Absolutely, I can help with that! Selecting benches that naturally discourage skateboarding is a common concern for property managers, parks departments, and business owners. It's about integrating subtle design features that make the benches impractical for skating without making them uncomfortable or unattractive for sitting.
The key is to focus on the bench's surfaces and profile. Traditional skateboarding tricks require smooth, continuous edges and flat surfaces. You can disrupt this by choosing benches with seats that have a slight curvature or a rounded profile. A gently rounded seat edge, rather than a sharp 90-degree angle, eliminates the "ledge" that skaters seek. Materials also play a role. While metal can be slippery, certain textured powder coatings or perforated metal seats provide grip for sitting but are unsuitable for board slides.
Another highly effective method is the strategic addition of discreet skate deterrents. These are small, metal or polycarbonate attachments fixed along the bench's edge. Common types include "skate stoppers" or "copings." They protrude just enough to interrupt a skateboard's wheels or trucks. For a more integrated look, consider benches with built-in armrests or central dividers. These break up the long, continuous sitting surface, making it impossible to grind or slide along the entire length.
Placement and installation are equally important. Securely anchoring the bench to a concrete foundation is crucial. Furthermore, consider the surrounding area. Installing benches away from smooth, paved plazas or in spots with landscaping or uneven ground nearby reduces their appeal as part of a skating "line."
The goal is not to create hostile architecture that punishes everyone, but to specify durable, comfortable seating that passively resists misuse. By opting for benches with rounded edges, broken planes, and optionally, discreet deterrent hardware, you protect your investment and reduce maintenance costs while keeping public spaces welcoming for their intended use: rest and relaxation.