In today’s world, inclusive design is an expectation amongst a range of businesses and environments. One of the clearest examples of this shift is the move towards gender neutral washrooms in commercial spaces, including schools, offices, restaurants and more. For businesses and corporations, designing a gender neutral washroom can improve accessibility, privacy, and customer satisfaction, ensuring that the space is in line with today's values and demands.
If you are planning a commercial washroom refurbishment, this guide will walk you through why neutral washrooms work, key design elements to consider, and how your business may benefit.
Why gender neutral washrooms make sense
Gender neutral washrooms offer a practical solution to several common issues businesses face. They create a more inclusive environment for people who may not identify strictly as male or female, while also offering greater flexibility in how space is used. By designing a neutral space, businesses can also improve practical aspects, such as improving traffic flow and making more efficient use of the available square footage.
From a commercial standpoint, offering a gender neutral washroom also signals that your organisation values diversity and inclusion. This can enhance your brand reputation, particularly among younger generations who place a strong emphasis on social responsibility when choosing where to spend their time and money.
Key design elements for gender neutral commercial washrooms
When it comes to designing a gender neutral washroom, privacy and comfort must sit at the heart of the refurbishment. Unlike traditional communal spaces that separate users by gender, neutral washrooms need to accommodate all users equally and respectfully.
The following design elements should be prioritised:
Full-height partitions and doors
Privacy is key in gender neutral designs. Instead of standard cubicle doors and partitions with gaps above and below, businesses could opt for floor-to-ceiling walls and solid doors to offer full privacy for all users.
Clear signage
Instead of using male and female signage, gender neutral washrooms use simple statements like ‘toilets’, ‘washroom’, or ‘gender neutral toilets’. Clear, friendly signage helps set user expectations and removes confusion, and many businesses will opt for signage of both.
Shared handwashing areas
Many gender neutral washrooms feature a shared handwashing zone, separate from private cubicles. This layout promotes space efficiency and improves the flow of people in and out of the area. It also helps reduce waiting times during peak periods.
Accessibility considerations
Gender neutral washrooms should always include accessible cubicles that meet the requirements of the Equality Act 2010. This means factoring in wheelchair accessibility, baby changing facilities, and support rails where necessary.
Safety and visibility
It is important that the design does not create isolated or hidden areas. Good lighting, clear sightlines to and from the entrance, and visible shared spaces contribute to a feeling of safety and comfort for all users. Different safety regulations will also be relevant to different industry types, so it's always important to check these in line with any refurbishments or fit-outs.
High-quality fittings and finishes
Because these spaces are designed for all users, investing in durable, easy-to-clean materials is essential, as you can expect a higher amount of foot traffic. Solid surface countertops, sensor-activated taps, and anti-vandal cubicle systems will ensure your washroom stands the test of time.
Where gender neutral washrooms work best
While gender neutral washrooms can benefit almost any commercial space, certain environments stand to gain even more from their installation.
Office washrooms
Modern workplaces often attract a diverse workforce. Offering gender neutral facilities supports inclusivity and creates a more welcoming culture, helping businesses attract and retain top talent and clients.
Education
Schools, colleges, and universities are increasingly moving towards neutral washrooms. This approach supports students who may be transgender or non-binary, helping to create a safe and respectful environment.
Leisure and hospitality venues
Cinemas, gyms, shopping centres, and entertainment venues can experience heavy footfall and peak-time queues. Gender neutral washrooms help speed up access and improve the overall customer experience.
Healthcare
Hospitals and healthcare centres are adopting neutral designs to provide respectful and inclusive spaces for patients and visitors alike, especially with spaces being so busy and high traffic.
Commercial washroom refurbishment
Inspired washrooms design, refurbish and fit out commercial washrooms across the UK, turning old spaces into fresh, inspiring places that are ready for everyday use. We cover the whole of the UK, offering services in sectors such as hospitals, hotels, offices, schools and commercial properties.
To enquire about any of our services or get started on a washroom project, get in touch on 0115 811 4242 and we'll take you through the next steps!