Good design. All perceptions of a built space hinge first and foremost on this. There are a lot of factors that qualify what “good” design actually looks like, but it generally results from inclusive early planning and a comprehensive approach.  Due consideration is given to every space of the project and all stakeholder inputs from the beginning. This sort of approach is core to USGBC’s LEED rating system, encouraging building performance excellence, reduced environmental impact and a focus on building occupant experience.

Architects frequently focus a great deal of attention on the statement-making aspects of a design. It’s why a disproportionate amount of effort and resources are generally poured into the building façade, lobbies and entryways. But our experience within a space transcends first impressions very quickly.

Restrooms aren’t central to the purpose of a built space; they’re peripheral. But a bad restroom experience will inform a building user’s perception of a place faster than anything else.

According to one survey:

• 73 percent of consumers believe a bad restroom indicates poor management.

• 69 percent say it lowers their opinion of the company.

• 65 percent say it shows the business doesn't care about customers.

• 61 percent say it gives the impression the company is lazy or sloppy.

• 64 percent say they’ll either think twice about patronizing the business or will never frequent it again.

(IFMA 2016)

People spend A LOT of time in restrooms. We go there to check our appearance, to wash our hands, to take a break from whatever we’re doing — whether at work or a social occasion. We go there to have some privacy and some reprieve from being always on.

Why do restrooms often get treated as an afterthought in design, then? Why are they so often at the bottom of a project’s budget priority? Here’s why they don’t have to be: designers can use practical materials and methods to achieve a successful bathroom design even on a low budget; they key is designing it according to meet the unique needs of that built space…