SAHARA Highlights: Public Bathrooms

Mar 13, 2024 by SAHARA Co-Editors Jacqueline Spafford and Mark Hinchman, and Associate Editor Jeannine Keefer

Wim Wenders’ latest film Perfect Days follows the routine of a Tokyo toilet cleaner who takes great pride in his work. The film showcases the outstanding public toilet designs in Tokyo and has brought the architect-designed facilities into the spotlight so much that tours are now offered. This spurred an interest in seeing what examples of public bathroom design SAHARA might hold, and it did not disappoint. The collection includes ancient public latrines, historic “privies,” cleverly repurposed buildings and materials, and some surprising locations.

Reminder: the SAHARA transition to JSTOR is nearing completion, and SAHARA images are now available alongside print materials, including JSAH. You can view SAHARA on JSTOR: with your log-in (the same as your SAH and current SAHARA log-in) you can see both the open access Community Collection, as well as the Members Collection: https://www.jstor.org/site/sahara/. You should also see any Image Groups you’d saved, now under Workspaces. Please contact the editors if you are having any problems. For contact information, and to learn more about contributing, visit: http://www.sah.org/publications-and-research/sahara.

Petra, Jordan, founded ca 312 BC. Public restrooms in tomb, early 21st century. Photograph by Dell Upton, 2016.

Isamu Noguchi, Music Shell, Moerenuma Park, Hokkaido, Japan, 1988-2005. The structure in the background elegantly hides restrooms, as well as reflects sound. Photograph by Sarah Rovang, 2018.

Colter Farm privies, Dumbarton Center, Merrimack, New Hampshire, 1800-1850. The structures accommodate adults and children. Photograph by Dell Upton, 1974.

Hanover County Courthouse, Hanover, Virginia, 1735. View of gatehouse made from latrine. Photograph by Dell Upton, 2019.

Alabama Remote Rural Studio, Morrisette Bathroom, Newbern, Alabama, 1999. This bathhouse was built for student use, incorporating reclaimed materials. Photograph by Danielle Willkens.

Madden Fabrications, The Portland Loo, Portland, Oregon, 2006-present. The structures are built with graffiti-proof stainless-steel walls that can be easily cleaned. Photograph by Dell Upton, 2012.