Urination. Defacation. Lipstick application. Crying. Nose blowing. Vomiting. Sex. Drugs. Social Media.

This is a list of events that typically occur in restrooms. How has this list evolved since services became a public standard? How has the physical space that houses restroom activities changed over time? The below information shows preliminary data collection on variables that influence the physical spaces of public restrooms.

by Nicole Jones

Surely, we all understand that restrooms are designed to allow for those first two events, but physical spaces hold events much more varied and involved than what they ever started out to do. As designers move toward creating better spaces, what all should the design be accounting for? Electrical outlets near the toilet for those who sit and scroll? A.I.-enhanced mirrors to display a more-preferred reflection? Will the U.S. ever catch up with Japanese cleanliness?

Richard Weiss, President of Weiss Architecture, has created stand-out structures across Austin, Texas since 2003. Weiss recently completed the Alamo Drafthouse Mueller, which opened March 9th, 2018. The Austin original features it's lauded table service during film showings, reclining seats, six-screens, and uniquely, gender-neutral restrooms. The below is an edited interview captured on April 11th around the subject of gender-neutral restrooms.

Was the Alamo your first gender-neutral restrooms project?

No.

How did the idea for creating a gender-netural restroom come about?

Well.

What did you look to for inspiration for creating this space?

So.

Was there anything that surprised you, both in the design process and after it was constructed?

Goals.

What's the value in both gender-neutral spaces and gendered spaces? Why?

Maybe.

How do you think these spaces will continue to change in the future?

Yes.