ADAAG Manual

Recessed Lavatories

Recessing lavatories can provide space for side transfers while allowing a narrower room width. The rear grab bar determines the minimum distance of the lavatory from the water closet. (If the clear floor space at the lavatory is obstructed on both sides more than 2 feet then it must be at least 36 inches wide instead of 30 inches.)

In-swinging doors must clear fixture clearances and door clearances must clear the water closet fixture (verify toilet length).

Where doors swing out, the turning space typically determines the minimum room depth.

Lavatories can also be recessed on a side wall. Where plumbing is split, clear floor space at the water closet must allow side transfer (i.e., be at least 60 inches wide). As with the previous layouts, in-swinging doors clearing fixture clearances usually determine the minimum room depth. (Doors can also be located on the wall opposite the water closet). Door clearances and turning space usually determine the minimum room depth where doors swing out (not shown).