In the rapidly evolving urban landscape of Manchester, where the skyline is constantly transforming with new developments, there is a growing focus on the inclusivity of public spaces. As part of this shift, the integration of gender-neutral language and signage has become increasingly important. One of the most significant developments in this area is the introduction of "superloos"—compact, self-contained restroom facilities that include a toilet, vanity unit, and hand-drying facilities all housed behind a full-height door. This design not only offers complete privacy but also represents a progressive step toward gender inclusivity. However, as designers, we are faced with the challenge of conveying this inclusivity through wayfinding systems, and more specifically, through the choice of icons used to represent these spaces.

Historically, the use of stick figures has been the universal standard for restroom signage. The simplicity and clarity of these icons have made them easily recognisable across cultures and languages. The stick figure, with its minimalist design, has become synonymous with male and female restrooms, creating a visual shorthand that has been universally understood for decades. However, as our understanding of gender evolves beyond the binary concept of male and female, the limitations of these traditional icons have become increasingly apparent.

One of the most common solutions that has emerged is the use of male, female pictograms placed side by side with a dividing line between them. While this approach attempts to acknowledge the existence of more than one gender, it still falls short of being truly inclusive. By maintaining the binary distinction, it inadvertently reinforces the idea that gender is limited to just two categories, leaving out those who do not identify strictly as male or female. This approach, while a step in the right direction, does not fully embrace the diversity of gender identities that exist today.

In search of more innovative solutions, some institutions have taken bold steps to reimagine restroom signage altogether. A notable example is The Photographers' Gallery in London, which took the traditional stick figure and turned it on its head. They created a series of playful and diverse icons for their restrooms, each one unique and reflective of the gallery's welcoming and inclusive ethos. This approach not only challenges the conventional norms of restroom signage but also celebrates gender diversity in a way that is both creative and thought-provoking.

One approach that we have explored in our own projects is to create a design language that centers on the facilities themselves rather than focusing on the user's gender. This means using icons that represent the function of the restroom (e.g. a toilet, sink, or hand dryer) rather than the gender of the user. This approach has the advantage of being inherently inclusive, as it removes the need to categorise users by gender altogether. However, it also comes with its own set of challenges. These unique pictograms, while full of potential, have yet to be widely adopted in the universal wayfinding systems that people encounter on a daily basis. As a result, they can create uncertainty or hesitation, particularly in environments where familiarity and clarity are paramount.

The question of whether to stick with traditional stick figures or to twist toward a new direction in wayfinding design is not one with a simple answer. The best solution often varies depending on the specific context of each project. In some cases, the familiarity and clarity of stick figures may still be the most effective choice, particularly in environments where quick recognition is essential. In other cases, more innovative and inclusive designs may be appropriate, especially in settings where there is a strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion.

One thing is certain, however: the movement toward gender-neutral wayfinding is here to stay. As society's understanding of gender continues to evolve, so too must the design solutions that we employ in public spaces. This is not just a matter of keeping up with trends, but a fundamental responsibility of designers to create environments that are welcoming and accessible to all.

Words by
Ollie Heald
Designer

Stick or Twist? Navigating the Future of Gender-Neutral Wayfinding