Public toilets: a necessity and a challenge in art cities and historical towns
Public toilets are a crucial part of the touristic reception in art cities; their integration in the precious urban fabric, though, requires a balance among practicality, technology and respect for the artistic and historical heritage. Often overlooked in the urban planning, public toilets are indeed a key connecting point among architecture, functionality and spaces fruition.
In Sano2 we believe that a high quality public toilet can improve any environment, along with the urban experience of any individual, especially in contexts of high cultural value. This is why we design solutions that can transform these essential services in actual urban elements, harmonizing with the surrounding architecture while maintaining high functionality standards.
A guide to the creation of public toilets in art cities
Why are public toilets essentials in art cities?
Art cities are major tourist destinations, welcoming millions of visitors every year, thus creating an obvious need of adequate public toilets. As a matter of fact, the lack of high quality toilets can compromise the experience of both citizens and tourists in their fruition of the artistic heritage. Being indispensable facilities – especially for art cities – public toilets and their installation must be carefully planned in order to facilitate an harmonic integration in the urban fabric of historical city centres.
The installation of public toilets in historical contexts must follow a complex regulatory system, which includes hygiene, safety and accessibility elements. Rules vary according to regional and municipal regulations, with local construction protocols often containing specific rules concerning public spaces. At Sano2 we are ready to provide assistance and support following regulations in any context.
In cultural contexts, can public toilets appear as urban design elements, all the while respecting the city historical heritage?
Public toilets cannot be considered as mere utilitarian infrastructures, especially in art cities. At Sano2 we work for an evolution of public toilet facilities, not only at an operational level, but also as a concept: we consider public toilets as true elements of urban decor, combining functionality and aesthetics while respecting the identity of the city. Through the use of customizable designs – in style, materials and finishes – we respect any context of installation. Our Decò design, for instance, is conceived to harmonize with the outdoor spaces of art cities, respecting conservation and environmental restrictions. Thanks to a wide range of finishes to choose among, we can design public toilets for any contexts, ranging from classic to contemporary. The versatility we offer allow us to respect the aesthetic restriction imposed by Soprintendenze dei Beni Culturali (Superintendence for Cultural Heritage) – which are particularly strict in areas of historical or artistic value – at the same time granting public toilets with functional and respectful designs.
Which kind of public toilets do you recommend for art cities?
For cities with high touristic inflow, where public toilets are very frequently used, we always recommend the installation of self-cleaning toilets, advanced solutions combining technology, sustainability and customisable design.
Our series S3, S4, and, especially, S5, can offer advanced levels of automation, sanitation and customization. S5 technology, in particular, integrates revolutionary sanitation, remote monitoring and optimised consumption management systems, thus granting the highest operating efficiency and a reduction in environmental impact. Each of our toilets guarantees universal access – its measurements complying with regulations – and optimised spaces to facilitate wheelchair movements. It is also possible to customise on demand internal equipment, adjustable supports and heights, assistance system and inclusive signage.
We know that the installation of self-cleaning toilets in art cities can require various kinds of collocation; thus we offer:
Indoor self-cleaning toilets
Self-cleaning toilets can be installed with indoor solutions both to rehabilitate a pre-existing facility and to integrate in new buildings. This flexibility is crucial in cities with a high cultural value, where space is often limited and restricted by rigid preservation rules. With a minimal impact on the urban fabric, these installations follow the original structural characteristic of the building, while granting maximum functionality and hygiene.
Outdoor self-cleaning toilets
When the choice falls upon an outdoor installation, Sano2 offers facilities that can be customised according to the context. Every art city presents unique characteristics which require a tailored approach. We develop custom-made projects taking into consideration architectural restrictions, visitors needs and specific requirements of local authorities or private individuals.
In case of installation of toilets on behalf of private individuals or public institutions, how does your collaboration develop?
We offer a complete service, including consultation, planning, installation and maintenance, both for private individuals and public institutions wishing to improve the offer of public toilets for their art cities.
Our approach includes:
Preliminary demands analysis. We study tourism inflow and the specific characteristics of the city in order to identify the best location.
Regulatory support. We support private individuals and administrative authorities in the authorization process with Superintendence and other responsible bodies.
Custom-made planning. We develop tailored solutions respecting local architectural characteristics.
Professional Installation. We coordinate every step of the process, with a minimal impact on urban and touristic activities.
Maintenance Services. Self-cleaning technologies reduce the necessity of frequent manual interventions, and, therefore, its costs. Notwithstanding the proven efficiency of our systems, we assist our customer with predictive maintenance solutions and continuous supplies to guarantee functionality and hygiene in time.
Why investing in high quality public toilets?
High quality public toilets improve the touristic experience and strengthen the city image. Functional, accessible and well-designed structures contribute to urban decor and public spaces.
- Higher touristic presence: efficient public toilets can improve the quality of the visit, at the same time encouraging a longer stay.
- Boosting commercial activities: Strategic collocations of public toilets promote stops in shops and restaurants.
- Improving city image: cities with high quality public toilets prove to be more welcoming and appreciated.
- Reduction of vandalism: well-kept and safe structures discourage acts of degradation
- Compliance with international standards: alignment with European standards enhance the cities status as a touristic destination.
- Environmental sustainability: self-cleaning technologies reduce water and electricity consumption.
Self-cleaning toilets are a new opportunity of urban transformation.
How to request a personalized consultation?
Whether you are a municipal authority, a cultural institution or even a private individual interested in improving public toilets in an artistic-historical context, Sano2 is your ideal partner. We offer tailored solutions combining innovation and respect for tradition.
Contact us for a consultation and a non-binding offer: we will analyse your specific needs in order to offer the best solution. You can call, send an e-mail or fill in and send the form you will find here: https://www.sano2.com/contact/
We strive to improve and regenerate any public context, because even en essential service can become a distinctive feature of your city!
FAQ – Frequently asked questions about SANO2 toilets
What facilities and types of toilets can you provide?
We understand that each context has specific needs and requires bespoke solutions. That is why our range includes:
- Toilets that can be integrated into existing premises, ensuring maximum adaptability to the space available.
- Precast freestanding outdoor structures
- Toilets without connections when sewer, water and electricity are not available
Our solutions are designed to meet every need: whether you need several toilets in a single room or individual toilets, we at SANO2 we have the ideal project for your space.
Once you have defined the structure, choose the most suitable type of toilet: without connections, traditional or self-cleaning, at SANO2 you will find each of these solutions and all the support you need.
I do not have a drainage, water or electricity. Can you provide me with toilets without plumbing?
Absolutely! Our S0 range of off-grid toilets is designed for areas that are far from water, sewerage and electricity. SANO2’s Bathroom Zero allows you to install a prefabricated bathroom, that is accessible to the disabled, more durable than a chemical toilet and more versatile than a traditional bathroom. Bathroom Zero has a waste water tank to compensate for the lack of a sewer connection, a water storage tankconnected to a rainwater collection system, and two photovoltaic panels to generate the electricity needed to light the bathroom. Plumbing-free solutions are highly valued by users for their added value as eco-friendly and sustainable bathrooms.
When it comes to materials, fittings and finishes, you are spoilt for choice! Visit the design page of our projects!
What kind of access can I install in the toilets?
Entrance and exit systems for the toilets depend on the needs of the customers and the area, which is why we offer several options.
Access can be free or paid, coin-operated or contactless with Nayax readers (you decide how much to set!).
Again, you can choose the access system by reading a QR code, a tax code or a EuroKey.
Do you want to buy a public toilet privately or do you want to respond to a public tender with your toilet project?
Whether you want to buy a public toilet as a private individual or you need a public toilet project for a tender, perhaps as a construction company, architect or town hall technician, at SANO2 we design public toilets of all types, from those without plumbing to self-cleaning models.
As a global company, one of our main values is to respect the context, the regulations in each country, but above all, to respect the needs of the customer.
Tell us about your project, SANO2 will come to you and find solutions for all your needs.
Do you build Accesible Toilets? Can I choose the equipment?
At SANO2 we design, build and install Accessible Toilet And Unisex Toilet. Accessibility is a core value for us and has always been a part of our offering. As an international company, when we design and build toilets for people with disabilities, we always take care to comply with applicable regulations: each country has its own dimensions, equipment, access and measures designed specifically designed for safe use by people with reduced mobility.
Our public toilets are fully customisable, you choose the layout. For example, we can include instructions in Braille or record voice commands in the toilet, we can install the hand shower next to the toilet or include SOS buttons easily accessible from the seat.
You can rely on our experience in the industry and our knowledge of public disabled toilet regulations.
Can I get a maintenance contract for my toilet? How do you manage toilets?
Of course you can! We guarantee the maintenance of our self-cleaning toilets through our All In maintenance service, which is an integral part of our offer. In addition, we can offer a range of maintenance packages on request, depending on your specific needs.
Our All In maintenance service includes:
- Routine maintenance: cleaning and replenishment of consumables, typically twice a month
- Predictive maintenance: thanks to our powerful remote control tool we can intervene before components fail, reducing the time the toilet is inefficient.
- Technical maintenance: carried out by specialised technicians, it involves checking all the automatisms, usually once a month.
- Telephone support: active on working days, we provide assistance and intervene on the toilet, thanks to remote control, solving most of the problems.
Do you have a guarantee on your toilets? For how many years?
Yes, all our toilets are covered by a guarantee. By law, the warranty on manufacturing defects is one year, but we at SANO2 have decided to extend it to 2 years to give you greater peace of mind and security in your investment.