For the Community by the Community – Hand Washing Station

A Functional, Culturally Embedded Response to a Global Crisis

The FCBC (For the Community, By the Community) Hand Washing Station was conceived as a community-driven response to the urgent need for public sanitation during the COVID-19 pandemic. Designed to provide accessible, hands-free hygiene, the station represents a fusion of social impact, thoughtful design, and cultural awareness. Beyond its functional role, FCBC stands as a symbol of collective care and resilience, highlighting how design can serve communities in empathetic ways.

As part of the next iteration of the design, I was responsible for designing a tissue dispenser, enhancing the station’s usability and accessibility. This addition ensured a seamless and hygienic way for users to dry their hands, improving the overall experience while maintaining the project’s ethos of community-first innovation. My approach focused on creating a durable, intuitive, and visually cohesive component that integrated seamlessly into the existing structure.

This project reflects my broader design philosophy—creating impactful, human-centred solutions that merge utility with cultural significance.

The FCBC Hand Washing Station’s acquisition by the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) solidifies its place in design history as an example of socially responsive, purpose-driven innovation. MoMA’s recognition affirms that public health infrastructure, when approached with cultural sensitivity and intelligent design, can transcend function to become a lasting symbol of community resilience. Read more here.

FCBC is located on MoMA, Floor 3, 3 North, The Philip Johnson Galleries. 

Credits: Dr. Mambi Madzivire, Samson Ojetad, Dennis Osadebe, Fatai Adisa, Kofi, Kadara Enyeasi & Nifemi Marcus-Bello

Full project: https://nmbello.com/FCBC

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