Liangzi Lake is the second largest freshwater lake in Hubei Province. The area is often enveloped in mist, with hazy skies and waters that evoke a feeling of “steaming clouds and dreamy waters.” To boost the tourism appeal of the Liangzihu Ecological Tourism Scenic Area, the Hubei Provincial E-tourism Investment Group has taken the lead in upgrading the site to a prestigious 5A scenic spot. As part of this comprehensive enhancement, the facility upgrades include the installation of AAA-rated landscape public restrooms, which serve as key projects and prominent visual landmarks at the scenic dock.
The project is situated on the east bank of Liangzi Lake, nestled within a camphor forest near Changling Wharf. A small town nearby bustles with activity well into the night, making this location an ideal spot for locals to relax and socialize.
Originally, the design aimed to conceal the entire building within the forest, hiding its function as a public restroom. However, through further discussion, the team redefined the restroom not as an unpleasant necessity but as a space that offers mental relaxation and refreshment. Consequently, the restroom was placed openly on one edge of the forest, enhancing its visibility and serving as a transitional passage between the forest and the garden.
The building features a circular design that promotes easy internal circulation. At its center lies a landscaped courtyard, providing a pleasant space for visitors to relax. Many prefer to gaze upwards at the sky, and thanks to the strong winds of the lakeside and the combination of circular pathways and tall windows, the interior remains well-ventilated and refreshingly cool. One visitor humorously remarked that spending time in the restroom felt like an effortless way to lose five pounds.
To enable rapid construction, the building utilizes a steel structure assembly. The entire structure is elevated, enhancing a sense of lightness. Wooden lattice panels adorn the exterior walls, concealing the windows and allowing the facade to harmonize seamlessly with the surrounding environment. Large circular windows ensure ample natural light inside, even without artificial lighting.
In the early mornings, sunlight filters through the forest, casting dappled light reminiscent of water vapor rising from the lake. The gentle view of Liangzi Lake in the distance adds to the serene atmosphere. Visitors happily come, go, and linger here, forgetting any preconceived notions of public restrooms being “smelly” or “dirty.” This project subtly reshapes the stereotype for both locals and tourists.
In exploring new architectural typologies, the design embraces conventional methods to examine the relationship between architecture, people, and the environment. This approach returns to the simplicity of architecture while aiming to shift perceptions of traditional spaces in a straightforward and effective manner.
Project Drawings
△ Model Diagram
△ General Layout Plan
△ First Floor Plan
△ Section Diagram
△ Analysis Chart
△ Exploded Diagram
△ Form Generation Diagram
△ Detailed Drawings
Project Information
Architectural Design: Original Frame Building
Area: 210 square meters
Project Year: 2022
Photography: Literal Translation of Architectural Photography
Manufacturers: Arrow, Lola, Southwest Aluminum
Lead Architect: Zhou Chao
Design Team: Cai Kekun, Cen Zixin, Liu Han, Liu Luyao (Intern)
Structural Engineer: Xie Jianye
Client: Hubei E-tourism Investment Liangzihu Investment Co., Ltd.
Location: Ezhou City, China
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