Fox Chapel Residence - R3A Architecture

As individuals approach their later years, thoughtful consideration of their surroundings becomes essential to support aging in place. Maintaining independence, comfort, and safety within the home often calls for strategic modifications to key areas of the home. For this homeowner, we implemented universal design principles to enhance accessibility and functionality. The design team reimagined the existing bathroom to accommodate an enlarged, zero-threshold shower with integrated grab bars, a handheld shower wand, and a heated bench. These features will elevate the comfort of the space while supporting mobility and safety. By adding a laundry closet into the primary bathroom, we’ve eliminated the need to navigate stairs with cumbersome loads, further promoting autonomy and reducing fall risks. Together, these design elements ensure that the home remains functional and supportive as the homeowner’s needs evolve.

Completed

2025

Location

Fox Chapel

Size

130 SF

Program

Primary Bathroom, Mold Remediation, Enlarge Shower, Aging-in-Place, Main Level Laundry

MOLD REMEDIATION INDOOR AIR QUALITY

Bathrooms are highly vulnerable to mold growth due to the elevated humidity levels and multiple plumbing fixtures that can develop unexpected leaks. Mold can significantly reduce indoor environmental quality by causing respiratory issues, damaging structural components, and creating unpleasant odors. In this home, water damage became evident when stains appeared on the garage ceiling directly below the primary bathroom. The bathroom had been renovated 20 years earlier. However, the original installation did not include a moisture barrier behind the tile or adequate ventilation to manage humidity. Black mold was uncovered during demolition, requiring complete remediation and repair of the affected floor joists. A trimless, flush-mounted exhaust fan was installed to improve ventilation, providing effective moisture control while maintaining a clean, streamlined appearance.

APPROACH TO DESIGN DECISIONS

Effective space planning was essential to this project. The homeowners found the previous shower too small, lacking a bench, and presenting accessibility challenges during temporary times when mobility issues arose. However, three large windows on the northern exterior wall constrained design options. Another consideration was the deck-mounted tub, which occupied a significant floor area but was rarely used. By replacing it with a smaller, freestanding tub, we expanded the shower while accommodating potential future buyers who might prefer a soaking option. Although the bathroom previously had a second doorway connecting to the primary bedroom, this space was better utilized as a main-level laundry closet.

The original marble tile installation was classic, timeless, and beloved by the homeowner. However, the extensive mold remediation required the removal of the tile floors and wainscoting, and replicating the aged marble was not feasible. To stay within budget, the design team selected a terrazzo floor tile in a similar tone to the original marble. Through an extensive search, we found a near-perfect match for the Caribbean water glass mosaic tile, which was preserved above the vanity. Choosing a matte finish, the aqua mosaic beautifully complemented the overall tile palette. Polished chrome fixtures were selected throughout to facilitate easy cleaning. Recessed LED lighting was equally distributed across the angled ceilings, providing ample illumination designed to last for the next 60 years without replacement.

GENERAL CONTRACTOR PARTNERSHIP

Our collaboration with local general contractors continues to evolve as we expand our expertise and strengthen our integrated design approach. Engaging a general contractor early in the design phase has proven invaluable, allowing the entire project team to evaluate constructability, explore alternative solutions, and assess real-time pricing. This level of collaboration empowers homeowners with transparent, informed choices that align with both their design goals and financial parameters.

Our partnership with AKN Interiors exemplified the benefits of this integrated process. Through strategic selective demolition, we were able to verify existing site conditions, including plumbing fixture locations and the structural integrity of a pre-existing bulkhead—factors that could have introduced costly surprises later. By proactively addressing these elements in the design stage, we minimized risk, reduced potential delays, and optimized the construction timeline. This hands-on, collaborative approach ultimately supported a smoother, more efficient build and a higher level of client satisfaction.