Do Accessible Products Belong at an Interior Design Show?
We came to the Interior Design Show (IDS) Vancouver with a bold idea: that accessible products could seamlessly fit into the world of high design. What did we learn? They don’t just belong—they’re pushing it into totally new territory. From stylish grab bars to shower seats people actually want to use, here’s what we discovered about the intersection of accessibility and design from IDS Vancouver.
1 - Accessible Products Are Only Stigmatizing When You Focus on Falls
When you stop focusing on safety and start talking about making your home just work better, accessible products take on a whole new meaning. Our Lotic Shower Seat and Corbel Adjustable Side Table weren’t seen as accessibility tools by most attendees—instead, they were appreciated for their convenience and design. Some loved the idea of sitting while showering simply for the relaxation it offers, while others imagined using the Corbel Table as the perfect way to work comfortably from their couch.
It was clear that people found their own reasons to enjoy our products, and in doing so, stigma wasn’t even part of the conversation. Accessibility, when framed through the lens of comfort and style, becomes just another aspect of thoughtful home design.
2. Our Community is Bigger Than We Thought
One of the most inspiring moments at IDS was discovering just how many people are already thinking about accessibility and aging in place. Throughout the weekend, we spoke with hundreds of visitors who shared how they or their clients were preparing for the future.
Comments like, “More people should be doing this,” or “My customers are working hard to get ready for aging in place,” were common. We even heard from designers whose upcoming projects are centered on accessibility. This confirmed what we’ve always believed: the demand for stylish, accessible home products is growing, and our community is stronger than ever.
3. For Some, Our Selora Grab Bar Really Was Invisible
One of the biggest surprises from the weekend was how many people didn’t even notice our Selora Grab Bar at first. Time and again, we heard comments like, “I didn’t even see it—I thought it was just a picture frame!” That’s exactly what we hoped to achieve. Selora blends so effortlessly into its surroundings that it disappears into the room until it’s needed. This kind of seamless integration shows that accessible products don’t need to stand out to make a difference—they can quietly offer support without shouting “safety.”
4. For Others, Selora Was Something Else Entirely
We watched in awe as people interacted with our Selora Grab Bar in ways we never imagined. From chin-ups to ballet poses, visitors used it for more than just support! But one thing remained consistent: no one could take their hands off it. The way people engaged with Selora showed us that grab bars don’t have to carry a stigma. They can be as much about expression and interaction as they are about safety, especially when they’re designed to feel like part of the home.
5. There are Beautiful Options for Bathrooms and Cabinets
Over the weekend, we saw some stunning designs for cabinets and bathrooms—everything from beautiful pulls for drawers and doors to sleek grabs for showers. It was clear that manufacturers are increasingly adding accessible designs into their options. But it’s obvious to us that people want more. We received a lot of questions about whether our Selora Grab Bar Frame would work in the shower (Not yet—since it’s made of wood—but we’re exploring options). It’s clear, people want to improve the accessibility of their homes.
6. Accessible Inspiration Could be Found Throughout the Show
We were not shy about our mission to make accessible beautiful at IDS Vancouver. Although we were the only brand of our kind at the show, we did find some other modern accessibility inspiration at the event. Here are a few of our favourites:
- A mirror with a descending toiletry shelf by Mobo Home Vancouver to keep important items within easy reach
- The Navana Dining Chair by Ffabb Home has a great seat height, width, and arm rests to make getting up and down a breeze
- Fully adjustable pillows by Henrie Sleep
- The Micro-Hood by SvN Architects + Planners - a project rethinking neighborhood development with the integration of some great ideas for aging-in place
7. Accessible Products Belong at Design Shows
By the end of the weekend, we had no doubt: accessible products not only belong at design shows, but they’re also driving new conversations about inclusion in design. No one questioned whether we fit in at IDS. Instead, we were met with suggestions for where else our products could be useful, from residential spaces to hospitality projects. The discussion wasn’t about whether our products were “accessible enough”—it was about how well they integrated into modern home design. Accessibility isn’t a niche, it’s a necessity for people who want to enjoy their homes for as long as possible.
At IDS, our booth encouraged people to grab, touch, and sit on our designs, and the takeaway was clear: using an accessible product doesn’t “say something” about you. It simply enhances your space, providing comfort and support - ideally without compromise. Our experience confirmed a powerful truth for us: accessible products don’t have to stand out or send a message about who you are. Nothing happens when you use an accessible product—it’s just there to make life easier.
At Capella Design, we’re committed to making sure that accessible products blend seamlessly into every home—not as a statement, but as an essential part of thoughtful, modern design. And from our experience at IDS Vancouver, it was clear. Through great design, we also blend seamlessly into the Interior Design Community.
Whether you’re new to the Capella Design community or not, we thought folks could use an update on what we’ve been up to this year. And was it ever a lot! From joining the permanent collection of a museum to winning a design award, here’s what you need to know about how Capella Design is creating distinction in the design-forward mobility product category.
- Incorporating premade food, whether that means ordering out or store bought sides and desserts
- Opting for gift bags over wrapping paper
- Sending calls or texts instead of holiday cards
- Saying no to gatherings causing caregiving strain (or that you just aren’t excited to attend!)
Put Yourself First
Prioritize your well-being this holiday season by scheduling regular self-care activities—whether that is a long walk, your favorite treat, or some uninterrupted time alone. As the saying goes, “put your oxygen mask on first before assisting others.”Remember that taking care of yourself is not selfish; it's an essential part of being an effective caregiver, so carve out time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation.
Let Your Home Help You Out
Organizing and preparing the home for a more accessible holiday season will create an environment that is both festive and conducive to caregiving responsibilities.Check out our post with tips on how to make your home more accessible for the holidays. These small changes can help you ensure a safe and comfortable space for you and your loved ones, alleviating a significant factor in caregiving stress.
Get customer attention by clean visual and video
Make it easy to buy by eliminating stumbling blocks to purchase. Don’t assume customers know which item you’re talking about in your post. Provide a link directly to the product page or just link the product to your blog so they can buy if they want. If it relevant give readers more than one way to get to the product.
Article credit: Heidi Cohen
