High-Traffic Restroom Design: Partitions Built for Stadiums and Arenas

When you’re attending a large event, there is a lot to think about. Often, you’ll check out parking, ensure you have a fully charged phone, or make sure you’re complying with the venue’s regulations on what you can and can’t bring. The last thing on your mind is whether there will be enough bathrooms. 

Whether you’re attending a sporting event, concert, or other special event, you can be sure the area or the stadium you’re in will have enough clean, accessible restrooms. Venues that host thousands simply cannot skimp on their high-traffic restroom designs. Although you may not pay much attention, each arena or stadium has put thought into each bathroom stall. 

High-Traffic Restroom Design Considerations

All high-capacity venues have specific restroom needs. Even places like movie theaters and schools need to make these special considerations to a lesser degree. It’s important that these high-traffic bathrooms are made to be hygienic, durable, and aesthetically pleasing, to name a few considerations. One of the first things designers and builders consider is the partition materials. 

Partition Material Types Overview

There are a few common materials used in high-capacity bathroom partitions. Since these bathrooms need to contain as many stalls as possible in a space, the partition material is a large part of the operation. 

• Solid Plastic. Plastic partitions are made from polymer and are largely chosen for their durability and relatively low cost. They’re also resistant to water and easier to clean than some other options. Solid plastic also has design versatility as it comes in a variety of colors to suit a specific venue’s needs. 

• Laminated Plastic. Similar to solid plastic, laminated plastic is also available in multiple colors, making it a popular choice. However, laminated plastic isn’t as sturdy and water-resistant as solid plastic, meaning the partitions may need more maintenance than other materials. 

• Stainless Steel. Stainless steel is one of the most expensive bathroom partition material types. To that end, stainless steel is also highly durable and puts up the best against wear and tear. Many venues opt for stainless steel for its timeless, pleasing look. 

• Powder-Coated Steel. Venues looking for quality at a more affordable price tend to choose powder-coated steel for their partitions. These partitions offer the same aesthetically pleasing look and relative durability as stainless steel, making them a more budget-friendly option. 

Durability

As you can see above, one of the top considerations for high-traffic restroom design is durability. Thousands of people use arena and stadium bathrooms each day, so the sinks, toilets, and partitions mustn’t break down easily. Along with choosing the right material, manufacturers add touches to promote stability, such as adding corner exterior welds and headrail bracing. 

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Hygiene

Restrooms are known for being breeding grounds for germs, so it’s critical for designers to use hygienic materials in high-traffic bathrooms. Materials should be easy to wipe down, resistant to water, and non-porous to keep bacteria and mold from growing. Not only do these considerations keep a restroom clean, but they also minimize the inevitable odors usually found in bathrooms. 

Privacy

When you’re in a bathroom stall, you don’t want to feel like the dozens of others outside can see you. Privacy is a larger part of bathroom partition designs, and some venues even opt for full-height partitions to amplify it. Certain materials, like powder-coated steel, can also offer some sound-dampening properties. 

Aesthetics

Things like choosing the right paint color and lighting can make a big difference in the look of a restroom. As mentioned above, stainless and powder-coated steel are a popular high-traffic restroom choice due to their classic look. However, plastic options can offer more of a variety for venues looking to display certain logos or other design options. 

Safety and ADA-Compliance

Large crowds require a certain level of safety precautions, including ensuring spaces like restrooms are accessible for individuals with physical disabilities. Restroom door handles must be at the proper ADA-compliant height and equipped with emergency releases. These measures make it possible for all people to use the bathroom facilities safely. 

Efficiency

Arenas and stadiums hold a literal crowd, making it easy for areas to get congested due to the sheer number of people. Bathroom congestion is a major issue so many designers prioritize efficiency and flow when it comes to high-capacity restrooms. Stall partitions should be slim yet durable while still ensuring privacy for patrons. 

Appreciating High-Traffic Bathroom Design

Next time you use a restroom in a high-capacity event venue, pay attention to the ways it was designed for your safety, privacy and convenience. Looking at the stall placement and design, you’ll be grateful for quality bathroom partition suppliers. If you don’t notice the particular high-traffic restroom design, even better – that means it was laid out so well it didn’t even register. Somewhere, the designers and manufacturers involved in creating that space are proud.