Project: Public Unisex Restroom
Type: Commercial Interior Design
Year: 2023
Objective: To create a public restroom that all individuals can use with dignity, confidence and convenience, regardless of gender, identity and ability
The Oasis Public Restroom is a public restroom concept based on inclusivity, sustainability and biophilic design elements. Informed by research, the restroom is a safe, welcoming, and thoughtfully designed space that caters to the diverse needs of all individuals. By incorporating insights gained from research, The Inclusive Oasis Restroom blends functionality and aesthetics to provide an inclusive and memorable restroom experience for all users. The Inclusive Oasis Restroom was a collaborative project, and my responsibilities were the spatial planning, zoning, circulation and layout design.
Common area
The basin is situated in the centre of the space and facilitates a smooth movement pattern. To promote inclusivity and accessibility, and to accomodate wheelchair users and children, the basin has three different height levels. To ensure an efficient flow of movement, mirrors are not placed at the washing area.
Entrance
The entrance leads you into the common area of the restroom, and includes biophilic elements such as a plant wall, a wall with running water and natural pebbles along the walls. The waiting lounge area is placed between the entrance and exit to prevent overcrowding in the restroom. This allows individuals who are waiting for others, such as parents waiting for their children to have a designated space to wait.
Accessible restrooms and stalls
The accessible restrooms have automatic doors, 1000 mm wide door openings and a 1500 mm turning space. All restrooms have signage with symbols, text and braille to accomodate everyone. The stalls are larger than traditional stalls, and offers plenty of space. The stalls has floor-to ceiling doors, to prioritise privacy and create a comfortable environment. The gap between the stalls makes it easy to maintain and keep clean, ensuring a hygenic space.
Accessible restroom and vanity station
The accessible restrooms features lowered sinks for wheelchair users, a tilted mirror for universal visibility, and a folding changing table for parents and children. The vanity station features a benchtop and mirrors at two different heights, ensuring accessible use for everyone. Biophilic elements such as the arched mirrors and plants on the wall have been thoughtfully incorporated to this area. The ceiling is covered with acoustic panels, to improve the acoustics of the space, considering all the other hard surfaces.
Floor plan
The floor plan is designed to avoid any congestion zones, by ensuring a good circulation through the space. The entrance at the left offers easy access to the accessible restrooms and/or the toilet stalls. The basin is located in the middle of the space, and the vanity station is thoughtfully placed near the exit of the restrooms to prevent any crowding. This strategic interior design creates an enjoyable and practical environment that prioritises comfort and functionality.
