by Aditi Athreya & Lokesh Vairakannu
New year, new toilets. Never thought we’d ever say (or write) this like, ever. But when does life ever give you what you expect? This time, it’s a good kind of unexpected. There they are, standing their ground at the very end of the canteen, sandwiched between the library and the bookshop. As we returned from our not-so-restful holidays, we were greeted by these luxurious lavatories. The gleam of the granite walls strikes your eyes as you step into the brightly lit room. But what do our peers think? Let’s hear from some of them!
“Honestly, I’d go there even if I didn’t need to go, if you get my drift. The new toilets look like they’re straight out of a five-star hotel,” quipped a student who wished to remain anonymous.
One could never have put it better. While the beautiful black granite of the Gents makes you feel like you’re lost in a magical portal, the green granite in the Ladies reminds one of quaint ancient castles (we’re saying this in the best way possible) – it gives one the feeling of staring into the soul of their reflection in a pond of emeralds (Wizard of Oz reference? Maybe?).
In both bathrooms, a mysterious scent lingers in the air – fruity? soapy? Specifically, strawberries? No one can tell. All we can say is that it smells good – the best compliment a toilet can get. Whatever it is, one thing’s for sure – it’s definitely a step up from the usual bathroom smell, and we’re here for it!
Another thing that contributed to these toilets’ royal elegance was the switch from faded-plastic wall-mounted soap dispensers to those metal straw-like pump ones, ones which one would normally find in the restrooms of an acclaimed theatre (or a 5-star hotel as many students have astutely pointed out).
Now is a better time than any other for a (cue trumpet fanfare) Tall Person Perspective™.
“I absolutely adore the new toilets! Finally, my head does not peek out over the top of the cubicle. They’ve remembered that tall people exist! They made the doors higher! I don’t have to bend down at awkward angles when changing frantically into my PE uniform anymore. Oh joy!”- student of height >180cm.
That leads us to our next topic of debate. You would remember that the staff toilets on the concourse were refurbished back in June(ish)? Those were the talk of last year, but what do you think? Could these new toilets take them in a fight? Comment down below with what you think!
“If this is just the start of Reimagining Campus 2026, imagine what’s coming next! I kinda don’t want to graduate anymore” – group of Year 6 students.
Perfectly understandable Year 6s, we certainly cannot wait to see what’s in store for us when we come back to the brand-new NUS High campus in a couple of years.
On that note, here’s a friendly (not cringe) reminder to keep the toilets clean! Watch out, as we have become acclimatised to having such clean toilets, so you will definitely have hoards of people clutching rakes and brooms (and knives?) hunting you down if it is known that you are the culprit for dirtying or damaging these prized potties. Let’s remind ourselves about the unspoken (though we do think it’s been mentioned) code of conduct when it comes to using these toilets. It’s like a sacred pact among students and staff – you do what you have to do, you flush, you wash your hands, and you leave the place better than you found it. It’s not rocket science, but you’d be surprised how many folks neglect the basics. So, consider this a gentle nudge to be a responsible restroom user and keep the toilets in tip-top shape for the next person in line.
And let’s not forget the real MVPs (Most Valuable Players) in this whole toilet saga – the janitorial staff. I mean, think about it – they’re the ones who keep these toilets sparkling clean day in and day out, no questions asked. They deserve a round of applause for their hard work and dedication, don’t you think? So, here’s to the unsung heroes behind the scenes – you rock! Now there, this will be a lot more wholesome if you go greet them and thank them face to face next time. We know STAR (Staff-Teacher-Appreciation) day is yet due but everyday can be STAR Day too!
In the end, who would’ve thought we’d be sitting here, chatting about toilets? It’s not exactly the most glamorous topic, but hey, when something (as terrific as these toilets) comes along, you just got to give credit where it’s due. Home to all things amazing from the magical vibes to the fruity scents and the tall-friendly cubicles, these toilets have managed to turn a mundane necessity into something worth talking about. So, again, here’s to the unexpected, pleasant surprises and the little joys in life – even if they happen to be found in the most unexpected places, like the school restroom!
One final note: do look out for more of such magnificent restrooms coming soon to theatres near you, near the hall and at the other end of the canteen! We can’t wait and maybe we’ll write about it someday. For now, enjoy and remember to do your part in keeping them clean!
This is an excerpt from our Afterhours newsletter! Do remember to check that out too ❤
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