Trident: A Revolution in Public Toilet Design

Yan Gu's Award-Winning Design Transforms Public Toilets into Sustainable, User-Friendly Spaces

Trident was inspired by the "Toilet Revolution" social movement, which aimed to improve the state of public toilets. Yan Gu took this concept further by treating the design of public utility buildings as products. The result is a public toilet that is clean, easy to locate, equipped with modern facilities, and efficiently managed.

What sets Trident apart from conventional public toilets is its unique properties. The design follows a "product standardization process" that includes unified visuals, modularity, humanization, and technology. A notable feature is the photovoltaic power generation system installed on the roof. This not only powers the toilet but also provides electricity for the surrounding residents, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability.

The realization of Trident involved the use of blue fluorocarbon paint perforated panel curtain wall for the facade walls, and brushed stainless steel metal logo with blue Acrylic for a fixed social cognition. The interior features a grey waterproof paint finish and an all-corner artificial marble integrated hand-washing table, which is both aesthetically pleasing and practical for cleaning.

Trident's interaction design is also noteworthy. The blue system signage, exclusive logo, and indoor map guidance enhance user experience. The toilet board includes a human body induction lamp that remains off when not in use and turns on for three minutes to remind users. Sensor faucets and flush valves ensure hygiene and prevent cross-infection, while an air purification machine and special fragrance system improve air quality.

The project was initiated in Shanghai Pudong in April 2019 and completed in October the same year. The research behind Trident involved extensive social research and experiments, including air purification and building facade module experiments. The results have been impressive, with 30 public toilets in Shanghai Pudong now in normal use. The success of Trident suggests that productive architectural design could be a new way to solve social public facilities architecture.

Despite the challenges encountered during the design process, such as improving the overall use environment and training administrators, Trident has proven to be a successful and innovative solution to urban public toilet renewal. Its recognition with a Silver A' Street and City Furniture Design Award is a testament to its remarkable design and functionality.