new york-based designer nao tamura has completed a public convenience as part of the ‘tokyo toilet’ project, an initiative that will see a total of 17 new restrooms built throughout shibuya. located on a small triangular plot, the all-red structure is inspired by origata — a traditional japanese method of decorative wrapping. ‘a symbol of gift-giving, this motif embodies the spirit of hospitality towards shibuya ward’s multinational visitors, and carries my vision to create a safe space that envelopes all users,’ says nao tamura.

nao tamura designs accessible, all-red restroom as part of 'tokyo toilet' initiative
all photos by satoshi nagare/hiroko hojo

 

 

nao tamura, who resides in new york, sought to design a space that catered to the needs of everyone — regardless of age, sexual identity, ethnicity, or religion. ‘living in new york, I have been privileged to witness the LGBTQ+ community living in alignment with their sexual identities,’ tamura continues. ‘as I designed this public bathroom for a small triangular lot in shibuya, I envisioned a society that embraces the LGBTQ+ community and holds space for them to live their truth.’

nao tamura designs accessible, all-red restroom as part of 'tokyo toilet' initiative

 

 

behind the sawtooth façade, the designer created three separate spaces that are both safe and private. ‘this design represents my hope for a society where people from all walks of life feel safe and are able to thrive,’ says nao tamura. the tokyo toilet project comprises the design and build of 17 restrooms across shibuya city — a special ward of tokyo, japan. read more information about the location of nao tamura’s design here, and see designboom’s coverage of masamichi katayama’s contribution to the initiative here.

nao tamura designs accessible, all-red restroom as part of 'tokyo toilet' initiative

 

 

this project by the nippon foundation aims for the realization of a society where all kinds of diversity are accepted, by building public toilets. with the full cooperation of shibuya city, 17 toilets that are accessible for anyone regardless of gender, age, or disability will be created. through the power of design and the creativity of 16 creators who support the objectives of this project, the nippon foundation is demonstrating what this new society can achieve. the toilets will be constructed by daiwa house industry co., ltd., while toto ltd. will advise on toilet equipment and layout.

nao tamura designs accessible, all-red restroom as part of 'tokyo toilet' initiative

nao tamura designs accessible, all-red restroom as part of 'tokyo toilet' initiative

nao tamura designs accessible, all-red restroom as part of 'tokyo toilet' initiative

nao tamura designs accessible, all-red restroom as part of 'tokyo toilet' initiative

nao tamura designs accessible, all-red restroom as part of 'tokyo toilet' initiative
construction process

nao tamura designs accessible, all-red restroom as part of 'tokyo toilet' initiative
site location

nao tamura designs accessible, all-red restroom as part of 'tokyo toilet' initiative
configuration diagram

nao tamura designs accessible, all-red restroom as part of 'tokyo toilet' initiative
configuration diagram

 

 

project info:

 

name: triangle — tokyo toilet
location: tokyo, japan
design: nao tamura
client: nippon foundation
status: complete/open