Innovative Transparent Composting Toilet Design by Nico Goebel in Spain

Architectural ingenuity meets sustainability in Nico Goebel’s latest creation, The Goodviewloo. This is an outdoor shower and composting toilet located on a former livestock farm in Cantabria, Spain.

This eco-conscious structure is thoughtfully designed to serve construction workers and visitors during the conversion of a barn into a residential building. Blending cost-effective building methods with contemporary aesthetics, The Goodviewloo is a testament to the possibilities of self-built architecture and minimal environmental impact.

Embracing Simplicity in Design and Materials

The Goodviewloo was developed with a focus on using simple, readily available materials. Goebel and his friends built the 3-by-2-metre structure using plywood and polycarbonate. These materials keep costs low and allow for an easy assembly process.

The resulting compact design includes two key functional zones: a walk-in shower and a composting toilet that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valley through a circular portal window.

A Unique Take on Weather Protection

One standout feature of The Goodviewloo is its innovative use of polycarbonate panels. These panels curve seamlessly around the timber frame, creating an elegant yet functional weatherproof barrier.

By eliminating traditional roof-to-wall transitions, Goebel showcases an unconventional approach to craftsmanship. This highlights the structural beauty of the materials while ensuring practicality. This design philosophy merges rugged functionality with artistic expression, all while simplifying the construction process.

Positioning for Nature and Practicality

Perched on a secluded slope, The Goodviewloo is strategically designed to adapt to the challenging topography of the site. Anchored by secure metal pile foundations that account for the steep incline, the structure rests on a stone base that doubles as integrated steps for accessibility.

Standing 3.8 metres tall at the front and tapering to 2.8 metres in the rear, The Goodviewloo harmonizes with its environment while offering a visually striking silhouette.

Sustainable Water Solutions

Water usage for the outdoor shower is a prime example of Goebel’s commitment to sustainable practices. The water is sourced from a nearby stream and heated using a gas-powered heater, reducing environmental strain and energy consumption.

This practical yet eco-friendly solution makes The Goodviewloo a perfect model for remote, off-grid locations where resource conservation is crucial.

Redefining Self-Building with a Collaborative Spirit

Above all, The Goodviewloo reflects Nico Goebel’s playful and pragmatic attitude toward architecture. The project doubles as an experiment in self-building with friends, swapping the conventional construction crew for a collaborative and creative hands-on approach.

By using readily available materials and techniques, Goebel demonstrates how elegant, functional design need not be exclusive or out of reach.

A Glimpse Into Goebel’s Design Philosophy

The principles underpinning The Goodviewloo extend beyond this single project to Goebel’s broader design practice, which encompasses furniture, lighting, and interior design.

Known for embracing interplays between functionality and artistry, Goebel’s work continually challenges conventional norms. The Goodviewloo is no exception, offering not just a practical facility, but also a piece of architecture that communicates respect for nature, budget-conscious innovation, and collaborative creativity.

What We Can Learn from The Goodviewloo

The Goodviewloo offers a multitude of lessons for architects, designers, and DIY enthusiasts alike:

• Resourceful Material Use: It illustrates how cost-effective, widely available materials like plywood and polycarbonate can yield compelling, professional-grade results.
• Climate Conscious Design: Its water system and material choice underscore the importance of minimizing environmental impacts in even the smallest builds.
• Site-Specific Solutions: Navigating steep slopes with thoughtful engineering ensures durability and stability. Stone bases and secure metal pile foundations are examples of this.
• Collaborative Building: Goebel’s team-oriented process provides a reminder of the value of creativity and camaraderie in construction projects.

Nico Goebel’s The Goodviewloo proves that even modest architectural projects can present profound opportunities to innovate and inspire. By blending utility with design, and embracing sustainability, The Goodviewloo showcases the boundless potential of small-scale, self-built architecture.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Nico Goebel designs transparent composting toilet with a view in Spain