History and Adaptation of the Bathroom Through the Industrial Revolution

Bathroom designed by Zaha Hadid

Abstract

The aim of this research paper is to look at the history and adaptation of bathrooms in the United States. “Paired with the increasing importance of hygiene in Ameri­can culture, the bathroom was poised to influence all areas of domestic life” (Adams 25). We can see how the culture of bathrooms has developed through the history of public restrooms and their effect on personal safety and hygiene. This research examines the development and adaptation history of public and private restrooms, with an emphasis on public safety, and the innovation of the earth-closet. The main theme of this research is the progression of restrooms, focusing on hygiene and design of various bathrooms and sewer systems,  and their connection to the Industrial Revolution. Observing and researching the phenomena of the restroom gives the public an insight of the cultural and political consensus and identity of the past, and to see where it stands now, which is why this research is important. I have conducted this research through extensive studies of floor plans and various academic writing. I have also gained knowledge on this topic within research of documents in libraries and galleries, as well as observations found through primary and secondary sources. The primary implication of this research leads to display how the Industrial Revolution has impacted the development of the restroom, through new technology like the sewer system. Another significant finding of this research is the invention of the earth-closet, and its impact.

Bibliography

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Examines the evolution of American bathrooms and their design. Art Deco and minimalism.

Beecher, Catharine Esther. “The American Woman’s Home: or, Principles of Domestic Science; Being a Guide to the Formation and Maintenance of Economical, Healthful, Beautiful, and Christian Homes.” Find in a Library with WorldCat, www.worldcat.org/title/american-womans-home-or-principles-of-domestic-science-being-a-guide-to-the-formation-and-maintenance-of-economical-healthful-beautiful-and-christian-homes/oclc/7875017.

Greed, Clara. Inclusive Urban Design: Public Toilets. 1st ed., taylor & francis, 2003.

History of public safety and restrooms.

“Information.” Arts Development, 26 Jan. 2017, bccad.wordpress.com/home-2/edwardian-cloakroomsinformation/information/.

The Miriam and Ira D. Wallach Division of Art, Prints and Photographs: Photography Collection, The New York Public Library. “Washing facilities in the home of Elmer Johnson, hired farmhand. Near Battle Ground, Indiana. His employer has a bathroom in a modern house” The New York Public Library Digital Collections. 1937.

Manuscripts and Archives Division, The New York Public Library. “Town of Tomorrow – Houses – Interior – Bathroom” The New York Public Library Digital Collections. 1935 – 1945. https://digitalcollections.nypl.org/items/5e66b3e9-1c5f-d471-e040-e00a180654d7https://digitalcollections.nypl.org/items/3d2e5e40-aae0-0136-e05a-03637b3d1fb9

Greed, Clara. Inclusive Urban Design: Public Toilets. 1st ed., taylor & francis, 2003.

History of public safety and restrooms.