Fumihiko Maki, one of the masters of contemporary Japanese architecture, was commissioned to design other of the public toilets in small Ebisu East Park, also known as “Octopus Park” because of its octopus playground equipment, located in a dense urban area, south Shibuya.
"We are grateful for the opportunity to reconsider the use of public spaces through this public toilet project.
The project site, Ebisu East Park, is a popular neighborhood park that is used as a children's playground and is filled with lush greenery. We wanted this facility to function not only as a public restroom but as a public space that serves as a park pavilion equipped with a rest area.
The project site, Ebisu East Park, is a popular neighborhood park that is used as a children's playground and is filled with lush greenery. We wanted this facility to function not only as a public restroom but as a public space that serves as a park pavilion equipped with a rest area.
Thinking about a variety of users, from children to people on their way to work, we wanted to create a safe and comfortable space that uses a decentralized layout to allow for good sight lines throughout the facility. The cheerful roof that integrates the different sections promotes ventilation and natural light, creating a bright and clean environment while giving the facility a unique appearance similar to playground equipment.
Ebisu East Park is also known as “Octopus Park” because of its octopus playground equipment. We hope this new facility, the “Squid Toilet,” will become a popular addition to the park."
Fumihiko Maki
