SoMad is moving into a new building in 2027, and instead of filling our bathrooms with basic fixtures, fluorescent lighting and forgettable tile, we're inviting artists to transform each one into something entirely their own — a permanent, site-specific environment that will inspire occupants for decades to come.
We want spaces with a real point of view, that are weird, funny, lush, disorienting, tender. We crave rooms that surprise you, delight you, make you linger or laugh, further your perception. After all, the time we spend in the bathroom is ubiquitous and capable of creating a moment for each of us, alone and unhurried, to have a privately profound experience.
SoMad is especially interested in concepts that are an extension of your existing practice. Whether you already work in the realm of image-making, sculpture, installation or something more abstract, we want to know how your ideas become a room.
You don't need to make something that looks like a bathroom. You just need to make something that works as one. Bold, strange and unexpected proposals are all encouraged. Functional and maintainable are essentials. No prior bathroom design experience is required.
Open to: artists, designers, architects, and interdisciplinary creatives. NYC-based or able to be onsite for key project phases preferred.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Before you begin: This application has 9 sections and takes approximately 45–60 minutes to complete thoughtfully. We recommend gathering the following before you start:
- A PDF of your visual proposal (sketches, renderings, references, or mood board) — named with your last name and the project title, e.g. Ruiz_WigsForDays.pdf
- A rough sense of your budget and any specialty materials or collaborators you'd involve
- 300–500 words on your concept, either drafted in advance or ready to write
You can submit a draft and return to edit your responses any time before the deadline using the link sent to your email after your first submission. All edits must be made by November 11, 2026 at 11:59pm ET.
Here's what we'll ask about:
- About You
- Availability & Bathroom Preference
- Your Practice
- Conceptual Core
- Visual Proposal
- Materials & Installation
- Budget
- Maintenance & Durability
- Anything Else
KEY PARAMETERS & FAQ
What is flexible? Almost everything visible is open to artistic interpretation: wall surfaces, ceiling treatments, custom fixtures, lighting design, mirror systems, floor treatments, and sensory elements (sound, scent, etc.). We want your vision. Some elements may require adjustment during the design development phase to meet code, waterproofing, or construction requirements — we'll work through those collaboratively with you.
What is fixed? Plumbing locations, overall layout footprint, ADA compliance requirements, ventilation systems, door locations, light switch and outlet locations, and grab bars (in ADA bathrooms) are fixed and cannot be altered. In ADA-designated bathrooms, fixture heights and locations must remain as specified. All designs are subject to review by SoMad's architect and must comply with NYC Building Code, ADA standards, and applicable fire and life-safety requirements.
What are the material guidelines? We encourage creativity with materials, and we will share a full materials FAQ with selected applicants during the design development phase. For your proposal, please be aware of the following general parameters:
• All materials in wet zones (near sinks, toilets and showers) must be moisture-resistant and non-pourus
• Flooring must be slip-resistant; recommended types include porcelain tile, ceramic tile, and vinyl
• Avoid materials that are extremely fragile, porous, or difficult to clean — these spaces are in daily use
• Ceiling-mounted elements or structurally suspended elements require pre-approval and will be evaluated for structural feasibility
• Any elements requiring electrical power beyond standard supply or internet connectivity will be evaluated separately
• If you have questions about a specific material, note it in your proposal and we'll follow up
What will SoMad provide selected applicants?
- Full access to floor plans and site documentation
- Coordination with the architect and general contractors
- Installation support (labor, tools, and fabrication assistance)
- Documentation
- Standard construction work is covered by the general contractors, including: rough plumbing, installation of plumbing fixtures, waterproofing, rough electrical, standard light fixture and outlet installation, floor tile installation, and basic drywall. Your budget should account only for specialty work beyond standard construction scope.
What is the budget? Total project budgets range from $5,000 to $25,000 depending on the scope and nature of the proposal. Your artist fee is approximately 30–40% of your total project budget (minimum $2,500). We're looking for proposals that are realistic about what they actually cost — your budget should reflect your concept. Final budgets are developed collaboratively during the design development phase, and finalized for construction. Any costs beyond the approved budget require SoMad's prior written approval.
What is the timeline?
• Open Call Launch: September 16, 2026
• Submission Deadline: November 11, 2026 at 11:59pm ET
• Finalist Interviews: Late November – January 2027
• Selection Announced: By January 22, 2027
• Design Development Phase: Winter / Spring 2027– exact dates tbd
• Construction Documents: Spring 2027– exact dates tbd
• Installation Window: Spring / Summer 2027 – exact dates tbd
• Completion: October, 2027– exact date tbd
Will there be interviews? Shortlisted finalists will be invited to a brief Zoom or in-person conversation with the SoMad team. This is an opportunity for us to learn more about your proposal, talk through concept and feasibility, and get a sense of how we might work together. Interviews are typically 20–30 minutes. We will reach out to schedule.
For any questions, please email hello@somad.nyc
