Photo Credit: Courtesy of TMP Architecture, Inc.
While beautiful, updated fitness equipment, a newly finished gym floor, a bright welcome desk, or a spacious running track are certainly exciting changes for a new or renovated recreation center, what consideration has been given to the less-glamorous amenities of restrooms and changing stations? These spaces see the most traffic in the facility, and their condition can leave a lasting impression with guests. The following list outlines ideas for when your facility’s restrooms are in need of some TLC or even a complete overhaul:
1. Location, Location, Location
The restrooms’ locations should be intuitive, and placed where guests might expect them. Signage should be obvious and visible from the open spaces of the fitness areas, for example. Placing restrooms well within the code-mandated distance of 400 feet of an activity area will provide a shorter path for all, particularly helpful for senior users and those with wheelchairs. Because restrooms’ loud flushes and hand-dryers can be disruptive to visitors and staff, an acoustic separation should be considered to minimize noise pollution.
2. Materials: Rough And Tough
Because restroom stalls and other nooks are often hidden from view, they can, unfortunately, be the target of mischief. Ceramic tiles with special epoxies are a solid choice, as they can withstand markers and other graffiti, as well as a facility’s daily cleaning regimen. In general, designers should specify durable materials that can be easily wiped clean. Graffiti-resistant walls and fixtures can still be aesthetically pleasing, though, with the use of non-traditional color and pattern choices. Since a restroom is separated from the center’s main areas, it doesn’t need to blend in a strict design sense. Here, there is more freedom for designers to present a cheerful atmosphere with unique finishes and bright colors, where the rest of the center may be presented in more subdued hues.