Designing an Accessible Bungalow: Adapting a Home for Wheelchair Users

A wheelchair accessible bungalow needs a step-free way in, wide doorways, room to turn, and a bathroom and kitchen you can use from a seated position. Because a bungalow keeps the main living spaces on one floor, it is usually the easiest home style in Canada to adapt. This guide covers what to look for and what to change, room by room.

Why bungalows suit wheelchair users

Stairs are the main barrier in most homes. A bungalow puts the kitchen, living room, bedrooms and at least one bathroom on the same level.

That doesn’t make every bungalow accessible. Many have a few steps at the front door, narrow hallways and small bathrooms. The good news is that these are fixable without adding a lift between floors.

Some styles are easier than others. A standard detached bungalow or a condo bungalow often has fewer entry steps. A raised bungalow or split-level has stairs inside, which makes full access much harder.

Step one: a step-free entrance

Getting in and out safely comes first. Look at every door, including the garage door into the house.

• Ramps: need enough length for a gentle slope, plus level landings. Your contractor will follow Ontario Building Code requirements for slope and railings.
• Regrading: sometimes the walkway can be raised to meet the door with a gentle slope instead of a ramp.
• Garage entry: often the easiest place for a ramp, because it’s sheltered from snow.
• Platform lifts: an option where there’s no room for a ramp.

Think about winter too. A covered entry or heated mat helps keep the path clear of ice.

Doorways, hallways and floors

Inside, the goal is easy movement from room to room.

• Widen key doorways to 36 inches where possible.
• Use offset hinges as a cheaper option to gain a little width.
• Swap swinging doors for pocket or barn-style doors in tight spots.
• Remove raised thresholds between rooms.
• Choose smooth, firm flooring. Thick carpet makes rolling hard work.

Hallways in older GTA bungalows can be narrow. A contractor can tell you whether a non-structural wall can move to make space for turning.

An accessible bathroom

The bathroom is usually the biggest project. Plan it carefully with an occupational therapist and an experienced contractor.

Key features

• A curbless, roll-in shower with a built-in or fold-down seat.
• A handheld shower head on a slide bar.
• Grab bars mounted into solid backing.
• A wall-mounted or open vanity with knee space.
• A toilet at a comfortable transfer height with space beside it.
• Lever faucets and a mirror that tilts or extends low.

Some bungalows have a small second bathroom or closet next to the main bath. Combining them can create the turning space you need.

An accessible kitchen and bedroom

Area	Barrier	Adaptation
Counters	Too high to work from a chair	A lowered section with open knee space
Sink	Cabinet blocks knee space	Open base with insulated pipes
Cooking	Reaching over hot burners	Front controls, side-opening wall oven
Storage	High uppers, deep base cabinets	Drawers, pull-down shelves
Bedroom	No space beside the bed	Clear transfer space, lowered closet rods
Laundry	Basement location	Main-floor laundry with front controls

Light switches, outlets and thermostats should be at reachable heights. Smart switches and voice controls also help.

Who to involve and how to plan the budget

Every person’s needs are different. A good plan is built around the person, not a generic checklist.

1. Occupational therapist: assesses needs and recommends specific features.
2. Contractor with accessibility experience: prices the work and handles permits.
3. Accountant: can tell you about federal and Ontario tax credits that may apply to accessibility renovations.
4. Your municipality and local agencies: may know of grant or loan programs.

Costs depend on the home and the scope. Get several written quotes and ask what’s included.

Buying a bungalow you can adapt

Few resale homes are fully accessible. Look for good bones that make adapting easier.

• Few or no steps at one entrance.
• A simple, rectangular layout with wide hallways.
• Room to enlarge the main bathroom.
• A flat lot and driveway.

Bring a tape measure to showings and take photos of every doorway. Save your search with bungalow listing alerts so you can act quickly when the right home appears.

Frequently asked questions

How wide should doorways be for a wheelchair?

Many accessibility guides recommend 36-inch doorways. Your occupational therapist can confirm what works for the specific chair and user.

Can a raised bungalow be made wheelchair accessible?

It’s harder because of the stairs at the entry. A lift or a long ramp may be needed. A detached one-storey bungalow with a low entry is usually simpler.

Do accessibility renovations need permits?

Structural changes, plumbing work and some ramps usually need permits. Check with your city’s building department before work starts.

Are there tax credits for accessibility renovations in Ontario?

There are federal and provincial credits that may apply. Rules change, so ask an accountant before you start.

The bottom line

A bungalow gives you the best head start on accessibility. Focus on the entrance, doorways and bathroom first, and build the plan around the person who will use the home.

For a wider view of design that works for everyone, read our guide to universal design in bungalows.