Dynamic Reflections in Fluid Environments: Transforming Toilets through Cultural and Sensory experience

Central Glass International Architectural Design Competition 2024. 

Theme: Toilet

Judges: Jun Aoki (chief judge), Tadao Kamei, Goichi Kamochi, Yoshiharu Tsukamoto, Junya Ishigami, Suzuko Yamada

First place

Concept/Project Description:

Prefece

Through various iterations of a public toilet pavilion—one that integrates historical typologies into a new, unprecedented architectural form—this project generates theoretical models intended as foundations for physical, real-world implementation. These models range from entirely transparent to fully massive, exploring a complete spectrum of responses to potential contextual situations. The underlying premise is that such a context could be a characteristic urban space in a Mediterranean city.

By introducing one of the proposed solutions, both the future character and the very essence of the imagined urban setting would transform. Conceptually, the pavilion merges three elements: (a) public space, (b) green oasis/garden, and (c) toilet facilities. Through a variety of spatial configurations, material choices, and the inclusion of Mediterranean plant life, multiple scenarios emerge for experiencing these spatial qualities—ranging from public to private and from spaces bathed in light to those enveloped in darkness. The diverse use of materials further refines levels of privacy while maintaining the primary function of the pavilion as a public restroom.

This project draws its relevance from multiple factors, notably the rise in summer temperatures driven by current climate change, the increasing demand for shared urban spaces that serve as places of rest and socialization, and the essential need for public toilets as both a hygienic and aesthetic component of a city’s infrastructure.

Project

The architectural models, presented in the style of J.L. Durand and his publication *Précis des leçons d'architecture données à l'École royale polytechnique*, are divided typologically and taxonomically. Four columns, four rows. Each column corresponds to a type, while each row represents an elaboration or variant of that type. However, this mathematical approach is not literal, but primarily intuitive in nature. Drawing upon historical architectural references, motifs derived from urban spaces in my own city of Zadar, Croatia, and my personal artistic aspirations, I have developed abstract spatial models "inhabited" by functions such as a public toilet, a Mediterranean garden as a place for rest, and new transitional, almost liminal spaces that gradually transition from public to private.

- The first row draws inspiration from J. Paxton's Crystal Palace, incorporating elements of axial symmetry, the use of glass and its transparency as a defining motif, and the integration of Mediterranean plants within the greenhouse pavilion, where each pavilion leads to a specific path towards the toilet.

- The second row evokes the ambiance of ancient baths through their massive, stereotomic character—systems of monumental enfilades with a concrete orthogonal construction overhead, serving as both a sign and symbol, under which lies the garden and forest space. In this typology, the toilets and greenery exist outdoors.

- The third row focuses on the roof, symbolic of the context. Given the Mediterranean's expansive geographical spread, incorporating diverse cultures and building technologies, various roof structures are explored here: hipped, gable, barrel roofs, and various combinations thereof. This type emphasizes the importance of protection from the elements—rain, sun, snow—and the contextual nature of place.

- The fourth row imagines the use of prefabricated elements, such as prefabricated structures whose reorganization shapes the new pavilion space. Reclaimed quarry stone, discarded concrete beams, Virendell girders, and steel I-sections form these elements. Through a mix of open and closed spaces, they suggest varying levels of privacy for public spaces. This particular approach hints at the context of a former industrial city.

In summary, these conceptual models reimagine the public toilet as a multifaceted pavilion that merges historical typologies with contemporary design mixed Mediterranean cultural qualities. By providing transitions from public to private space, integrating greenery, and highlighting different architectural forms, each model offers a thoughtful response to current climatic challenges and social demands, ultimately envisioning a transformative urban intervention that enhances both functionality and its own personal identity.