The ancient technique is not only an expression of beauty and etiquette but one of the highest forms of honor and respect when bestowed upon its receiver.
In order to replicate the Origata technique and the precise folds of paper that embody it, I chose steel plates to create the exterior's structure and facade."
The red color show us an intervention that is easily seen, recogniable and telegraph a sense of urgency. The toilet is divided into three, with a wheelchair-accessible bathroom, female toilet and male toilet aligned in a row with the male toilet at the tip of the triangle.
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.
Project description by Nao Tamura
The bathroom is a place where we address physical needs universal to all mankind, regardless of age, sexual identity, nationality, religion, or skin color. As we come into an age of increased awareness, how can a communal space like the public bathroom evolve in order to effectively accommodate our infinitely diverse needs?
Living in New York, I have been privileged to witness the LGBTQ+ community living in alignment with their sexual identities. 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. I realized that what enables each user a comfortable experience boils down to safety, privacy and urgency. With this in mind, I created three separate spaces that redefine the way a public bathroom establishes personal space.
The design was 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.
This design represents my hope for a society where people from all walks of life feel safe and are able to thrive.
