RESTROOM ARCHITECTURE : A VALUABLE COMPONENT OF URBAN LIVING

Abstract

In an urban lifestyle, the need to use a restroom in public places has always been an unavoidable routine. However, taboos associated with restrooms are incessant, often causing some sort of an embarrassment when a person needs to be excused to use one. This necessary space has always been regarded as utilitarian aspect in the design of a building. There is a need to understand that restrooms are no longer utilitarian spaces. Restrooms, albeit being small spaces, have become the places where urbanites seek respite in. The length of stay each time may be short but this temporary break away from the stressful city is important for users to refresh themselves, hence the name “restrooms”. Prolonged stress takes a toll on humans thus reducing the quality of life. In recent years, well designed restrooms have been more widely acknowledged. Aesthetically interesting restrooms have also become a trend. It is important, however, to ensure that stylish designs do not lose their functionalities. A well designed restroom should be able to accommodate all groups of users, unless stated otherwise. This dissertation looks into design issues, specifically functions and technicalities of restrooms of public and commercial buildings in Singapore. In looking for ideas and solutions, foreign examples have also been cited where applicable, as they provoke rethinking into restroom designs. It is hoped that this dissertation would identify relevant issues for better restroom design in future.