Red Brick Public Toilet on Liuba Old Street: Innovative Design by Shulin Architectural Design

Nestled along the historic Liuba Old Street in Hanzhong County, the Red Brick Public Toilet by Shulin Architectural Design redefines the concept of civic infrastructure. Positioned within a bustling area surrounded by schools, residential buildings, and bus stops, the facility caters to both residents and the growing number of tourists visiting this scenic ravine town. Across from the toilet lies the Liuba Tourist Service Center, which will soon function as a central hub for visitor services.

Thoughtful Design for Inclusivity

Understanding the diverse needs of users, the architects implemented a dual-toilet system. This includes:

• Unisex toilets for all genders
• Accessible facilities for people with disabilities
• Baby care rooms for families
• Outdoor benches for casual seating

This design ensures comfort, accessibility, and convenience while seamlessly integrating into the community’s daily life.

Structural Clarity with Red Brick and Timber

The building showcases a clear and honest structural language:

• Walls and floors are crafted entirely from traditional red bricks
• Roof structure consists of timber trusses
• Semi-circular arches punctuate the walls, serving either as entrances or as light-filled niches using glass bricks

The exposed materials and simple geometry convey transparency, durability, and architectural readability.

Innovative Use of Light and Translucent Materials

Shulin Architectural Design explored light and shadow through multiple translucent materials:

• Solar boards layered on the roof to diffuse sunlight
• Frosted glass tiles and corrugated glass for facades, doors, and windows

The staggered solar boards create a grid-like pattern, allowing soft, refracted light to gently illuminate the interiors. This interplay of light enhances the sensory experience, enriching the perception of space despite the toilet’s modest size.

Emphasis on Craftsmanship and Transparency

One of the central design principles of this project is honest construction. Every material, joint, and structural element is exposed, leaving no room for decorative concealment. The architects embrace imperfections, seeing them as valuable lessons in craftsmanship and architectural tolerance.

• Brickwork challenges: Glass bricks and red brick layering required precise adjustments
• Roof alignment: Solar boards had to be carefully coordinated with the timber structure

While minor defects exist, the overall design successfully conveys structural clarity, material authenticity, and the intrinsic beauty of traditional craftsmanship.

A New Standard for Public Facilities

The Red Brick Public Toilet exemplifies how small-scale infrastructure can contribute to urban aesthetics and community identity. By prioritizing visibility, accessibility, and natural lighting, Shulin Architectural Design has transformed a simple civic building into an architectural landmark.

This project is a testament to the idea that even the most functional spaces can offer elegance, inclusivity, and thoughtful engagement with their surroundings.

All photographs are works of  Yilong Zhao