clad in milky

In a neighborhood in Tokorozawa City, Japan, Shin Studio has realized a public restroom that doubles as a small meeting point for the community. Clothed in milky-white corrugated panels, and installed under a large circular roof, the structure brightly illuminates and becomes a beacon for the vicinity. Besides the main use, the design team sought to create a welcoming and attractive space that invites passers-by to take a short break, linger and unwind under one roof.

all images by Ichiro Mishima

Named ‘the Infrastructure Plaza’, the structure incorporates a bicycle station, handwashing sink, bench, and high counters that also act as the project's foundation. Slim metal pillars are wedged into the concrete volumes and extend upwards to the roof, forming a covered place below. The minimal yet eye-catching design stands out against the townscape, exuding a fresh atmosphere amidst the vernacular architecture.

Resting on a cubic base, the milky-white boards that wrap the restroom cabin absorb sunlight and warm the air inside the building. As the warmed air generates an updraft, the building is naturally ventilated, and thus, odors do not settle inside. An oversized pendant light is installed inside the restroom, radiating a soft glow during the night. The light is reflected on the round metal ceiling, creating an illusion of extension. Shin Studio aimed to transform the structure itself into a glowing installation, creating a place that ‘contributes to the town both during day and night time’.

semi-transparent boards are used at the upper part of the restroom building

slim metal pillars are wedged into the concrete volumes and extend upwards to the roof

a handwashing sink, along with a bench and high counters, serve as the project's foundation