If you’ve ever stepped into a public restroom, you may have noticed a curious feature: the bottom of the stall doors doesn’t touch the floor. While it may initially seem unusual—or even awkward—this design choice is intentional. Architects and facility designers consider multiple factors when constructing public restrooms, and the gap beneath stall doors serves a variety of functional purposes. Far from being an oversight, it is a carefully calculated balance between privacy, safety, hygiene, and practicality.
Safety Considerations
One of the primary reasons for leaving a gap under restroom doors is safety. Public facilities can occasionally host emergencies, from medical crises to accidental falls. The open space beneath stall doors allows staff, security personnel, or first responders to quickly determine whether someone inside requires help without having to immediately unlock or force open the door.
In situations where a user might be incapacitated or distressed, the gap also provides a point of contact for communication. Items such as water, a phone, or a small first-aid item can be passed through the opening to assist until full access is possible. By reducing the time it takes to identify and respond to a problem, this small design feature can prevent more serious consequences and, in rare cases, even save lives.
