The Portland Loo Offers a Community-Built, Safe Outdoor Bathroom
M — September 13, 2016 — Art & Design
References: theloo.biz & fastcoexist
The Portland Loo might have a very utilitarian build to the outdoor bathroom, but this public toilet is highly innovative thanks to its design that was built collectively by the community. The space is specially designed so that people can't hide out inside, it can be easily cleaned and is safe to use. The structure revolutionizes public washrooms so that they can be inviting and well-maintained spaces for citizens to use.
Unlike many outdoor bathrooms, the Portland Loo was actually designed as a collective effort between locals, police forces and maintenance crews. The design reflects important aspects to each group with a small boxed space that can be monitored while respecting the privacy of the user. The roof is made of grates that police can look into if they suspect suspicious activity is occurring inside. However, the grates provide a blind spot that prevents onlookers from seeing them use the facility.
Unlike many outdoor bathrooms, the Portland Loo was actually designed as a collective effort between locals, police forces and maintenance crews. The design reflects important aspects to each group with a small boxed space that can be monitored while respecting the privacy of the user. The roof is made of grates that police can look into if they suspect suspicious activity is occurring inside. However, the grates provide a blind spot that prevents onlookers from seeing them use the facility.
Trend Themes
1. Community-designed Public Spaces - Designing public spaces with input from locals can create safer and more welcoming environments, such as the Portland Loo public toilet.
2. Innovative Public Restrooms - Developing unique restroom structures, like the Portland Loo, that prioritize safety and cleanliness can improve public amenities and encourage more usage.
3. Privacy-respecting Structures - Integrating features that allow for privacy without compromising safety can create more accessible and inclusive public spaces, as seen with the Portland Loo's grates on the roof.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture and Urban Planning - Incorporating community input and innovative designs into public spaces, such as restrooms, can lead to more livable and safe cities.
2. Municipal and Government Services - Developing and implementing public facilities that prioritize safety and cleanliness can improve citizen satisfaction and trust in local government.
3. Facility Management and Maintenance - Creating innovative and easy-to-maintain structures, like the Portland Loo, can reduce costs and labor for facility management while also improving public resources.
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