schleifer & milczanowski architekci: public toilet for gdansk

‘public toilet for gdansk’ by schleifer & milczanowski architekci, gdansk, poland all images courtesy of schleifer & milczanowski architekci

polish firm schleifer & milczanowski architekci have implemented the first ‘public toilet for gdansk’ within the historic centre of gdansk, poland. part of the selection as a EURO 2012 host city, the architects performed a feasibility study to fulfill the urban void for convenience structures. a prefabricated option with minimal earthworks was needed to tie into the chaotic infrastructure and balance with the aesthetic of the prominent archaeological heritage. also suitable for the contemporary districts, a cylindrical exterior takes on the form of a raindrop.

vertical steel ribs bow outward to integrate a bicycle rack. the rusted patina introduces the rustic appearance of ship hulls fund within nearby yards. polished strips on the facade partially reflect the encompassing environment, blending into the diverse locations. the striated elements extend beyond the transparent roof to resemble the tenement rooftops. natural illumination enters the interior during the daytime eliminating the need for artificial lighting. at night, facade backlighting identifies their location to visitors. for ease of operation, a semiautomatic vessel was selected to provide year-round service.

reflective facade mirrors the encompassing parkland

raindrop exterior forms a rack to park bicycles

entrance

interior

entry at night

rib detail

back illumination accentuates the striated facade

entry at night

aerial view

floor plan / level 0

elevations

elevations

axon