A bathroom is one of the most important areas in any public space, no matter how many people visit it on a daily basis. The importance of restrooms is determined by their functionality: this is quick access to basic amenities, and therefore, such areas should be easily identifiable within your space. This is what restroom signage is designed for — marking restrooms is now easy and creative.
Restroom signs have appeared in ancient times because even ancient Greeks and Romans realised the importance of quick wayfinding. However, these days we are not limited to clay and wood tablets only — the technologies give us room for creativity. Why not use it and make our restroom signage effective from all perspectives?
Think on Versatility
It is interesting to learn that the usual male and female symbols we can see almost in every restroom appeared not so long ago. Although restroom signs have been in use for centuries, male and female symbols appeared only in the 60s as a marker of globalisation, intended to create symbols that will be understandable to everyone regardless of their origins and cultural backgrounds.
And this idea actually works. Once we see a standard male symbol, we understand that the restroom behind the door is intended for men. You should not neglect the versatility and universalism of those symbols. In terms of interior wayfinding, versatility means simplicity, and simplicity is one of the most important aspects of space organisation.
Pay Attention to Inclusivity
At the end of the previous century, people started thinking about making public spaces, especially restrooms, more accessible and inclusive. This is why the Americans with Disabilities Act appeared, intended to eliminate all the boundaries that did not allow disabled individuals to enjoy common access to basic amenities.
Of course, this shift influences restroom door signage as well. Here are the main features to take into consideration:
- Tactile characters: When you incorporate tactile characters and Braille fonts into your restroom door signage, you make sure that all visitors, even those with vision impairments, will be able to identify it if not by glance rather than by touch.
- Proper placement: Restrooms are permanent areas, and that is why restroom signs should be placed securely. At the same time, you should consider the height of placement, in order to make sure that everyone will see it from a distance.
- Extra solutions: Restroom signs should not only be ADA-compliant themselves, but they should also mark rooms that correspond to the inclusivity requirements. Handicap restrooms should be spacious for people on wheelchairs, and they should also include special stalls.
- Durability: To make sure that the symbols and characters will not fade out from your restroom door plaque, buy signs made of durable materials, like stainless steel, acrylic glass, and wood.
Add a Touch of Fun and Humor
Last but not least, who said that certain standards limit you from expressing your sense of humor?
A restroom sign is a good place to add some funny inscriptions and slogans. For example, if you want to promote gender inclusivity in your unisex restroom, you can add something like “Whatever you are — just wash your hands”. Or you can mark a bathroom as an area to which people should “Get when nature calls”.
The opportunities are limitless — from something funny to useful reminders. All you need is to specify your request to an experienced restroom door signage manufacturer that crafts custom-made plaques. Bsign is the best option to consider.