Transformation to Gender Neutral Washrooms

Figurr Architects Collective was asked to renovate an existing public washroom in the J.-A.-De Sève Pavilion on the main campus. The University tasked Figurr with creating a universally accessible and gender-neutral washroom that would serve as a showcase for the University and a model for future renovations and initiatives. 

Inspired by Stalled, an open-source social equity research initiative, and the need for equitable access to public washrooms, Figurr collaborated with the University to develop a design that aligns with its equity, diversity and inclusion mandate.  

Four categories of design were addressed during the consultation and design process: sound transmission and privacy, odour control, security, and comfort. Addressing these concerns early in the design process was critical to the project's success.  

Sound Transmission and Privacy 

A primary consideration for sound transmission is that sound can easily travel between washroom stalls and from the stalls to the public corridor. Figurr addressed this issue by opting for closed individual stalls with full-height walls instead of the typical toilet partitions. This design provides much better acoustic control. 

Odour Control  

Odour control is important for the washroom users and the surrounding public spaces. A highly effective way to tackle this issue is by adding a mechanical exhaust system to each closed stall. Figurr incorporated this exhaust system into the renovation to limit the spread of odour. 

Security  

One of the main design principles involves using the circulation space as part of the public corridor, thereby reducing the designated washroom area. As there are no doors leading into the washroom area, users have a clear line of sight throughout the space, which increases feelings of security by providing an open, easy exit environment. Figurr also installed enhanced lighting and motion sensors to promote safety. 

Comfort 

A rest area outside the washroom is designed to serve as a socialization zone, bringing more people near the washroom and reducing feelings of isolation, which enhances individual security. The University of Montreal's washrooms are adjacent to public spaces and student services. 

Figurr’s design includes “living green walls” and foliage in the rest area, which supports student well-being (biophilic design) and improves sound control. This space serves as a waiting area, meeting point, and general circulation zone. 

The result of this collaboration with the University of Montreal is a bright and welcoming public space that supports the University’s goals of creating a more equitable and accessible campus experience. 

Read more about Figurr’s “Washrooms for All” case study here.  

Read about Stalled here.