot enjoy their latter years due to service, accessibility and program constraints, communities must reevaluate their priorities.” It is our responsibility to develop homes that can be lived in for a lifetime, communities that are welcoming and accessible and public areas that are universally designed to be enjoyed by our diverse and rich population."

Source: http://www.nw.org/Network/comstrat/agingInPlace/documents/agingInPlaceFAQ_000.pdf

Things to consider for Aging In Place design

2010-01-29T10:23:00.000-05:00

** Today's guest blogger:

Abbie Sladick, CGR, a certified Aging in Place Specialist by the National Association of Homebuilders and expert in Universal Design, has consulted on many articles and publications. She is a member of the advisory council for the National Kitchen and Bath Association and has also sat on the American Society of Interior Designer’s (ASID) National Council on Aging in Place and Universal Design. She was recently recognized by Qualified Remodeler Magazine as a Top 500 Remodeler, and has received the Master Design Award for Universal Design. Sladick also founded and oversees two companies: Abbie Joan Enterprises www.abbiejoan.com, a remodeling firm specializing in interior remodeling projects, and Great Grabz,www.greatgrabz.com, a designers and manufacturer of decorative grab bars and safety fixtures.

This past weekend, I took a ride to visit my aunt and uncle who live about 2 hours away. They have just moved from a story townhouse with the master on the first floor to a 3 bedroom apartment. This has been a year of tremendous physical and emotional stress for them. The move could not have come at a better time.

My uncle is 85 and is a bipedal amputee from diabetes. He loves an active life and exercises, but moving from standing to sitting is becoming more difficult. My aunt is 78 and is having many issues that are slowing her down and creating balance problems. She has always been a take charge person and truly resents these physical changes.

They made the decision to move this fall. Luckily they sold there home in 2 weeks. They decided to rent vs. purchase to limit monthly expenses and allow them to be more flexible in the upcoming years. It is a very good time to rent in Boca Raton, Florida.

When they purchased their home 16 years ago, they thought that it would be their last residence. The townhouse had all of the Aging in Place and accessibility modifications that we could think of. There were ramps at the entrances, well placed grab bars, a roll in shower, and many kitchen modifications to make life easier. This fall they decided this was not enough. Simple physical tasks became overwhelming and they put the house on the market.

The tasks that became overwhelming are everyday activities that we might take for granted.

Getting things out of the car and maneuvering their cart in the standard 2 car garage.
Carrying the laundry across the house from the utility room to the bedroom.
Rolling the garbage and recycling up the short drive.
There larger home required constant maintenance and this created added stress.

The move to a smaller apartment with a common parking garage and elevator eliminated many of these problems. Maintenance is always one call away and there is a garbage shoot at the door. It may be farther to walk from the car to the front door, but a cart is always handy for carrying and balance.

This visit opened my eyes to the fact that we can make many great home modification suggestions, but ensuring that money is spent on the right residence is very important. Living in a stressful physical and financial situation can limit people’s ability to stay independent.

They now have a few new Great Grabz grab bars in their bathroom and they are living a much more comfortable and secure life. They are entertaining friends, becoming more social in the building and needing less assistance from family. It was a great Aging in Place decision – Just a new place.

The Principles of Universal Design

2010-01-12T09:01:00.000-05:00

The beginning of a New Year is always a good time to look back on what we have accomplished of the past 365 days, review the basics and make exciting plans for the year ahead. The University of North Carolina's Center for Universal Design has published a very easy to reference chart of 7 principles. Take a few minutes to review them … dream big...and change the world one room at a time.

The design of products and environments to be usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialized design.

1: Principle One: Equitable Use

The design is useful and marketable to people with diverse abilities

GUIDELINES

Provide the same means of use for all users: identical whenever possible;
equivalent when not.
Avoid segregating or stigmatizing any users.
Provisions for privacy, security, and safety should be equally available to all users.
Make the design appealing to all users.

2: Principle Two: Flexibility in Use

The design accommodates a wide range of individual preferences and abilities.

GUIDELINES

Provide choice in methods of use.
Accommodate right- or left-handed access and use.
Facilitate the user's accuracy and precision.
Provide adaptability to the user's pace.

3: Principle Three: simple and intuitive

Use of the design is easy to understand, regardless of the user's experience, knowledge, language skills, or current concentration level.

GUIDELINES

Eliminate unnecessary complexity.
Be consistent with user expectations and intuition.
Accommodate a wide range of literacy and language skills.
Arrange information consistent with its importance.
Provide effective prompting and feedback during and after task completion.

4: Principle Four: Perceptible Information

The design communicates necessary information effectively to the user, regardless of ambient conditions or the user's sensory abilities.

GUIDELINES

Use different modes (pictorial, verbal, tactile) for redundant presentation of essential information.
Provide adequate contrast between essential information and its surroundings.
Maximize "legibility" of essential information.
Differentiate elements in ways that can be described (i.e., make it easy to give instructions or directions).
Provide compatibility with a variety of techniques or devices used by people with sensory limitations.

5: Principle Five: Tolerance for Error

The design minimizes hazards and the adverse consequences of accidental or unintended actions.
GUIDELINES

Arrange elements to minimize hazards and errors: most used elements, most accessible; hazardous elements eliminated, isolated, or shielded.
Provide warnings of hazards and errors.
Provide fail safe features.
Discourage unconscious action in tasks that require vigilance.

6: Principle Six: Low Physical Effort

The design can be used efficiently and comfortably and with a minimum of fatigue.

GUIDELINES

Allow user to maintain a neutral body position.
Use reasonable operating forces.
Minimize repetitive actions.
Minimize sustained physical effort

7: Principle Seven: Size and Space for Approach and Use

Appropriate size and space is provided for approach, reach, manipulation, and use regardless of user's body size, posture, or mobility.

GUIDELINES

Provide a clear line of sight to important elements for any seated or standing user.
Make reach to all components comfortable for any seated or standing user.
Accommodate variations in hand and grip size.
Provide adequate space for the use of assistive devices or personal assistance.

Please note:
These Principles of Universal Design:

address only universally usable design, while the practice of design involves more than consideration for usability. Designers must also incorporate other considerations such as economic, engineering, cultural, gender, and environmental concerns in their design processes.
offer designers guidance to better integrate features that meet the needs of as many users as possible. All Guidelines may not be relevant to all designs.

There are also the Universal Design, Principles & Guidelines available through Trace Research and Development Center. On their website you will find additional references and information about Universal Design.

State University, The Center for Universal Design. “The Principles of Universal Design were conceived and developed by The Center for Universal Design at North Carolina State University. Use or application of the Principles in any form by an individual or organization is separate and distinct from the Principles and does not constitute or imply acceptance or endorsement by The

Center for Universal Design of the use or application.”

Universal Design in a Can

2010-01-08T11:36:00.000-05:00

Here is a FUN and universally designed product.

“Batter Blaster“ is pancake and waffle mix in a pressurized can for quick and easy breakfasts. The product is the brain child of Sean O’Connor. It was introduced in 2005 and has sold over 5 million cans. This fun- to- use product is great for the youngest to the oldest breakfast lover, whether they have full abilities or may have limited physical abilities.

You may be thinking ………this product is ridiculous…… but it brings out a great point about where our society should be going in Universal Design.

Products should have to have a Positive Emotional Appeal.

Fun
Beautiful
Great to touch
Engaging

Many of the solutions available in the past have been institutional in feel and have evoked negative emotional reaction. With the number of Baby Boomers growing by the day, it is now the time to introduce products that empower, enable and appeal.

Have a great day!

Hana Hammer

How Green is Green?

2010-01-08T08:48:00.000-05:00

Are you thinking about “Going Green” for the New Year? Like any New Year’s Resolution, it is hard to keep if you plan to do it all at once.

Where do you begin? If you are one of the thousands of home owners in the US planning a bathroom remodel in 2010 you have found a great place to start.

Begin by asking yourself a few questions. Do materials ultimately determine what shade of green a bath will be or does the water usage in the bathroom once it is in use by the home owner determine how green the space is? I believe that the answer is a personal one. Green is in the eye of the beholder.

Here are some ways that a bathroom can be green:

Conservation of water usage - by using a Low Flow Shower Heads you save up to 30% on your water usage without sacrificing a great shower

Energy efficient lights and heating can save dollars and minimize your impact on the grid.

Recycled glass tiles make a beautiful design statement and are a great re-use of materials.

Materials from local sources minimizes your carbon footprint. If you are lucky enough to live in an area with a Cabinetry Company you can use regionally grown woods by local trades people.

Universal Design of the space. Click Here to read more on how Universal Design is Green.

Re-use of “grey water” from the bathroom to the garden.

On-demand water heaters have been in use worldwide for years. They are a great way to save space, save water and energy.

Anti-Microbial coatings in areas where water can deposit is a effective way of preventing the spread of germs in the bathroom.

The discussion of green often promotes more questions than answers, but it offers the bath designer and the homeowner an incredible opportunity to explore options and come up with an amazing end result. New products are introduced daily giving us more design opportunities and tools to be greener than ever before.

Happy New Year!

Hana Hammer

Sink Positive about Green

2010-01-05T09:35:00.000-05:00

According to the World Health Organization “water scarcity affects one in three people on every continent and is getting worse as water needs rise with population growth, urbanization and the increased usage by households and industry.”

This situation is no longer just a concern of third world countries. With California in its third year of drought this is a situation that requires our attention in new home construction, remodeling and appliance purchases. Thoughtful design addresses not just form and function, but careful use of resources, both monetary and environmental. Each of us can make a difference.

Here is a fun product that thinks out of the box. It is called the "Sink Positive". It saves water and space, is hygienic by being hands free and is interactive for all ages. What a great way to get the kids to wash there hands!

Source

Being Green can be fun and a shown here doesn't have to be a lot of hard work. Let us know about other fun green items that you have found.

Hana Hammer

Keeping it in Focus

2010-01-03T20:54:00.000-05:00

5:45 am - The alarm goes off and it is time to pop out of bed to head for the gym. So much time and energy trying to keep toned and tight, than ......as I head to the bathroom and look in the mirror, I am confronted by a mean trick of aging. I can’t see anything close up!

Each day over 45, it seems that I am being slowly mocked by Mother Nature. As we age, the elasticity of the lens of our eyes becomes worse and it is more difficult for our eyes to naturally adjust to changes in light and vision conditions.

Now like millions of others, I am constantly reaching for my reading glasses, but the reality is I am not ready to wear them on a chain around my neck. Reading glasses also have some major draw backs in the bathroom – they fog and get in the way.

Through no fault of its own, the bathroom is generally the most improperly lit room in one’s home. Because it is frequently the smallest room in the home, many people think that a single light fixture can sufficiently illuminate the entire space. The bathroom is a place in which a range of functions are preformed, and each task must be illuminated properly.

Here are a few easy tips to make your morning easier and to keep you bright and in focus:

Use a lit magnifying makeup mirror. They come in both wall mounted and vanity styles. There are a variety of magnifying strengths 5x, 10x and even 20x. Try before you buy to make sure you like the strength. I found that more was not always better. There are a few pores and wrinkles I like to keep hidden……even from myself.
Make sure that you have adequate light in the shower. For safety reasons the light in showers needs have a sealed cover, but with regular cleaning and an adequate strength bulb it is much easier to read shampoo and conditioner labels.
Decorative tiles can be beautiful and can also be a great way to highlight changes in floor heights in the shower. No one wants to trip and fall stepping over the curb of the shower.
Lighting your vanity requires strategic placement of a lighting fixture above the vanity mirror. To achieve sufficiently bright vanity lighting, the vanity fixture should hold at least 150 watts and it should be at least 24 inches long. For an even glow, the fixture should be mounted 75 to 80 inches above the floor.
Keeping a spare pair of glasses or magnifying lens in the medicine cabinet is a smart thing to do! It is to easy to take incorrect dosages or drugs by not being able to read the tiny writing.

Physical aging is not always fun, but how great is it to live in a time when there are No rules on the who we are and what we do at what age.

A Birthday Wish....

2009-12-23T09:28:00.000-05:00

One morning while sponging brackish water from a two piece toilet whose tank I'd unseated while climbing out of our shower-tub, I asked my wife, who was soaping up the water that had leaked from the shower onto the linoleum floor, what she'd like for her birthday. It was idle conversation, meant to shift the focus from our moldy, depressing bathroom to something light and cheerful. But my wife took the question seriously and her plaintive answer cut me to the quick.

"You know what I want for my birthday?" she said, sitting on the edge of the grungy avocado-colored tub in which we'd bathed our two babies, both of whom are now in college."I want a grown up bathroom."

It is impossible to convey just how profoundly her words struck me. A grown-up bathroom. It was like a slap in the face. I stopped my sponging and took a good, hard look at our 60's-era bathroom, with the mushy moldy drywall; the dust-encrusted ceiling fan and the metal medicine cabinet speckled with rust. The scales fell from my eyes. I, too, wanted a grown-up bathroom. We all want a grown up bathroom, don't we? Not someplace where we hurriedly do our business and wash our face, but someplace pleasant. A retreat. Nay, a sanctuary. According to the National Kitchen and Bath Assn., the average person visits the toilet 2,500 times a year. And spends about three years of his or her life in the bathroom. Three years!

Now think about that, then say the truth with me and it will set you free. "I want a grown up bathroom."

Because the minute you acknowledge the truth, you will be transformed. From your bosom will spring forth all sorts of repressed desires. Like the fact that you don't just want a new bathtub; you want a soaking tub. With air jets! And constant hot water that you'll never have to use the word "tepid" again!

Source: David Lansing, March 6, 2005 latimes.com/features/printedition/magazine

/la-tm-lansing10mar06,0,2110193.story

Bathroom remodeling in 2010 is a hot topic! We all do want a grown up bathroom and there are some many design features that that will not create a retreat today, but also ensure a safe place for us to enjoy in the future.

Here are a few "Universal Design" features to consider when planning your new bath:

Walk in shower with no curb.
Decorative non-slip tile surfaces for bathroom flooring.
Grab bars as towel bars and toilet paper holders.
Magnifying make up mirror.

Tell us about the things that you have (or want in your grown up bathroom!!!

Is Universal Design Green?

2009-10-19T13:14:00.000-04:00

It was 5 years ago that John Salmen and I sat down to breakfast at The Biltmore at Coral Gables and discussed the future of Great Grabz, universal design and our aging population. We are in 2009, and the future is now. Here is a wonderful article written by one of the country's most innovative thinkers in the practical application of Universal Design in hospitality, commercial and residential projects. John Salmen is the founder of Universal Designers & Consultants at www.UniversalDesign.com and produces an online newsletter that should be on your reading list.

Universal Design Newsletter, Vol. 9, No. 8 (Oct. 2009)

Is UD Green?

By John P.S. Salmen, AIA

Inevitably, this question must be raised. As public awareness of green design swells to a tidal wave, many Students of UD think we see the next wave approaching – and its name is Universal Design.

But how do these waves relate to each other? Are they random swells? Or caused by undersea movement of the earth’s crust?

Valerie Fletcher, Executive Director of the Institute for Human Centered Design, and Elaine Ostroff, Founding Director along with Eric Mikiten, AIA of the Bay Area COTE, believe that they are both connected to the earth shaking movement of Sustainability. Eric presented his overview in detail at the AIA 2009 convention.

The trefoil logo, developed by the Department of Public Works of Queensland, Australia for its Smart House program. (www.build.qld.gov.au/smart_housing/elements/index.asp), communicated how these three universal design leaders visualize the “ three–legged stool of sustainable design.” The graphic above illustrates how universal design is a basic element of sustainable design, as it relates to resource efficiency and economic empowerment under the umbrella of environmental, economic and social sustainability.

Environmental sustainability relates to the green movement and natural resource conservation and efficiency. Economic sustainability relates to concepts of life cycle costing, equity and fair trade value of products and services.

Social sustainability relates to systems that support people by creating safe, secure and independent communities.

When compared to financial and natural resources, human ability is arguably the most precious resource of all. Human ability is enabled, supported and encouraged by a universally designed environment that gives everyone the opportunity to participate with a minimum of outside support. Just as we must conserve our natural resources, we must also conserve our human resources. It is a waste of human potential to create environments that demand dependence when a simple change in the design of the path, space or element could allow un-assisted use. Like “green design” universal design must be an integral part of design programming and the imaginative design process. It cannot be left as an add-on in a minimal compliance mode.

The relationship between two people who are locked in the care giver/receiver dance, while frequently a loving and enriching experience, is difficult, uncomfortable, and too often destructive of human dignity. Independence is best and can be extended with universal design. The obvious example is aging in place, which is facilitated by universally designed homes and communities.

As we struggle to make the most of limited resources, the value of universal design as a tool to conserve human resources will become increasingly apparent, and its relationship to the broader goal of sustainability will become clear.

The link to sign up for the newsletter is at www.UniversalDesign.com then they just click on the Subscribe Now button.

Universal Design Living Laboratory (UDLL) Groundbreaking on 9/23 a Success!

2009-09-30T09:43:00.000-04:00

09.24.2009 – More than 100 people including regional media attended ground breaking for the “National Demonstration Home” will be the first of its kind in the U.S.A. Part home and part educational lab – the Frank Lloyd Wright inspired project will incorporate universal design, green and healthy building elements. The Universal Design Living Laboratory is a national demonstration home and garden design project that will bring attention to three critical architectural design and building concepts: universal design, green sustainable building and healthy chemical-free materials.

This home will not only serve as the residence of project leaders Rosemarie Rossetti, Ph.D. and Mark Leder, but also will be used to teach residential and commercial builders, architects, landscape architects, designers, interior designers, manufacturer’s representatives/distributors, and home buyers. The 3,500 square foot ranch-style home will incorporate the finest craftsmanship and state-of-the-art products, technology and services.

Rosemarie Rossetti, Ph.D., internationally known speaker and advocate for people with disabilities with her husband, Mark Leder, are leading the national project. Rossetti and Leder married on June 10, 1995. Three years later, the couple’s lives were transformed forever while bicycling on a sunny afternoon. A 3.5 ton tree came crashing down on Rossetti. She was paralyzed from the waist down with a spinal cord injury – this was the beginning of a remarkable new journey. Visit UDLL.com or email Rosemarie at rosemarie@udll.com.

Adaptmy.com

2009-09-29T16:29:00.000-04:00

www.Adaptmy.com is a new web store dedicated to the Universal Design market. Click HERE to learn more.

Summer of Safety: Great Grabz partners with leading hotel chains to keep their bathrooms safe and stylish

2009-09-22T12:29:00.000-04:00

Press Release: Summer of Safety: Great Grabz partners with leading hotel chains to keep their bathrooms safe and stylish

Tools to Aging Well

2009-08-10T10:58:00.000-04:00

Life is busy, but as time clock continues to tick it is important to pamper our souls and our bodies. Managing a busy schedule can be stressful and it is this stress which increases the effects of aging on our bodies. Whether at home or away, every one starts and ends the day in the bathroom. This space should be an inviting, functional, and safe sanctuary that you can enjoy. Here are a few home improvement suggestions to make your bathroom the ideal place where to give your body the attention it needs to age well.

Lighting - Great lighting is the key to creating a functional and comfortable task area. Lights should come from more than one source. This helps to eliminate shadows and to clearly light all facial surfaces. Over head lighting combined with vanity sconces or lighted makeup mirrors are a great combination. Adequate lighting in the shower is important for safe stepping and to make reading labels on bottles more helpful.

Bring a bit of the spa home. A new trend for showers today is Chromatherapy, which is color light therapy. The use of colored lights is said to balance energy in the body as well as to help change a person’s mood. Many companies have incorporated this type of lighting into their shower heads to create a more relaxing shower experience. Retro-fit models can be purchased at your local home store and are easy to install.

Vanity Areas- Making space in your bathroom to sit can not only be a luxury, but it can be a back saver as well. Bending over a low vanity of holding a heavy blow dryer day after day can create unnecessary aches and pains. This space is also a great area to keep are cosmetics, medications etc. Organization is a key to reducing morning stress. A built in or stand alone vanity should have good storage space and easy to reach electrical outlets. This is also an ideal spot for lighted magnified mirrors. They come in a variety of magnification strengths and make it much easier to applying makeup, do skin cancer self checks and dental care.

Washlets – For many years the Japanese have enjoyed the luxury and convenience of self washing toilets. At first glance this may seem like an exotic idea, but upon further consideration you may find this to be a great part of your health maintenance routine. An integrated, self-cleaning nozzle extends to release a warm, soothing stream of aerated water, followed by a breeze of heated air for drying. These combined features provide the ultimate in personal cleansing. The Washlet can be attached to the seat of most standard toilets. A nearby electrical outlet must be available and can be easily added by a licensed electrician. These seats can be purch

ased from area plumbing showrooms and installed by a plumber.

Showers- Saving the best for last, there is no better way to start feel pampered than having a luxurious shower.

· Just as with the vanity area, having a seat in the shower is both safe and relaxing. It can be used for feet washing, leg shaving, or just a nice place to stay and let the warm water rush over you. A handheld shower device on a slide bar is also ideal to use while seated.

· Handhold showers are also great for when you don’t want to get your hair wet as well as great way to clean a big shower.

· Because of the wet surface, the shower can be the most dangerous place in the bathroom. To ensure safety in your bathroom sanc

tuary you should have a zero threshold shower entry to minimize risk of tripping. This also gives the shower a spa-like look.

· Grab bars are a great idea for the shower as well. Gone are the days where grab bars look institutional now you can buy grab bars that are both beautiful and safe without taking away from the design of your bathroom.

· For the ultimate relaxation, add a steam shower to your bathroom. A steam shower is an enclosure that merges a steam bath and a regular shower into one. Not only are steam showers calming, but they are also good for sinus infection relief, increases blood circulation, and flush out toxins and other impurities in the system.

A well designed and thoughtfully appointed bathroom can make it easy to pamper your self and enjoy comfortable time at the start end of every day. Men and women a like will enjoy some of the new amenities that are now available to make it easier to look and feel great.

Keeping Chefs of all Ages Safe

2009-03-16T21:28:00.001-04:00

Microwaves have become an indispensible appliance in most American kitchens, but how did they come top be placed over the range? In and effort to save money and make kitchens smaller, home builders of the 80’s started installing combination built-in microwave-exhaust hoods above the range.

Placing the microwave over the range or cook top has caused many accidents and continues to present safety hazards for chefs of all ages.

Heavy pans can tip when lifting out of an overhead microwave.

Burns can be caused when steaming pots are on the range and the microwave is in use.

Children can climb up on the range to use the microwave and be injured by hot burners.

Having 2 cooking functions in one area can cause accidents during busy prep time.

Here are a few great locations for safe and family friendly microwave locations.

A microwave can be placed on the counter top and built into cabinetry. This will allow for easy transfer from the counter into the appliance. (Above 36”)

Drawer microwaves can be placed under the counter top. They are easy to use and they allow for lifting up of warmed foods vs. lifting down. These can also be used from a seated position. (Below 36”)

A microwave can be installed under a raised counter top. This a great way to conceal the box but keep the buttons at a height the whole family can use. (Below 42”)

Great kitchen design starts with pre-planning. Microwave and appliance placement is the one of the first steps to ensuring a functional and safe kitchen. For more thoughts on safe kitchen design feel free to contact abbie@abbiejoan.com

Great Microwave Recipe

Healthy Potato Chips

PREP TIME
30 Min
COOK TIME
5 Min
READY IN
35 Min
SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 potato, sliced paper thin (peel optional)
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste

DIRECTIONS
Pour the vegetable oil into a plastic bag (a produce bag works well). Add the potato slices, and shake to coat.
Coat a large dinner plate lightly with oil or cooking spray. Arrange potato slices in a single layer on the dish.
Cook in the microwave for 3 to 5 minutes, or until lightly browned (if not browned, they will not become crisp). Times will vary depending on the power of your microwave. Remove chips from plate, and toss with salt (or other seasonings). Let cool. Repeat process with the remaining potato slices. You will not need to keep oiling the plate.

How was safe was your stay?

2009-02-17T20:26:00.000-05:00

Hotels around the world are updating and upgrading to meet the demands of the more discriminating traveller. It has become one of my favorite past times while travelling to evaluate the form and function of the hotel rooms.

I am not getting younger and neither are you. Are the hotel designers doing a good job of keeping us comfortable and safe while we are in our home away from home?

Is there enough light to read in bed?
Is there enough light to put on make up on in the bathroom or in the room?
Is there a night light?
Is there a safe way to get into the shower?
Can I read the writing on the little bottles when I am in the shower?
Does the tub have no slip surface?
Is the bathroom floor slippery when wet?

These are just a few things to think about the next time you are in a hotel. Be critical and keep yourself safe. Using the comment card is a great way be heard and to help management give travellers the best possible experience.

Happy travels and send us photos of the best and the worst bathroom designs!

Tips for a Great Remodel

2009-01-27T16:07:00.000-05:00

The bathroom is one of the most personal spaces in the home. It is where the day starts and where the day ends. It is the place where we put on our “face” for the rest of the world to see.

Here are some of my tips for a successful project:

Let your imagination run wild! Cut out pictures in magazines. Think about the great hotel bathrooms you have seen. Consider all of the possibilities and then pick and choose your favorites. This should be a fun process and best of all it does not cost a thing!

Do some fact finding! Who will be using the bathroom? Have everyone make a list of what they do in the bathroom. (It may sound funny, but it is an important in creating a functional space.)

Let the light shine! Look at the natural light in the space. Is the existing lighting sufficient in day and evening? If not, task lighting can be a great addition to your space. Add a lighted make up mirror to your vanity or a reading light over the commode or tub.

Plan to keep it organized! What do you would like to store in the bathroom? Make sure you have a spot for things like cosmetics, towels, toys or plug in grooming items? Great solutions include mirrored medicine cabinets, counter top appliance garages, drawer organizers and shower baskets.

Keep it safe! Safety is for everyone in the family. This is the right time to add those special touches. Make sure that you have lots of safe places to hold throughout the bathroom. Great Grabz has a super selection of towel bars; grab bars, toilet paper holders and more.

Plan for the future! Whether it is a skiing accident, knee replacement or a bad back you should be able to easily install grab bars where needed. Install wood backing behind the walls next to the commode, at the shower entry and in the shower or tub. When looking at new flooring make sure that it has a non-slip surface.

Determine your budget and stick to it! Whether your budget is big or small, be honest with the professionals that you are working with and they will give you the greatest value for the dollar.

Use licensed professional contractors! They say that a remodeling project can take years off your life and jeopardize the strongest of marriages. Minimize anxiety by using professionals, who show up on time, do what they say and help you avoid some of the common pitfalls of the DYI Project.

Ask for references! There are many people that can be involved in transforming your bathroom. This is the best way to make sure you are getting reliable and honest individuals. Remember they are coming into your home and they are going to make a mess.

Good luck with your project and feel free to send over any remodeling questions to abbie@abbiejoan.com.

Join Me In "The Race" - Women Supporting Women

2009-01-15T16:16:00.000-05:00

Ladies as a fellow female entrepreneur I am always looking for ways to increase the revenue for my business. I have to share with you a unique and very special organization that will help you on your path to success in doing so. Count Me In - the organization for women’s economic independence is the single most worthwhile organization you should join. Women business owners who participate in their “Make Mine A Million $” business program see increases of revenue up to 40%. Why? Because Count Me In provides you with the resources and tools to make your business a success.

Count Me In founder, Nell Merlino (who also instituted Take Your Daughter To Work Day) has partnered the organization with corporate sponsors like OPEN from American Express, JetBlue, Dell, FedEx, Sam’s Club, Reader’s Digest and other organizations that are committed to helping women take their business revenues to a million dollars or more. (If that isn’t credible, I don’t know what is!)

Starting in 2009, Count Me In will be sponsoring The Make Mine a Million $ Business Race, I encourage - no I implore each and everyone of you to register for this event that will change your business.

HERE’S HOW IT WORKS
Register early, set your 2009 revenue goal at $250,000, $500,000 or $1mm. Take advantage of our recommended preparation tips before the M3 RACE begins. (You will be given this information once you register)

WHAT DO YOU GET?
Starting January 27, at the click of a mouse, you will have access to experts, resources, and opportunities tailored for YOU! You are never alone.

* Cutting-edge on-line business assessment with expert advice and education* Personalized “dashboard” to track your goals and annual revenue* Social network to find other M3 RACE participants and post questions* Invitations to three national educational and networking events* Opportunities to reach new national markets with partners like American Express OPEN, Reader’s Digest, Dell and Sam’s Club* Promotion through local and national TV, newspapers, magazines, radio, and blogs

Prizes and national recognition for crossing your personal finish line, as well as the chance to win our Grand Prize of $100,000 cash for your business with national PR, advertising and press for your business, and other business-boosting and work-life-balancing prizes for success on the national and state level. Because of the level of expertise that will be offered to the participants of this program, there is an entry fee. It is just $100 (About the cost of a good haircut.)

The Make Mine a Million $ Business RACE is an exciting year-long business growth marathon to support you in becoming a successful and productive business owner and help rebuild our nation’s economy.

1. What is the Make Mine a Million $ Business RACE (M3 RACE)?
No, you don’t have to run. The Make Mine a Million $ Business RACE is an exciting year-long business growth marathon to support you in becoming a successful and productive business owner and help rebuild our nation’s economy.

Just like the walk/run marathons that you know to benefit breast cancer research and other causes, you can choose your own pace for your 2009 business revenue goal: $250,000, $500K, or one million dollars or more!

Whether you have a business or are just starting one, we will help you “train” by assessing your business strengths and weaknesses, introducing you to coaches, peer groups and experts, increasing your access to new markets, financing and national recognition so you can grow, create jobs where you live and provide economic stability for your families, communities and the country.

2. Why should I enter the M3 RACE?
There has never been a better time to focus on exactly what you want for your business and what it will take to get it. Now is your time to stand up and count yourself in.
Enter the M3 RACE to:
* Become a more successful and productive business owner* Run and enjoy a balanced life as a woman, entrepreneur and/or mother* Take the mystery out of running a business* Create your own personal vision for your business* Manage and control your business and keep it from controlling you* Delegate to gain the results you want* Exceed your customer’s expectations so they return and promote you to others* Find, attract, hire and keep excellent employees* Achieve and surpass a million $ or more in annual revenue more quickly.

3. What do I get by entering the M3 RACE?
By joining the M3 RACE starting January 27, you will have access to support and assistance that has never before been available to women entrepreneurs.
* You are never alone. Support, tools and guidance to prepare you for the M3 RACE.* Online business assessment tool to help you identify where your business stands and what you need to reach your 2009 goal* Your own personalized Dashboard where you can track your short term goals and annual revenue, find other M3 RACE participants and post questions* Exposure for your product or service to new audiences* Access to three national events, which will include intensive workshops and competitions for business-boosting and work-life-balancing prizes* Opportunities to reach new national markets with partners like American Express OPEN, Reader’s Digest, Dell and Sam’s Club and promotion through local and national TV, newspapers, magazines, radio and blogs* Prizes and national recognition for crossing your personal finish line, as well as the chance to win our Grand Prize of $100,000 cash for your business and national PR, advertising and press for your business and other prizes for success on the national and state level.

4. When does the Make Mine a Million $ Business RACE Begin and End?
The M3 RACE starts online at www.makemineamillion.org on January 27, 2009, where you sign up to race and declare your revenue goals for the year and get ready for the journey of a lifetime!
Registration: December 15, 2008 thru June 30, 2009
The M3 RACE ends on midnight, December 31, 2009 and winners will be announced in February 2010.

5. How do I enter the Make Mine a Million $ Business RACE?
It’s easy! Enter the M3 RACE The race starts on January 27th. The new updated website will be posted on that day. Do not be discouraged by the current website.

6. Who is eligible?
* Own a business or have an idea for a new business* 18 years or older* U.S. Citizen or legal resident* Female* Business is at least 50% women owned

7. What do I win?
You win just by being in the M3 RACE. On average, women who have participated in the Make Mine a Million $ Business program have increased their revenue and job growth rate by more than 40% within 12 months.

By joining the M3 RACE, you will have an opportunity to be part of a community of women entrepreneurs across the country growing their businesses, creating jobs and providing for their families. We are in it together.

8. What are the prizes?
The Grand Prize winner will receive a $100,000 cash prize and a year’s worth of marketing, advertising and press opportunities.
Runner up winners from all 50 states and in 15 business sector categories receive a coveted prize package including one-on-one business coaching, technology products, media exposure, access to financing and new markets, and products and services like grocery delivery services to help them manage their families and household. Stay tuned for more…
*Prizes are subject to change.

9. How do I win?
Judging criteria is based on:
* Sales levels (compared to base year)* Percentage revenue growth (compared to base year)* Percentage employee growth* Business net worth* Profitability after owner(s) draw
Certification of figures: Count Me In will require your assistance in collecting figures to evaluate your business growth. You will be required to enter monthly metrics. All figures will be confidential and not disclosed or shared with third parties.

Winners will be selected based on company-submitted information, but will not be officially named until Count Me In has received and reviewed either tax returns or CPA prepared financials for 2008 and certification of sales for 2009. This information must be provided no later than February 1, 2010.

10. Is there an entry fee?
Yes. To provide you with the best coaches and experts, a dynamic online business assessment tool, and a national network of women just like you, there is an entry fee of $100.

11. What if my 2008 sales already exceeded $1 million?
Congratulations! We encourage you to register for the M3 RACE so you can continue to grow your multi-million dollar business. We will also expose you to media opportunities, send you information relevant to your stage of business growth, invite you to mentor other women and speak on expert panels.

12. How can men get involved?
Men can support women in the Make Mine a Million $ Business RACE as business partners, vendors, employees and contractors. As husbands, brothers, fathers, sons and friends, you can pay the registration fee for a woman you know.

13. Who is supporting the Make Mine a Million $ Business RACE?
Our supporters are growing everyday. Today, the Make Mine a Million $ Business RACE is supported by our founding partner American Express OPEN, Cisco, Dell, Sam’s Club, and Reader’s Digest.

14. How do I support the M3 RACE?
There are a number of ways that you can support a Make Mine a Million $ Business RACE.
To sponsor a racer, you can:
* Buy their products* Tell your friends about them* Begin a movement in your neighborhood to support the M3 RACE. Click here to make a tax free donation to Count Me In. Count Me In for Women’s Economic Independence is a 501c3 organization. For information about becoming a corporate sponsor, contact jhamerman@countmein.org.

15. Why is Count Me In launching Make Mine a Million $ Business RACE?
There are 10.5 million women owned businesses in the United States today, yet only 3%, or 250,000, generate a million dollars or more in annual revenue. With the right support, tools, and encouragement we can all surpass a million dollars in business revenue, create jobs for our communities, and help rebuild America’s economy. If one million women grow their businesses to one million dollars in revenue, we will have created 4 million new jobs and $700 billion in economic activity. Count Me In believes there is no better moment to inspire a movement of women’s economic development.

Through our most successful business growth program, Make Mine a Million $ Business™, we have learned what propels women to grow sustainable and thriving businesses. That is why, Count Me In is launching the Make Mine a Million $ Business RACE — to pass on our knowledge to help thousands more women entrepreneurs succeed in hitting their goals in a year. The M3 RACE marks the beginning of a chain reaction that places the strength of one million women behind every entrepreneur’s success. This is our race to run, and we are in it together.

16. Who is Count Me In?
Count Me In for Women’s Economic Independence is the leading national not-for-profit provider of resources, business education, and community for women entrepreneurs. We believe in you, and we believe in the ability of women entrepreneurs to create jobs for our communities and provide thriving environments for their families and future generations through achieving and surpassing their goals of business growth. We also believe that to grow your business, you have to grow yourself. Count Me In is dedicated to providing inspiration, resources, and the community support women entrepreneurs need to scale their businesses to a million dollars in revenue and beyond.

As one of the most recent winners of the Micro to Millions Award, and a member of Count Me In, I have committed to be one of the Ambassadors to this program. If you have questions regarding Count Me In, The Race to a Million or just general questions, please don’t hesitate to ask. If I don’t know the answer, I will find out, or point you to the person who does. When you enter, please fill in the Promo Code with ASLA. This will let me know that you have joined and this way we can support each other as we race to increase our business revenue for 2009!

Thanks and much success,

Abbie Sladick

Keeping Families Safe and Healthy in the Bathroom

2009-01-12T14:16:00.000-05:00

With the winter winds blowing and the snow falling many families are feeling the effects of the flu and cold season. Sniffles can be heard everywhere, but as a mom, there is nothing more frustrating then having colds pass from family member to family member in MY own house. A new study finds that cold suffers often leave germs on surfaces throughout the house, where they can live for two days or longer.

The University of Virginia, tested surfaces around the home. "We found that commonly touched areas like the refrigerator, doors and handles were positive about 40% of the time for cold germs," said Dr. Birgit Winther, who helped conduct the study.

Wouldn't it be great to have surfaces that stopped the growth of these germs on contact. Well there is-- SANIGUARD -- and it is being in used in some innovative places. SANIGAURD uses the power of silver to stab, starve and stop reproduction of many germs once activated by the moisture from the human touch.

In 2009, this technology moves from hospitals to the home and to hotels. Great Grabz has made SANIGAURD a standard feature on all their decorative grab bars. They will also offer this coating on showerseats, shower baskets, towel bars and other bathroom accessories. One of the additional features of this product is that it protects the decorative finish of the metals and eliminates the need for harsh chemical for disinfecting. (think green!)

Many hotels and cruise ships are looking to this new technology to keep bathrooms shipshape. Guests appreciate this extra attention to detail. No one likes to get sick on vacation! At home or on vacation, another great way to keep your family healthy is Hands2GO instant sanitizer. It is alcohol-free, fragrance-free natural and water based.

Stay happy and healthy!

Aging in Place Resources

2009-01-09T15:24:00.000-05:00

Michael Thomas, FASID and Drue Lawlor, FASID have collaborated on one of the most useful resources that I have ever found on Aging in Place design. Their book, Residential Design for Aging in Place, is a resource for design professionals, remodelers, care givers and those thinking about their future.

The book explores all areas of the home, both risks and opportunities. As an example, the chapter, "Designing the Bathroom" reviews grab bar and shower seat placement, wall blocking, floor plans, and cabinetry design. There are great diagrams and photography to show how all of this comes together to create a great bathroom.

This book is a worthwhile investment, before starting any remodeling project.

Designers may also like to check out Michael's blog called Design/Build Interiors.

“I would rather fall than have my friends think I have a grab bar!”

2009-01-09T14:37:00.000-05:00

Those words changed the world of Abbie Sladick, sending her on a fantastic journey of creativity and innovation in a seemingly dull
industry.

For over eight years, Abbie had been making dreams come true by designing and remodeling extraordinary bathrooms for her clients. She used products from all over the world for her projects but when one of her clients refused to use a grab bar - Abbie was stumped.

How could she create a beautiful bathroom with an ugly grab bar? Never to be discouraged, Abbie decided if she couldn’t buy a stylish grab bar… then she would design one.

The company’s signature Wave bar was the result. Now Abbie and the Great Grab z team look towards the future redefining safety in the bathroom by creating stylish products that allow
people of all ages and abilities to maintain their dignity and independence.