Fivedot partnered with Site Workshop to design a new public restroom for Fort Steilacoom Park in Lakewood, Washington, a large regional park known for its open meadows, trails, and remnants of historic farm structures.
Rather than selecting a pre-fabricated restroom unit, the design team and client collaborated on a custom building that integrates more naturally into the park’s rural character. The resulting 812-square-foot structure draws inspiration from the agricultural buildings that once defined the site. Its simple gabled form, exposed wood framing, and durable materials evoke a sense of permanence and familiarity, while remaining efficient and easy to maintain.
The building’s covered porch offers shade and shelter for park visitors, with a wooden swing that adds an unexpected touch of playfulness and community. This whimsy moment transforms an everyday amenity into a small social space that reflects the welcoming spirit of the park itself.
Designed for longevity and adaptability, the restroom is a modest yet thoughtful example of how public infrastructure can be both utilitarian and delightful, blending function with form in service of community life.
