New Public Toilet Block, Heywood

This project addresses an issue common to all public amenities: how to prevent vandalism.  Rather than taking a defensive approach, we have responded positively by producing an animated, joyful addition to the streetscape in this small country town.

 

The issue of public safety and deterring anti-social behaviour is tackled with the use of a thin, translucent wall material on three sides of the building. This acts like a veil, providing privacy whilst reminding users that they are not entirely concealed from their surroundings. The translucent cladding is easily and cheaply replaced, while the colourful stripes of the tiles fragment the façade in a bid to ‘get in first’ ahead of potential vandals.

 

By providing an attractive, good quality public facility the design generates a sense of ownership within the local community and a desire to maintain it well. More than a decade since the facility was completed, it remains in excellent condition.