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Over the past decade, America’s locker rooms have undergone somewhat of an “extreme makeover.” Facility managers are realizing that enhancing the look and functionality of locker rooms means improving over-all user satisfaction, as well as achieving cost-savings for the building.

An attractive and well-maintained locker room can speak volumes to those who use the facility, whether it is hospital staff, students, or visitors. For example, colleges know that their sports facilities and locker rooms can influence students’ decisions when choosing among several schools. Student athletes are keenly aware of locker room environments – the cleanliness, privacy, functionality and condition can all affect the total athletic program experience.

For reasons including employee morale and retention, clean, professional-looking and high-quality locker areas that offer all the comforts of home can be just what the doctor ordered.

Likewise, hospital staff generally view locker areas as their “home away from home” and consider these common areas an important retreat during hectic workdays. For reasons including employee morale and retention, clean, professional-looking and high-quality locker areas that offer all the comforts of home can be just what the doctor ordered.

Fortunately for facility managers, there are cost-effective strategies that meet users’ discriminating expectations on aesthetics and functionality. In fact, the innovative technology, design and materials used in today’s locker rooms makes upgrading these facilities a wise financial decision – from energy and water conservation to lower maintenance and life-cycle life-cycle costs. The following highlights key trends and applications.

The Age of Plastic Lockers
Gone are the days of smelly, rusted out metal lockers in new locker rooms. Solid plastic lockers are an innovative solution because they are easy to maintain and ideal for humid or wet environments. Long-lasting solid plastic lockers are the next generation in lockers as they never need repainting and will not rust, dent or delaminate.

Maintenance staff can easily wipe away dirt and graffiti with everyday cleaners. Best of all, solid plastic lockers are available in a range of shades beyond dull gray and can be customized to your specifications. Another plus: plastic lockers are better for the environment and are typically made of post-industrial recycled content – some are made entirely of recycled material.

Besides appearance and upkeep of the two materials, there is also a cost difference between plastic and metal lockers. Although plastic lockers have a higher initial cost, over the long run they are much more cost-effective than metal. Solid plastic lockers run about $250 each (including shipping and installation) compared to $110 for metal lockers.

Metal lockers may initially cost $140 less, but calculated over a 20-year lifecycle, the plastic lockers will actually come out to be about $65 less per locker than metal because of painting, door replacement and other maintenance that adds up. Moreover, the typical warranty for metal lockers is one year, compared with 10 to 20 years for plastic lockers.

Space and Style Considerations
Storage needs and space should also be considered when selecting lockers and accessories. Plastic cubby lockers or locker baskets are effective for open storage areas and to organize supplies or sports equipment. For locked storage, there are several space-saving alternatives to the traditional full-height locker. The space under locker benches can be maximized with built-in lockers below for extra storage.

Stacked lockers, such as newer “Z” lockers, are designed to give each opening additional length on one side, allowing more hanging space for jackets and other clothing which helps prevent users’ belongings from getting mashed and wrinkled. The “Z” design offers an efficient way to achieve multi-tiered storage. A range of color options are available for standard and “Z” solid plastic lockers that complement or coordinate with toilet partitions and other accessories.

An important consideration when selecting solid plastic lockers is the total number of lockers needed and the different levels or tiers of lockers that can be combined to meet this need. The type of door is another feature to consider. Mesh locker doors are a popular choice for schools from a safety standpoint, and these open-concept doors also prevent odor build-up inside lockers.

Replacing metal lockers with plastic has another sound benefit that teachers, coaches and hospital staff alike will appreciate: No loud doors slamming.

Creating an Enlightened Space
Beyond the lockers themselves, other design elements such as lighting can help create an inviting locker room atmosphere. Better lighting warms up the space and makes visitors feel more comfortable. Using recessed lights over vanity areas, for example, rather than harsh florescent strip lights can make users feel right at home. Another consideration is energy efficient lamps and automated lighting controls to reduce energy use.

Bringing in natural light or indirect light with skylights or clerestory windows is another option. If adding daylighting in locker rooms, privacy will likely be an issue, so windows should be provided with obscure or opaque glazing. Moisture and humidity, which can cause condensation, could be another concern and upgrading HVAC systems to address these environmental conditions may be necessary.

Smart Flooring Alternatives
Flooring around lockers, shower areas and restrooms should be factored into any possible upgrades. Smelly, mildewed carpeting and cracked cement floors are a turn off and can also pose safety hazards. Many flooring options are available and often the best solution is a combination of materials for different areas.

Carpeting or carpet tiles with antimicrobial properties in locker areas create a softer feel and typically range from $20 to $40 per square yard. Rubber or synthetic sport flooring systems are another alternative, and depending on the type of product, may cost upwards of $10 per square foot. Many “green” options are also available that use recycled content.

Coordinating With Restrooms
One of the easiest and quickest ways to brighten and upgrade restrooms in locker rooms is to introduce a fresh coat of neutral paint. But it also pays to replace old sinks, toilets and urinals with more efficient models to save on water use, paying special attention to ADA compliance for upgrading older facilities.

Removing stained or cracked china lavs and replacing them with solid surface lavatory systems will not only make restrooms more attractive, but also make them more functional. Group hand-washing stations and new multi-height lavatories maximize restroom space and allow users to quickly move in and out of the handwashing area. Built in soap dispensers that drip right into the bowl and infrared sensors ensure water is not left running – these features save money and keep restrooms tidier.

Replacing toilet partitions with new ones that coordinate with contemporary color schemes is another easy fix. Baked enamel partitions are the least expensive option, while stainless steel partitions are on the high end. In between, there is plastic laminate, phenolic and solid plastic. Matching or complementing rest-rooms with new locker materials will give these areas a coordinated and professional feel.

Locker rooms may seem “behind the scenes,” but it is a smart business strategy to give them just as much attention as lobby areas or other “public” spaces. Whether a locker room is undergoing a small or full-fledged renovation, building managers have many cost-effective options to consider. Restroom product manufacturers, architects and other professionals can offer expert guidance to help you find the right solutions for your facility’s needs.

Valerie Bonney is the product manager for Lenox Lockers and Mills Partitions at Bradley Corporation, a leading manufacturer of locker room products, plumbing fixtures, washroom accessories, toilet partitions and emergency fixtures. She can be reached at Bradley Corporation, W142 N9101 Fountain Blvd., Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin 53202-0309. For more information, call 800.BRADLEY or visit their website at: www.bradleycorp.com.

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