The results of one of the most important initiatives promoting responsible design of public spaces – the Geberit ‘Bathroom Design 2025’ Competition – have been announced. The theme of this year’s edition was a conceptual design for a public toilet in the surroundings of Jasne Błoni in Szczecin – a place of exceptional historical and social significance. Here are the best projects.
This is the 26th edition of the competition aimed at architecture students and graduates, whose idea combines creativity, innovation and social responsibility. Its aim is not only to design a modern sanitary space that is comfortable and accessible to all, but above all to strive to realise the winning design.
Among the projects submitted, the winners of the Grand Prix, distinctions and special prizes were selected, as well as the winners of the Internet poll and the Debut of the Year award.
Winners of the 2025 competition
TheGrand Prix of the XXVI Geberit Competition ‘Bathroom Design 2025’ was awarded to work no. 1236 entitled UZIEMIONA, by Jakub Miśniakiewicz. The project was distinguished for its exceptionally apt and multi-layered approach to the task of designing a public toilet – a seemingly simple object, yet crucial to the quality of urban space. The jury emphasised the maturity and responsibility of the proposed solutions, combining care for the user, the environment and the historical context. The building impresses with its sustainable environmental approach – extensive green roof, limited interference with the site, rainwater retention system, energy-efficient installations and use of natural materials with a low environmental footprint. Particularly noteworthy was the building’s harmonious integration into its surroundings through a streamlined massing with timber construction and rammed earth facades. The modularity of the design allows for flexible function, while the thoughtful spatial organisation ensures full accessibility and intuitive use.
The work also won a special award for interior design, appreciated for its consistent material solutions, consistent colour scheme and the use of skylights to bring natural light into the space.
The first degree distinction was awarded to work no. 1448, VERDE, by Dawid Roszkowski. The project was appreciated for the clear idea consistently realised from concept to construction solutions. Coloured glulam was used in a bold but harmonious way in relation to the surroundings.
Attention was drawn to the simplicity, restraint and design flexibility, allowing the building to adapt to different locations. The work is also notable for its skilful use of rainwater and surrounding resources.
Second degree distinction was awarded to work no. 1173, MIĘDZY MURAMI, by Mikołaj Gniadzik and Michał Gursztyn. The design was partially recessed below ground level, creating a soft entrance space and maintaining a delicate relationship with the architecture of the City Hall building.
Among other things, the green roof visible from the upper floors and the subdued composition of the forms were appreciated.
The Special Award for Eco Design went to work no. 1136, HORTUS SANITATIS, by Gabriela Zielinska and Wojciech Zablocki. The concept was singled out for its wide range of eco-friendly solutions – including the use of wood and hemp concrete to improve the microclimate and reduce CO₂ emissions, as well as an innovative rainwater retention system.
The design demonstrates sensitivity to the needs of diverse user groups and a harmonious relationship with the surrounding park.
Two entries were recognised in the Debut of the Year competition, which included a paid internship at a selected architectural firm:
- ZIELONE BŁONIA (No. 1114), by Arkadiusz Kuciński
The project was praised for its technical proficiency, its ability to think in terms of barrier-free space and its conscious use of ecological solutions such as a flower meadow, a retention green roof or a self-sufficient water management system.
- AVENUE (No. 1270), by Julia Zapart, Zuzanna Lesik, Monika Turkowska and Mikołaj Mateusiak. The jury drew attention to the subtlety of the design, lightness of form and ecological approach. The title avenue connects the functions of the building, providing a comfortable, barrier-free flow. The wooden façades and the steel tube screen give the project a distinctive but unobtrusive character.
A record 17,000 votes were cast in the poll of internet users. The highest acclaim went to work No. 1355, Verdigris Pavillon, by Mateusz Fryźlewicz, Katarzyna Józefczyk, Nikodem Franczyk and Natalia Opoka, receiving more than 850 votes.
The Association of Polish Architects, Szczecin Branch, was a partner of the competition.
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