The commercial restroom evolution

Innovation, flexibility and collaboration lead A&D community to design adaptable commercial restrooms.

By Moona Whitice

Modern restroom: green tiled walls, wood vanity, sinks, mirrors, lights, toilet stalls.
Image_Courtesy of Sloan

As an A&D Specialist supporting Florida’s vibrant architecture and design community, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing firsthand how commercial restroom design is undergoing a remarkable transformation. What was once a purely functional space is now a canvas for innovation, where technology, sustainability, and user experience converge to create environments that are not only efficient but also elegant and forward-thinking.

At Spirit Group, we’re proud to be at the forefront of this evolution. As a leading rep manufacturer agency in Florida, we supply high-performance plumbing fixtures to the state’s top wholesalers and subcontractors. But our role goes far beyond distribution. By working closely with engineers and the A&D community, we help shape specifications that reflect the evolving needs of users and the industry as a whole. This unique vantage point allows us to see the pivot from a bird’s-eye view — and to support our partners in delivering solutions that are both visionary and practical.

Here are a few innovative ideas we see shaping the commercial restrooms of the future:

The rise of adaptable restroom design

One of the most exciting shifts we’re seeing is the move toward adaptable restroom layouts. While not always modular in the structural sense, today’s commercial restrooms are being designed with flexibility in mind — whether that means accommodating high-traffic events, integrating new technologies or aligning with evolving wellness standards.

Left: Sloan WETS-2460/3002 Combo: This consists of the ST-2469 Water Closet with the CX 8158 Flushometer. The ST-2469 is a wall-mounted water closet, and the CX 8158 is a sensor-activated flushometer designed for efficiency and durability. Right: Sloan WEUA7010.3001 Combo: This includes the SU-7019 Urinal paired with the CX 8198 Flushometer. The CX 8198 is a concealed sensor flushometer with a fixed volume piston, hands-free operation, and a vandal-resistant wall plate. Images courtesy of Sloan

Smart fixtures & sensor-based innovation

Technology is playing a central role in the evolution of commercial restrooms. Sensor-based systems — from faucets and flush valves to occupancy indicators — are now standard in many new builds. These innovations enhance hygiene, reduce water waste, and streamline maintenance.

At Spirit Group, we’ve seen a surge in demand for AI-powered water management systems that provide real-time data on usage, detect leaks, and optimize performance. These systems are especially valuable in high-traffic environments, where efficiency and uptime are critical.

Sustainability & net-zero goals

Sustainability is no longer a trend — it’s a necessity. Architects and designers are increasingly specifying low-flow fixtures, recycled materials and closed-loop water systems to meet net-zero goals and LEED certification standards.

Spirit Group plays a key role in this process, helping A&D professionals select products that align with both performance and environmental objectives. We work hand-in-hand with manufacturers like Sloan to ensure that sustainable solutions are not only specified, but also successfully implemented.

The Concours Club, in Opa-locka, Florida

A standout example are the newly completed restrooms at The Concours Club, a luxury automotive venue in Miami. Designed by P2 Interiors and outfitted with Sloan’s fixtures, this project exemplifies how thoughtful planning and premium materials can elevate the restroom experience to match the sophistication of the broader space.

At The Concours Club, P2 Interiors incorporated low-VOC finishes, energy-efficient lighting and water-saving fixtures that reflect a deep commitment to environmental stewardship.

The Concours Club restrooms feature touchless faucets in a custom graphite finish, seamlessly blending luxury with functionality. It’s a perfect example of how smart technology can be integrated into high-end design without compromising aesthetics.

Sensor-based systems — from faucets and flush valves to occupancy indicators — are now standard in many new builds and remodels. Pictured above: Sloan's Clark Street faucet EBF-415 in Graphite ( Black) with matching soap dispenser on a Designer Series Sloan Sink System. Images courtesy of Sloan

Today’s commercial restrooms are being designed with flexibility in mind — whether that means accommodating high-traffic events, integrating new technologies, or aligning with evolving wellness standards.

P2 Interiors’ perspective

As a design partner on The Concours Club project, P2 Interiors brought a refined, intentional approach to every detail of the restroom experience. Their perspective on the future of commercial restrooms aligns closely with the trends we’re seeing across the industry.

“As commercial restroom design evolves, it is increasingly shaped by the intersection of technology, sustainability, adaptability and social awareness,” says Patty Herrera, executive director at P2 Interiors. “Sensor-based systems are enhancing hygiene and operational efficiency, while sustainable materials and closed-loop water systems support net-zero environmental goals. At the same time, modular layouts allow restrooms to flex with changing traffic patterns and user needs.

The new luxury event space is designed with every guest touchpoint in mind. Outfitted with custom-designed sinks and touch-less Sloan faucets in a unique finish, these restrooms reflect the same level of sophistication and comfort found throughout this state-of-the-art venue.

We at P2 Interiors, design with intention in every moment and every detail — because it all matters.”

At Spirit Group, we don’t just respond to trends — we help shape them. By collaborating with engineers, architects, designers and contractors, we ensure that every fixture we represent is part of a larger vision. Whether it’s guiding product selection, supporting specifications, or facilitating education, we’re committed to helping our partners deliver exceptional results.

Our work with P2 Interiors and Sloan at The Concours Club is just one example of how collaboration can lead to truly transformative outcomes. It’s a reminder that when design, technology, and plumbing expertise come together, the result is more than just a restroom — it’s a reflection of what’s possible.

Looking ahead

As we look to the future, the commercial restroom will continue to evolve, driven by innovation, sustainability, and the changing needs of users. For those of us in the plumbing and design industries, this evolution is both a challenge and an opportunity.

At Spirit Group, we’re proud to be part of this journey. And as we continue to support Florida’s A&D community, we remain committed to helping our partners create spaces that are not only compliant but compelling, efficient, and inspiring.

Moona Whitice is an A&D Specialist at The Spirit Group, a Florida-based manufacturers rep agency.