As we plan our escape room business, we are considering all aspects of the facility. One of the most overlooked areas are the restrooms.
As we traveled the U.S. playing at many escape room companies, we rarely saw themed restrooms, but when we did it was great. And it’s one of those areas we want to put some attention towards.
We are going to be looking for new ways to enchant our guests, and the restroom feels like an unexpected canvas for creativity and storytelling.
The Benefits of Theming a Restroom
Before we do anything, we ask ourselves what the benefits are. Theming restrooms is no exception.
- Enhanced Immersion: A themed restroom extends the fantasy world of an escape room business, especially if it is themed after one of the games. When guests step into a restroom that reflects the game’s theme, the magic continues (or begins), keeping them engaged and excited.
- Memorable Experiences: Unique and well-executed themes leave a lasting impression. Guests are more likely to remember their experience and share it with others, which can lead to increased word-of-mouth referrals.
- Increased Satisfaction: Attention to detail, including in the restrooms, shows that you value your guests’ entire experience. This thoughtfulness can lead to higher satisfaction rates and repeat visits.
- Instagrammable Moments: A creatively themed restroom can become an unexpected photo op for guests, providing free marketing as they share their pictures and tag your business on social media.
Suggested Themes and Inspirations
While we plan to theme our restrooms after our games, we thought these themes would lend themselves to some very cool-looking restrooms if we wanted to keep the themes separate. (The AI-generated images below give good examples and can be used for inspiration.)
Wild West: Imagine a restroom decked out with wood slats, wanted posters, and wood trim. The images below show an over-the-top version and something much more subtle.
.
Space Station: For a sci-fi-themed room, think of a restroom designed like the interior of a spaceship, complete with futuristic gadgets and glowing panels.
Pirate’s Cove: A restroom that feels like the inside of a pirate ship, with wooden barrel sinks and ropes, complements a nautical adventure. Below are two versions, the second being more subtle.
.
Enchanted Forest: Incorporate elements of nature, fairy lights, and ethereal sounds to create a magical restroom that goes well with a fantasy-themed room.
Tips and Tricks for Creating Themed Restrooms
- Maintain Functionality: While aesthetics are crucial, never compromise on the functionality and hygiene of the restroom. Ensure all elements are clean and in good working order.
- Use Durable Materials: Choose materials that can withstand frequent use and are easy to clean. The theme shouldn’t lower the restroom’s quality or hygiene standards.
- Subtle Theming: If a full-blown theme isn’t feasible, consider subtle touches like themed signage, handles, or mirror frames that hint at the room’s theme.
- Safety First: Ensure all design elements are safe and comply with regulations. Avoid anything that might be confusing or cause accidents.
- Music and Sounds: Elevate the ambiance with music or sounds. A private-themed restroom might have sea shanties playing or it could just be the sound of waves and seagulls.
The way I see it, themed restrooms in escape room businesses offer a unique opportunity to enhance the overall experience, create lasting memories, and differentiate our business. By paying attention to this often-neglected space, we can unlock new levels of immersion and satisfaction, ensuring that our guests’ adventure is truly unforgettable from start to finish.
