Universal Design for Public Comfort Stations

We strive to design for all at every level of the built environment. We are looking beyond Gender Neutral design to Universally designed bathrooms, or comfort stations – conceived to be accessible to all people, regardless of gender expression, age, ability, belief, and social structure.

At Alr, we believe architecture should challenge established program traditions and find the opportunity to create public restrooms that are safe, private, and inclusive to all. Inclusive design cannot be limited to a single solution. Our design process for intimate private spaces such as the public comfort station is rooted in the best possible experience for the end user.

Floor-to-ceiling separation within every stall creates a secure, private experience
Clear wayfinding needs to be communicated in a variety of ways, such as, signage in text, picture, braille, and even audio or material cues
Spatial proportions should respond to the evolving needs of all people – exceeding guidelines and code requirements as they exist for accessibility today

Canalside

The reflection of silos on water and use of galvanized steel pay homage to our industrial heritage here in Buffalo, New York.

Flex Classrooms

We know that a learning experience has as much to do with our environment as it does the teachers and students that create those experiences. After the past year, we have all gained a profound appreciation of how important these are to foster development and ignite a love for learning.

Wellness by Design

Whether you are staying home, working from home, or providing essential services each day, we are all learning how to be together apart and how to be creative at home.

Understanding Place

One of the earliest steps in our design process is illustrating the forces that will affect a future design. It is imperative for us to understand how a new project will interact with its surroundings, make us feel, appear throughout the season, and accommodate the needs of future occupants.