Set within a larger eco-conscious event space, the community restroom is designed to be
more than just a utility – it is an extension of its surroundings. The event space itself is built
on the principles of sustainability and minimal intervention, allowing nature to take
precedence. Every structure within it is carefully designed to belong to the land, using
materials and techniques that embrace, rather than disrupt, the environment.
The siting of the restroom block, nestled amidst a grove of mango trees, was intentionally
chosen to blend seamlessly with nature. Instead of clearing the landscape, the design
works around it, allowing the trees to dictate the form. One tree, in particular, stands at the
center of the space, framed by an open window that draws the outdoors in, ensuring that
even within an enclosed space, nature remains present.
The exterior materials were selected to merge with the natural setting. Rammed earth
walls, built using the very soil from the site, give the structure an organic quality, allowing it
to rise from the ground as though it has always belonged there. The roof is a combination
of mild steel and tin sheets, providing both structure and thermal comfort. To soften this
and create a more tactile experience, locally sourced handwoven bamboo mats stretch
across the entire ceiling, casting shifting patterns of light and shadow throughout the day.
The layout of the restroom is simple yet intentional. A large communal sink serves as the
central element, dividing the space into male and female sections. Carved entirely from
rust-hued granite, the sink is more than a functional fixture – it is a sculptural piece.
Artisans shaped and balanced it to create a seamless, monolithic form, making it feel less
like an installation and more like a natural extension of the space itself. This same granite
extends to the flooring, grounding the entire structure with its rich, earthy tone.
Inside, the material palette continues to embrace warmth and restraint. The deep-toned
doors blend seamlessly with the muted, textured walls, ensuring a sense of cohesion
throughout. Slit windows punctuate the structure, allowing soft daylight and fresh air to
filter in while maintaining privacy. There is a quiet simplicity to the space – one that does
not demand attention but instead invites a sense of ease.
Designed to disappear into its surroundings, this restroom is a testament to how
architecture can coexist with nature. It does not impose itself but rather allows the
landscape to lead, creating a space that feels both rooted and effortless.
