The lure of the loo: how restaurant bathroom design went wild
Plush or pared back, flatteringly lit or full-on disco camp, a TikTokkable loo is now part of the hospitality experience
TL;DR
- Historically, restaurant bathroom cleanliness was a key indicator of a restaurant's overall standards, as noted by Anthony Bourdain.
- Modern restaurant bathrooms have become significant design features, often incorporating elaborate themes, custom lighting, soundscapes, and selfie-friendly amenities.
- Social media, particularly TikTok, has played a major role in popularizing unique and 'Instagrammable' restroom designs.
- The post-Covid era has seen a shift towards more immersive and atmosphere-forward dining spaces, extending to restrooms.
- Designers are focusing on creating memorable 'touch points' beyond the meal itself, including the bathroom experience.
- The privacy and potential for social media moments in restrooms are being actively leveraged by designers and operators.
- Some establishments are implementing time limits or security measures to manage excessive use of restrooms for filming or prolonged stays.
- While some see the trend as forced or gimmicky, others believe these elaborate bathrooms offer added value and an essential part of the modern hospitality experience.