🧐 If you like placing permanent “one-person benches” randomly in spaces between buildings, come to the front of the class!
We have something to learn from people!
❌ While aesthetically beautiful benches may look appealing, placing them randomly often fails to add social value to communities. As Jan Gehl wrote in his book, people prefer to sit at edges with a view toward the center.
❤️️ After many observations and community workshops, the majority of people prefer benches that:
-Are movable (so they can be shifted away from the sun or harsh weather)
-Can be connected with other benches (for parties, picnics, or large family/friend gatherings)
-Have space for wheelchairs or baby strollers
-Are colorful and inviting
-Are designed not just for one person, but for people to sit together
💡 It’s time to rethink our bench designs. We’re smarter than just placing aesthetically beautiful benches randomly. Let’s take it to the next level and create beautiful, functional benches that bring people together!
Can We Just Give People a Normal Bench?
Mustafa Sherif 