Khon Kaen University (KKU) architecture students secured the First Prize and a Highly Commended Prize at the “Sukha Sukhee The Happy Toilet” public restroom design competition. The event, organised by AssetWise Public Company Limited, announced the results on 16 January 2025, drawing 683 submissions from across the nation.
Khon Kaen University students achieved two significant awards in the Student category:
- First Prize (Student Category): Awarded to the team RINGSCAPE+, comprising Mr. Chayanon Chinwong and Mr. Wutthichai Kotcha, 5th-year students from the Department of Architecture.
- Highly Commended Prize (Student Category): Awarded to the team TWIST, comprising Mr. Sutthiphong Khamthit and Mr. Phasathorn Kila, 5th-year students from the Department of Architecture.
Mr. Chayanon Chinwong, the representative for the winning team, shared the creative and distinctive design concept. He noted that contemporary public restrooms are often perceived as poorly maintained, lacking visibility, and posing safety concerns, particularly for children, the elderly, and women. This negative perception stems from enclosed designs, insufficient lighting and ventilation, and blind spots that can lead to undesirable activities.
Team RINGSCAPE+ drew inspiration from the “Annual Ring of a Tree Trunk,” which presents a pattern of overlapping, non-uniform layers. They applied this concept to the spatial planning and boundary definition of their design. This tiered arrangement of spaces generates a sense of continuity, reduces enclosure, and effectively prevents the formation of blind spots.
The proposed open design allows natural light and air circulation to penetrate every area of the restroom, enhancing safety and overall user comfort. Simultaneously, the overlapping rings naturally partition the functional areas without relying on solid walls. This creates a spatial awareness among users, fostering Natural Surveillance and transforming the public restroom’s image into a more open, inviting, and substantially safer facility.
The competition garnered immense interest, with 683 entries submitted nationwide. These submissions showcased innovative concepts intended to transform public restrooms into small spaces that promote happiness and comfort for users. All winning projects underwent rigorous evaluation by a committee of highly qualified experts from diverse disciplines.
This significant success attests to the high quality of education and teaching provided by the Faculty of Architecture, Khon Kaen University, which focuses on developing students’ potential comprehensively. The faculty encourages and supports students to showcase their knowledge and abilities on the national stage, fostering opportunities for creative work. It aims to support the next generation of designers who possess broad vision, social consciousness, and consideration for user well-being. The achievements of both teams not only bring honour to the institution but also reflect the students’ readiness to become professional architects.
News: Kannaphat Sirikiat Photos: Mr. Chayanon Chinwong
