Inside the World’s Greatest Bathroom Stall

Working remotely, I spend a lot of time in coffee shops, and I’ve seen the inside of dozens of coffee shop bathrooms. Today I think I found bathroom nirvana.

Walk up an unassuming staircase inside of Power Coffee Works, a steampunk-themed coffee shop in Jerusalem, Israel. Just open the bathroom door, and you’ll come across a true destination toilet.

The first thing you notice when you walk into this bathroom are the walls. The walls are lined with chalboard, filled with cute little messages from bathroomers-past. Along the wall hangs a small red bucket filled with chalk for you to add your own missives.

Approach the toilet, and you’ll find several fun, toilet-themed posters. They at once add to the ambience, and set the rules of engagement for the facility.

On the bottom of the seat is another missive: “Put me down,” politely reminding guests to lower the seat when done.

Near the toilet, but not crowding it, sits a toilet-paper holder with rolls of plush TP. There’s no supply anxiety when you walk in this restroom.

The seat faces the sink, but in place of the usual mirror is a brightly lit affirmation: “You look amazing.” You know — I did look amazing:)

Speaking of lighting, the whole facility is brightly lit by two carefully placed exposed bulbs. This light is amplified and balanced by a ceiling composed of a mosaic mirror shards, large enough to distribute the light, but too small to fret over your appearance.

For the charging-inclined, there is an outlet to the left of the toilet, and another to the right of the sink. For those who plan to stay a while, there is a little poddy library of books underneath the sink.

This isn’t an ultra-premium restroom. It’s not large, or filled with expensive toiletries and marble & golden fixtures. It’s a collection of affordable materials arranged perfectly to meet the needs of the user, and that is why I appreciate it deeply.

You may be wondering, “Why do you care so much about this bathroom?”

Well, with just a small investment the owners of Power took an experience that’s usually forgettable at best (and very often negative).

This company turned a simple “going to the bathroom” into an experience. By this relatively small effort they reinforce their brand, and provide their customers with a positive experience.

Power’s bathroom is one I will remember fondly, and I don’t say that about many bathrooms. In fact, I have never written about a bathroom before. Have you ever waxed philosophical about — a bathroom?

How will you make your business memorable?

I know, the tone of this is a bit tongue-in-cheek — but it really is a remarkable bathroom. And yes, their coffee is great too.