This event marks the launch of Servicing Utopia, which asks what 'utopia in the 21st century' means, in architectural terms, for many different people and communities. The project starts from the position that adequate toilet provision is about the right for all people to access and participate fully in public and civic life. It is focused upon engaging with architects about the toilet design process, to develop a ‘toilet toolkit’.

The project builds on a previous research project Around the Toilet, which worked with trans*, queer and disabled people to explore the complex question of what it means to have access to safe and comfortable toilet spaces. Around the Toilet revealed that a lack of adequate toilet facilities has profound implications for many people in terms of their ability to access events and activities, engage with work, travel within towns and cities, and integrate within communities.

The launch event will bring together partners from the Around the Toilet project with architects to critically interrogate the toilet design process. The event will include a series of short presentations about issues of access to safe and comfortable toilet spaces. Insights from these presentations will inform a workshop, led by Tom Gayler, an information experience designer from the Royal College of Art, to reimagine Part M of the building regulations.

The aim of this event is to gather ideas and inspiration for the form and content of the Toilet Toolkit. We are seeking attendance from planners, architects, and interior and product designers to help guide how we develop the Toolkit so that it is applicable in design practice. All attendees will be able to access the Toolkit once complete.

The final Toolkit will be launched on 24th to 26th June 2016 at the Utopia Fair at Somerset House, London.

Access information

More information on getting to the venue here: http://www.arthousesheffield.co.uk/contact/
A vegan/vegetarian buffet lunch will be available upon arrival; please do let us know if you have specific dietary requirements
Tea, coffee, juice and water will be provided throughout the event
There is step-free access to the building and the exhibition space, which is on the ground floor
There is access to a disabled toilet
A quiet cafe space, next to the exhibition space, can be accessed throughout the event
We endeavour to make this event as accessible as possible. Please let us know if you have any more access questions or requirements.

PROGRAMME WILL BE ADDED SHORTLY

LAUNCH EVENT - Servicing Utopia: Social change through accessible design