WASHROOM FUNCTIONALITY

When specifying washroom products, it is important to recognize that there have been many recent innovations and changes in available products. That means that old specifications don’t belong in modern buildings. A standard office specification for washroom accessories that was written 10, 15, or even 20 years ago is very likely not optimal today. There are many improvements in products, materials, and design that can be reviewed and assessed. Since they are product-specific, it is necessary to work closely with manufacturers’ representatives because they can be a resource for the most accurate, up-to-date information. In particular, it can be helpful to work with manufacturers who offer the widest array of materials, products, and construction styles so there are more choices to incorporate into an overall design and meet the functionality needs of a project.

We have noted that the value of a building can be related to the appearance of the washrooms, but it should also be understood that the least expensive first cost for washroom products may be the most expensive choice during building operations. Because of their high use, toilet partitions and washroom accessories need constant cleaning and need to be durable. If they can’t be easily cleaned and hold up against strong cleaning agents, then their appearance soon deteriorates, defeating the whole intent of creating a desirable and appealing washroom experience. Similarly, if they aren’t durable enough to withstand heavy use or resistant to rust, corrosion, or mold, their appearance and the perceived quality of the space degrade simultaneously. The only option that the facility management or maintenance staff have at that point is to replace the underperforming components with new ones – which often alters or negates the design altogether and changes the overall appearance notably.

Taking this a step further, it is not uncommon for product substitutions or value engineering to come up during the construction phase of a project. This is where the designer needs to explain the ramifications of any change in a developed design. It is quite common that a change in the products in one specification section or part of a washroom can significantly impact other sections of the project specification. Therefore, treat washroom substitutions or proposed changes as carefully as any other part of the project.

Of course, there is also the likelihood that more than one product type is needed in a building─not all washrooms or similar spaces may have the same design or performance criteria. Cyrus Boatwalla is the Director of Marketing at ASI Group, a national manufacturer of washroom accessories, partitions, and other related building products. He points this out in detail noting “Pay attention to the need for different products of the same category even within the same building. For example, we would not recommend plastic laminate partitions in the locker room of an Aquatic Center. However, we might recommend them in other parts of the building that are not subject to humidity. If the partition manufacturer you chose uses only one type of partition material, they may not recommend, nor be able to provide, the different material types where appropriate.” All of that speaks to the need to work with a company that is able to offer unbiased information on a variety of different material and product types.

Photo courtesy of ASI Group

The value of good design with proper functionality in a washroom is found in its day-to-day use and should not be underestimated.

Handwashing Functionality

Looking at other aspects of a restroom design, attention to the permanent accessories related to handwashing and drying can help with the coordinated, overall experience as well influence the smooth, long-term operation and maintenance of restrooms. For example, soap dispensing systems often require a lot of time for maintenance staff to refill them on a regular, even daily basis. Products are now available in a top-fill soap dispensing system that can refill up to six soap dispensers in one pour. That saves time, but it can also mean that all dispensers are full, and hands are actually washed thus preventing the spread of germs and disease in interior environments.

Similarly, hand drying is critical for good hygiene and hence an important detail in restroom design. The common options are paper towels or hand dryers, and while each has their pros and cons, there is room for both, even in the same washroom. One manufacturer even makes a 3-in-1 unit that has a paper towel dispenser, waste receptacle and a built-in high speed hand dryer. While paper towels can generate waste and may be more expensive in the long run (since they are a consumable), there are instances where they are needed for uses besides hand drying, like cleaning up a mess in a washroom, or even using them to avoid touching surfaces that people don’t want direct contact with.

Overall, working with a manufacturer who can provide the appropriate products for hand washing and drying, along with other washroom needs, will help with better, more coordinated overall looks and functionality during the life of the building.

CONCLUSION

The trend in building interiors is for better design with greater functionality. Balancing design decisions and product selection between these two aspects of commercial projects requires knowledge and information on the characteristics, options, traits, and benefits of the available choices. Using the principles presented in this course can help achieve successful results in all building types.

Peter J. Arsenault, FAIA, NCARB, LEED AP, is a nationally known architect, and a prolific author advancing better interiors by design. www.pjaarch.com, www.linkedin.com/in/pjaarch