03/08/2026
Understanding Light Reflectance Value (LRV) in Disabled Washroom Design.
When designing an accessible washroom, it's easy to focus on wheelchair users, grab rails and turning circles. But accessibility goes far beyond mobility.
In fact, only 8% of disabled people use a wheelchair, meaning accessible washrooms must be designed to support a much wider range of needs, including those with visual impairments.
That's where Light Reflectance Value (LRV) plays a vital role.
Featured in Approved Document M (Doc M) guidance, LRV helps ensure important elements within a washroom are visually distinguishable from their surroundings. Good colour contrast can make it easier for users to navigate the space confidently, identify key fixtures, and maintain independence.
With more than 2 million people in the UK living with sight loss, thoughtful design choices can have a significant impact. Accessible washrooms often provide additional space for mobility aids or guide dogs, while contrasting grab rails and fixtures can offer reassurance and support when moving around the room.
In this blog, we cover everything about LRV, from key factors to our LRV finish values.
Discover how small design details can make a big difference to accessibility - https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0xnNXg0