ECJ EUROPEAN Cleaning Journal

Attitudes towards public toilets have changed according to associate at Hugh Broughton Architects Emma Watson.

Interest in these facilities has eroded to the point where people no longer want to think about them, spend money on them or maintain them, she says.

Watson was speaking at a recent architects' round table on washroom design chaired by Jan-Carlos Kucharek of the Royal Institute of British Architects. Senior research associate at the Royal College of Art's Public Toilets Research Unit Gail Ramster said decades of "designing against crime" had contributed to the decline of public washroom provision.

"Trying to design out antisocial behaviour, vandalism or sexual activity could hamper legitimate uses," she said. "For instance, UV lights to counter illicit drug use could create a less functional space for everyone else."

She added that enhancing accessibility should not require toilets to become beige or boring. "A better understanding of diversity can lead to better design," she said.

"There has been a habit over the last few decades to create very white spaces, associating white with cleanliness when it just makes it harder to identify the cubicle compared to the wall. Maybe if the space were more colourful it would improve our perception of how cared for that space is and how well we treat it."

Edward Murray of Studio Moren said he found hidden infrared sensors annoying while other panellists said they became frustrated when technology interrupted ease of use. Suggested design approaches included installing curved tiles to aid cleaning; mixer taps with elbow-operable handles, and clearer signage for single or double flush. Other suggestions were cubicle doors that automatically settled ajar when unoccupied so that users could tell which were free.

"We may become too complex in pursuit of all-singing, all-dancing," said Cathal Quinn of Stanton Williams. "Something basic with one function and an ease of cleanliness is very important."