Yes, there are several thoughtful bench options designed to encourage social distancing in public and private outdoor spaces. Whether you're a park planner, a business owner, or just someone setting up a backyard gathering, these solutions can help maintain safe spacing while still allowing people to sit and relax.
First, consider the spaced individual seats. Instead of traditional continuous benches, many manufacturers now offer modular seating units that are placed at least six feet apart. These look like standalone chairs or small stools anchored to a base, making it clear where people should sit. They work well in plazas and along walking paths.
Another popular option is the partitioned bench. These are standard-style benches but with physical dividers (often made of wood, metal, or clear acrylic) installed between each seating spot. The dividers create separate "zones," preventing direct side-by-side contact while still allowing multiple people to share the same structure. Some even have built-in armrests that double as spacers.
For a more natural approach, curved or zigzag benches can guide social distancing. A long, wavy bench with distinct sections encourages people to sit at the bends rather than close together. You'll also find circular "campfire" benches where each seat faces outward, ensuring personal space.
Finally, don't overlook simple layout changes. Even with a regular bench, you can place it in a larger area and add visible markings on the ground (stickers or painted circles) to show where to sit. Pair this with signs reminding users to leave an empty space between themselves and others.
In short, the market offers everything from high-design partitions to low-cost spacing hacks. The key is choosing a bench that fits your space and communicates safety clearly without compromising comfort.