Yellowave Brighton - WCs

Yellowave Beach Sports Venue and Cafe has been right on Brighton beach since 2007.  I  always knew it was a special business, but through being more involved, helping with this project, I've realised they are quietly and modestly making pretty huge efforts to be conscious in their business. You can read more on that here.

Yellowave are on the B Corp certification journey, so it was important that my design not only reflected that in ways the visitors would notice, as well as actual ways that would support their Impact Assessment. Instead of replacing the sanitaryware - we kept it and worked around it, updating the WCs decoratively and using the door and rear wall to convey the values of the business.

After many years of managing with their municipal-looking WCs it was time to show them some love and inject some Yellowave personality. The team were great to work with including Wave Plumbing & Bathrooms. We reused the flooring, WCs, hand dryers and lighting - and added some reclaimed timber, accessories and graphics to convey the ethics of this carbon neutral business - which they are very quiet about.

We love a bit of storytelling don't we! Even the backs of the WC doors were cheered up too - thanks to Yellowave's graphic designer Paul Nelson and Recreative Signs. WCs don't have to look so sad! Now the WCs go much better aesthetically with the beautiful cafe area by Chalk Architecture and are joyful and welcoming.

It's fantastic to see Yellowave win the lease for another site in Hove, repurposing a 1930's toilet block to become their next beach sports clubhouse. I can't wait to see how this lovely business evolves 🏐🏜️✨☀️

Project steps:

• Briefing and site visit
• Interior design concept
• Design development and sourcing