— Since 2024
Excretion is one of the most fundamental human behaviors, an act performed for millions of years, long before the invention of modern toilets. Recognizing this primal human need, we drew inspiration from the essential purpose of a toilet to create a design that transforms a part of Madison Square Park in Manhattan, New York. Our goal is to evoke a raw, elemental experience that echoes humanity’s earliest forms of shelter and the simplicity of our origins.
Project Credit:
Yang Fei (Architecture, Field Object Lab), Mengyu Zhao (Architecture), Chengzhe Zhang (Landscape)
Our design seeks to offer a momentary sanctuary within the bustling urban landscape of Manhattan, envisioning a structure that recalls a primitive cave, crafted from natural materials that harmonize with the park’s surroundings. The exterior, with its raw and unrefined mossy rock finish, stands in stark contrast to the surrounding urban architecture, inviting visitors to step away from the city’s relentless pace and into a space of calm and reflection. Inside, the space is designed to evoke tranquility and a profound connection to nature. Soft, diffused sunlight filters through leaves and enters through skylights, while earthy textures and organic forms create a tactile, immersive environment.
This toilet transcends its basic function—it honors the ancient act of excretion while offering a sanctuary for this most fundamental human need. It provides not just a physical break from the demands of urban life, but also a place for mental and emotional respite. Here, users can reconnect with their inner selves and the natural world, finding peace amidst the chaos of the city.
