Public toilet designed by Architect Kengo Kuma completes in Tokyo

(Construction) – A public restroom designed by architect Kengo Kuma was completed in Shibuya Ward, Tokyo, on June 24. The project is part of “THE TOKYO TOILET,” a project funded by the Nippon Foundation to build public toilets that can be used comfortably by anyone.

Public toilet designed by Architect Kengo Kuma.

The exterior walls of the building are made of Yoshino cedar, and five huts covered with wood are lined up to replicate a village. The toilets are located in Nabeshima Shoto Park in Shibuya Ward. It was designed with various uses in mind, such as changing clothes. Mr. Kuma explains, “The new public restroom symbolizes the age of diversity”.

The aim of the project is to dispel the image of public toilets as dark and smelly. It aims to create the environment that is easy to use for everyone, regardless of gender, age, or disability. Sixteen world-renowned creators, including Mr. Kuma, are participating in the project. They have renovated 17 public restrooms in Shibuya Ward. This is the ninth location. The remaining eight sites are scheduled to be completed by March 2022. (2021/06/25)