The annual internet competition for America's Best Restroom is finished, and the winner is . . . the Hermitage Hotel in Nashville, Tennessee. View the results at www.bestrestroom.com. The winning restroom features an Art Deco theme, leaded glass tiles, a terrazzo floor, and a shoeshine station. The runners-up featured extravagances such as skyline views, custom mirrors and woodwork, silver accent pieces, vintage photos, hand-painted tiles, and etched glass . . . to the extreme of one-way mirrors above a urinal, and sink mirrors embedded with LCD eyes.

Sponsored by Cintas, a provider of restroom supplies and services, this quirky event rewards the former with PR, entertains the public, and generates awareness of exemplary restrooms. “The important message is that restroom hygiene matters - for good health and good business," said Kirk Kirssin, Cintas Director of Marketing. Cintas created the “Best Restroom Award” to honor businesses that combine good hygiene with functionality and exceptional style. The contest has attracted tens of thousands of votes since its inception in 2002. The bottom line: "When you walk into an exceptional restroom, you know it. The cleanliness, the style, the amenities – it’s unexpected, but certainly appreciated. It tells you that the organization that created this inviting atmosphere must really care about you."

In the years that I have been watching (and voting), America's Best Restroom nominees have evolved from endearing Mom 'n Pop shops that went the extra mile with their amenities and decor . . . to over-the-top facilities that are out-of-budget for the average business. I liked it better before; nevertheless, it's always interesting to see what's out there—and which restroom the public selects. But for a wealth of inspirational ideas that are attainable for the average small business, be sure to browse the past nominees and winners in the site's ABR Hall of Fame.