Gonville Place Public Conveniences, Cambridge

Client – Cambridge City Council
Date of Completion – 2003

This winning design in a Cambridge City Council competition to replace a former toilet block is based on an octagonal shape. It incorporates five cubicles, including a disabled person facility and a parent/baby changing room. All cubicles are prefabricated, fitted out in stainless steel with automatic water and soap dispensers, hand dryers and lavatory flush.  A kiosk, for selling magazines and snacks, was included as an added deterrent to vandalism and anti-social behaviour.

The design is loosely based on a merry-go-round inspired by the leisure activities of Parker’s Piece. Materials are robust and in sympathy with the local context.   Stainless steel posts collect rainwater and are enlarged towards the base to discourage bicycle parking.   The rendered walls reinforce the fairground motif and suggest movement as one walks past the varied colours. Large panels of cold cathode lights, which gradually change colour, illuminate the building in the dark and increase the feeling of movement. 

The mural in stainless steel on the kiosk doors, which refers to the elm trees that once lined Parker’s Piece, was designed by Moira Lawson-Humphris, a Fine Art student.