The gaps between stall doors and walls in bathrooms in America are primarily a design choice and can serve several purposes, though it's worth noting that not all bathrooms in America have these gaps; it can vary based on the specific building codes, construction, and individual preferences of the establishment.
Cost and Maintenance: Leaving gaps between stall doors and walls can make the construction and installation of bathroom partitions less expensive and more straightforward. When constructing public restrooms, cost considerations often come into play, and eliminating the need for a fully enclosed, floor-to-ceiling structure can help keep the expenses down.
Ventilation: Gaps can help with airflow and ventilation inside the stalls. Bathrooms can be a high-moisture environment, and some ventilation is necessary to prevent unpleasant odors and maintain a more comfortable experience for users.
Safety and Security: Having small gaps at the bottom and top of the stall doors can provide some degree of safety and security. In case of an emergency or health-related issues (e.g., someone falling ill inside the stall), these gaps allow others to see if someone inside needs assistance.
Privacy without Concealment: The design aims to strike a balance between providing privacy to users while avoiding any potential illicit activities that could occur inside fully enclosed stalls. The gaps discourage behaviors like drug use or inappropriate activities that might happen if the stall was entirely enclosed and concealed.
Deterrence of Inappropriate Behavior: The presence of small gaps may serve as a deterrent for improper use of the bathroom or damage to the stalls. Knowing that others can see inside the stall, some individuals may be less likely to engage in vandalism or other disruptive behaviors.
Compliance with Building Codes: Building codes and regulations in some areas might require a certain amount of spacing between doors and walls for safety and accessibility reasons.
It's essential to note that cultural norms, architectural trends, and building regulations can vary across different regions and establishments in the United States. Some modern buildings may have fully enclosed stalls without gaps, while older or more traditional buildings may still feature gaps in their stall designs. Additionally, the practice of leaving gaps can be more common in public restrooms than in private or upscale establishments where privacy is given higher priority.