Overview.

Marion Design Co’s. interior design team was asked to renovate six commercial restrooms for guests and employees at Hartson-Kennedy Cabinet Top Co. while highlighting creative methods for applying their laminate materials as inspiration.

Background.

Marion is home to one of the largest manufacturers of postformed laminate countertops in the United States. Hartson-Kennedy Cabinet Top Company, established in 1948, is an award winning company noted for its family-like atmosphere among its employees and careful attention to detail for its customers. Their headquarters houses six restrooms used by hundreds of employees and guests. The restrooms were outdated and ready for a refresh. 

In 2021, Chris Kennedy, CEO, requested Marion Design Co. create design proposals for their six restrooms within a short timeline so they were ready for upcoming visits by key business partners. The spaces needed to highlight Hartson-Kennedy’s products. The locations were key to who would be using the spaces most frequently, so design intent was clear for the main entrance restrooms, conference room restrooms, and employed office restrooms. The previous restrooms we designed as separate men’s and women’s restrooms. HK requested we create a more flexible environment so any restroom could be used by anyone.

Objectives.

materiality

Each of the restrooms utilized Hartson-Kennedy’s laminate and cabinets in unique ways. From countertop shapes and configurations to wall covering, the room’s materials create visual and tactile appeal. For this proposal, we designed the pairs of restrooms with materials that were gender neutral

lighting

Creative and unexpected application of lighting as a design element was key to enhancing the company’s laminate and cabinet appeal. From Sputnik lights acting as sculpture in a corner to lit mirror of square and round shapes, the user not only has clear visibility but is also delighted by the unique application of light’s attributes.

functionality

It’s critical that function is top priority when it comes to restrooms. From space planning to equipment, every decision was intentional for ensuring a seamless user experience. Our creativity came into play as we came up with solutions that served their purpose with beauty. For instance, we applied decorative metal supports typically used as table legs as a countertop base.

accessibility

As for any commercial restroom, it was important to ensure accessibility. Therefore, ADA standards were applied where the current spaces allowed. From custom cabinets to appropriate spatial approaches for sinks and toilets, accessible design was applied.

Process.

Our interior design process leads us through Programming, Visualization, Design, and Implementation. After research of the client’s needs, taking site measurements, and analysis of the current conditions, we drafted demolition plans in preparation for the new design layouts. As we ideated and researched materials, our drawings took the form of sketchy hand renderings for visualization to cut down on time in order to meet tight deadlines. We worked collaboratively with the client throughout the whole process to ensure we were meeting their needs appropriately. As decisions were finalized, we created spreadsheets with specifications for ordering materials and worked with the contractors to ensure all of the details were considered. We were on site communicating with installers until the work was completed according to the standards we required.

Results.

The six restrooms act as pairs with each design reinforced by its adjacent restroom. With colorful wallpaper, unique light fixtures, creatively applied materials, and ease of function, each design is cohesive and inspirational. 

The client is able to use the restrooms as models to show clients and vendors various applications of their products with pride. The new designs have brought their once-outdated spaces into current but classic trends that will last for years to come.