Gender-neutral washrooms: improve flow and reduce queuing in venues with sudden surges
Gender neutral washrooms offer a practical, space-optimising solution for cafes, restaurants, offices and other commercial spaces. By combining privacy, accessibility and smart layouts, you can cut waiting times, improve customer flow and create a respectful environment for everyone. This article gives clear, practical advice - no opinions - on meeting regulations, ensuring privacy, and designing efficient gender-neutral washrooms.
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Watch our 60-second article overview
Benefits of gender-neutral washrooms
Installing gender neutral washrooms brings two key advantages:
Shorter queues – One shared set of cubicles means fewer separate lines and faster access during surges.
Flexible use – Any guest or staff member can use the next available cubicle, making the most of limited space.
To explore tailored solutions, see our commercial washroom services.
Regulation and compliance for gender neutral washrooms
Important points are:
Equality Act 2010 – You must avoid discrimination and provide reasonable adjustments.
Building Regulations Part M – Sets minimum requirements for accessible toilets and washrooms.
EHRC interim guidance – The Equality and Human Rights Commission’s update explains how the UK Supreme Court ruling affects non-segregated facilities. Read the full guidance on the EHRC website.
For more on choosing the right unisex layout, check our school-focused insight on gender neutral and unisex toilets, which can apply to commercial sites too.
Key design considerations: privacy, safety and respect
Keep these practical points in mind when designing gender neutral washrooms:
Full-height partitions for privacy and noise reduction
Lockable doors with clear “occupied” and “vacant” signs (a simple red or green dot lock is effective)
Enough space to meet Part M access rules
Clear signs using simple symbols everyone understands
Durable finishes that are easy to clean and maintain
These steps help you meet rules and make all users feel comfortable.
Frequently asked questions
What makes a washroom truly gender neutral?
A gender neutral washroom features private, full-height cubicles that can be used by anyone, regardless of gender. Each cubicle should have a secure lock, clear “vacant” and “engaged” indicators, and sufficient space for user comfort. These washrooms are typically designed without gendered signage and include shared hand washing areas, clear wayfinding, and thoughtful layouts that promote privacy and respect. They should also meet all relevant building and accessibility regulations.
How much space do I need per cubicle?
For standard cubicles in gender neutral layouts, the typical internal dimensions are around 900 mm to 1,000 mm wide by 1,500 mm deep. These sizes suit most users and allow for efficient use of limited floor space. For wheelchair accessible cubicles, Building Regulations Part M recommends at least 1,500 mm x 2,200 mm, with a 1,500 mm turning circle to allow easy manoeuvring. Doors for accessible cubicles should open outward and feature grab rails, alarms, and a shelf or bag hook. We always recommend including at least one accessible cubicle in every washroom.
Can existing washrooms be converted?
Yes. Existing washrooms can be reconfigured into gender neutral layouts by adapting the cubicle arrangement, replacing signage, and installing full-height partitions. This often involves removing gendered divisions, consolidating shared hand washing areas, and checking that door swings and circulation spaces meet current standards.
Our team can survey your space and provide clear recommendations - whether it’s a light-touch refurbishment or a full redesign. For more details, view our process or request a free survey.
