Private Toilet

by WBDG Staff

Last updated: 03-13-2007

Overview

The Private Toilet space type refers to toilets that are constructed for the exclusive use of a department, agency, or agency official. Toilets located in the following spaces are not considered Private Toilet space types: Child Care Centers, Health Clinics, Fitness Centers, Judicial Chambers, Enhanced Office (Jury Facilities), Firing Ranges, Detention, and additional toilets related to occupancy requirements in Conference Centers, Auditoriums, and Food Service Dining Areas/Cafeterias.

Space Attributes

As with other toilet/bathroom spaces, ventilation and access are the two most important issues to consider in the design of Private Toilets. In addition, careful selection of water-conserving equipment and fixtures will help reduce water consumption within the facility. Typical features of private toilet space types include the list of applicable design objectives elements as outlined below. For a complete list and definitions of the design objectives within the context of whole building design, click on the titles below.

Accessible

• While Private Toilets are permitted to be adaptable, compliance with the applicable accessibility regulation is recommended. This may include no level change thresholds, installing grab bars, and providing appropriate wheelchair turning space.

Functional / Operational

• Floor: Typically poured-in-place, reinforced concrete slab. For Private Toilets located within raised floor tenant office suites, a composite steel/concrete pedestal raised slab area is provided.
• Ventilation: Typically a 100% direct exhaust system operated by a timer or the building automation system in order to eliminate odors and facilitate quality indoor air.
• Lighting: Typically energy-efficient lighting fixtures, such as recessed fluorescent light fixtures located in the soffit above the lavatory and the toilet, combined with occupancy sensors to minimize energy consumption.
• Access: Private Toilets are typically located in the proximity of the department, agency, or agency official for ease of access.

Sustainable

• Water Conserving Equipment: Water-saving fixtures such as low-flow toilets, urinals, and lavatory faucets. See WBDG Water Conservation for more information.

Example Plans

The following diagram is representative of typical plans.

Example Construction Criteria

For GSA, the unit costs for private toilet space types are based on the construction quality and design features in the following table (PDF 39 KB, 2 pgs). This information is based on GSA's benchmark interpretation and could be different for other owners.

Relevant Codes and Standards

The following agencies and organizations have developed codes and standards affecting the design of private toilets. Note that the codes and standards are minimum requirements. Architects, engineers, and consultants should consider exceeding the applicable requirements whenever possible:

• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
• Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings and Facilities (ADAAG)
• Facilities Standards for the Public Buildings Service, P100, GSA
• International Building Code

Major Resources

WBDG

Building Types

Educational Facilities, Health Care Facilities, Libraries, Office Building, Research Facilities

Design Objectives

Accessible, Sustainable—Protect and Conserve Water

Publications

• Architectural Graphic Standards, 10th Edition by Charles Ramsey, Harold Sleeper, and John Hoke. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 2000.