A Danish start-up has developed a device promoting the reappropriation of the public arena by the fairer sex. Lapee is the first urinal reserved solely for women.
All equal in cities?
Gender inequality has increasing resonance within the public debate. However, numerous sociologists believe that the public space itself serves as a breeding ground for this phenomenon. Though urinals have existed since ancient times, they are still largely designed for the male populations. However, the average time women have spent waiting to use public conveniences is actually nine times greater than that for men.
For more inclusive cities
Lapee is synonymous with the eradication of endless queues to use the facilities. Using 3D printing, Gina Périer has created a plastic structure that is fully recycled and adapted for women. Its proportions and architecture make it a safe and reassuring space. The structure enables the integration of a 1,100-litre water tank, which enables more than 350 uses before it needs changing. Equally, it is a system that can be rolled out in various spaces. Lapee runs without electricity and is stackable to make it easily transportable. The device has already been used at numerous festivals across Denmark and beyond. Today, Lapee is used in 10 countries including France, with a marketplace that is constantly expanding.
