Final answer:
The space in front of a water closet, lavatory, and bidet should be 8 diameters side-to-side and 15 diameters deep according to newer guidelines. These measurements can vary based on local building codes.
Step-by-step explanation:
In regard to the space requirements in front of a water closet, lavatory, and bidet, building codes generally dictate these measurements to ensure safety and accessibility. While an older "rule of thumb" recommended a space of 5 feet side-to-side and 7-8 feet deep, modern guidelines suggest allowing as much as 8 diameters side-to-side and 15 diameters deep for optimal space. It's important to consult specific local building codes and regulations as they can vary by region and are updated over time to reflect new standards.
Included in your reference indicates an interesting feature of a South African restroom, where a free condom dispenser is provided next to the hand-drying blower. This illustrates cultural differences in public restroom amenities, and while it does not pertain directly to the question regarding space requirements, it adds context to the global variations in restroom design.