Bobrick Privada 2016-2017

Designers: Dan Harden, Hiro Teranishi, and Elliot Ortiz, Whipsaw, Inc., San Jose, California, USA
Manufacturer: Bobrick Washroom Equipment, Inc., North Hollywood, California, USA

PRIVADA is a high-end toilet partitioning system. It is designed to meet the discerning needs of architects, building developers and end users that want a beautiful, simple and functional restroom solution. Upon entering a Privada restroom, visitors are greeted with a clean, warm and fresh appearance. Flush doors with minimal gaps between panels give Privada an increased level of privacy. The handle and lock hardware feature elegant forms, intuitive operation, and durable stainless steel construction. Panel materials were chosen with sustainability in mind and contain 30-100% recycled content. Privada is quintessential restroom design: elegant, clean, smart.

Privada’s design brief focuses on (1) an integrated modular system that fits spaces of different shapes and sizes; and (2) balancing sophisticated, high-end design with the durability, hygiene, and ease of use/maintenance required for a public space. To address these two main goals we set out to design a system with no visible hardware, while maintaining strength and support in the overall structure. To achieve this hardware solution the team required an in-depth understanding of the step-by-step installation process.

A hidden hardware solution for the feet became the biggest challenge as this area takes the most abuse. The design had to hide the nuts and bolts, be robust yet attractive, anti-corrosive, and cost-efficient to produce. The feet had to be adjustable to compensate for uneven floors as well as match security and/or privacy preferences.

The Privada restroom end result is a joy to see and use. Privada’s frame construction is unique as the panels are suspended on a patented telescoping leveler that bolts to the ground. This structural approach allows for height adjustments and level correction on uneven floors. All fasteners on Privada are concealed. Flush doors with minimal gaps between panels give Privada an increased level of privacy.

Within this minimal and seamless appearance, the true power of the design solution is found in the details, especially the touch points. The handle and lock hardware feature elegant forms, intuitive single-action operation, and durable stainless steel construction. A tasteful bag / coat hanger fits in seamlessly with the overall design language and other operational attributes to aid the visitor at all times.

In addition, Privada offers superb customization options without losing any of the high-end appeal or exceptional functionality. Custom options include multiple colors, faux finishes (wood, tile) as well as the size of the panels and stalls. Architects appreciate this level of extreme customization.

The Privada system also brings an improved hygiene to public restroom users. Flush panels and hidden hardware make it much easier to thoroughly clean and maintain, a welcome bonus for janitorial personnel.

Restrooms are a necessity in our society and there is no reason they should be poorly designed. On the contrary, every individual deserves a clean, nice and respectful restroom environment. A timeless, durable design that doesn’t need regular updating or replacement makes this high-end Privada system a worthwhile investment. The less industrial feel of Privada brings more comfort and relaxation to the public restroom experience. Panel materials were chosen with sustainability in mind and contain 30-100% recycled content.