Yes, absolutely—adding a center armrest to a standard outdoor bench is one of the most practical and humane ways to discourage people from sleeping on it. It’s a common solution used by cities, parks, and even business owners who want to keep benches functional for sitting while preventing overnight sleeping.
The idea is simple: install a fixed armrest right in the middle of the bench, splitting the seating area into two distinct, smaller spaces. This makes it physically uncomfortable—often impossible—for a person to lie down flat. Unlike sharp spikes or slanted surfaces, a center armrest doesn’t injure or harm; it just redefines the bench’s purpose as a seat for two.
From a DIY perspective, you can add a center armrest to almost any standard wooden or metal bench. You’ll need a pre-made or custom armrest (often made of treated wood, powder-coated steel, or heavy-duty plastic), a drill with appropriate bits, stainless steel bolts, and a wrench. First, measure the exact center of the bench seat. Mark the spot, then drill matching holes through the armrest base and the bench slats. Secure the armrest with bolts and lock washers from underneath to prevent tampering. If you want it to look polished, paint the armrest to match the bench color.
Of course, there are a few things to consider. First, check local regulations: some cities have strict rules about altering public furniture. Second, think about material durability—outdoor armrests should be weather-resistant, UV-stable, and strong enough to withstand occasional rough use. Third, keep in mind that a center armrest may reduce the bench’s seating capacity by one person, but it dramatically increases usable seat space for those who actually want to sit upright.
In short, adding a center armrest is a clever, low-cost, and ethical approach to solving the problem without creating hostility. It’s widely used in transit stations, shopping centers, and public parks. So yes, you can definitely do it—and it works.