RESTROOMS

In most PraiseBuildings, the construction of restrooms is as important as the construction of kitchen or audio/visual center and is nearly as expensive. On average, PraiseBuilding restrooms need to be replaced every twenty years, so it is important to spend some money here to get the most out of every fixture.

Use the highest quality materials the budget will allow to withstand years of abuse. There is a difference between high quality fixtures and designer fixtures. Since restrooms will be used and abused, it is important for architect or building committee to specify high quality sinks, faucets, toilets, urinals and dividing partitions

Over the last several years, many congregations have decided to make their restrooms more than the utilitarian spaces they once were. Today, restrooms may feature baby-changing stations, lounge areas, changing areas with showers and even decorative artwork and lighting.It is important that restrooms are built to area building codes.

Depending upon the space constraints of the PraiseBuilding, it may not be possible to make each restroom ADA (American’s with Disabilities Act) compliant. The law requires that an ADA compliant restroom is easily accessible to persons with handicaps.

Many buildings have found that by constructing a separate unisex restroom with a single toilet and sink that meets the ADA requirements, solves the problem and is less expensive than constructing each restroom to meet current ADA requirements.

By Stephen Ferrandi, Director, KLNB Regious Properties

Stephen Ferrandi is the Director of KLNB Religious Properties, a real estate firm serving religioius clients in Maryland, D.C., Pennsylvania, and Virginia. He is one of the top experts in land development in the region. Mr. Ferrandi frequently contributes real estate related articles to both print and online publications.