A sleek, silver, spaceship-like design has won a competition to replace the JCdecaux public toilets of San Francisco. The futuristic, multi-purpose facility by Smithgroup JJR is literally growing with green-technology as plants and benches wrap around the bottom of its reflective body, while a living garden bathes in the sun on the rooftop.

“The design blends sculpture with technology in a way that conceptually and literally reflects San Francisco’s unique neighbourhoods,” explained Smithgroup JJR design principal, Bill Katz. “Together, the varied kiosks and public toilets will tell a sustainability story through water re-use and native landscapes.”

“Smithgroup JJR’s design is forward-thinking, combining natural elements and environmental sustainability with modern technology and materials,” said public works director, Mohammed Nuru. “This 21st-century street furniture reflects our San Francisco values, as we invest in a public realm designed with dignity, inclusivity and beauty.”

The redesign of San Francisco’s JCdecaux public toilets and kiosks was held as an invitation-only competition by public works. The entries were narrowed down to three finalists by a jury in April 2018, before ultimately selecting Smithgroup JJR’s design as the winner.