Have you ever noticed benches in public spaces that seem almost impossible to sleep on? This is often intentional. Many cities and property managers use specific designs to prevent people from lying down and sleeping on outdoor benches, primarily to maintain public order and ensure benches are available for sitting.
The most common approach involves installing bench dividers. These are individual armrests placed at regular intervals along the bench. While they provide a comfortable armrest for seated users, their primary function is to create physical barriers that make it impossible to lie down flat. These dividers can be made of the same material as the bench, like wood or metal, and are a permanent part of the design.
Beyond simple armrests, more overt designs exist. Some benches feature center armrests or even multiple, tall dividers that segment the seating area into single-person spaces. Other designs include slightly slanted seats, which are comfortable for short-term sitting but become uncomfortable and unstable for lying down. In more extreme cases, you might see benches with strategic bumps, bars, or even small metal spikes on the surface.
This practice is part of a broader architectural strategy often called "hostile architecture" or "defensive design." Its goal is to discourage unwanted behaviors, such as loitering or sleeping, through built-environment features. While effective for their intended purpose, these designs are controversial. Critics argue they unfairly target homeless populations and create less welcoming public spaces for everyone.
Are there alternatives? Some communities are exploring solutions that address the root causes of public sleeping, such as providing more public restrooms, shelters, and designated rest areas, instead of relying solely on punitive design. The choice between using dividers and seeking alternative solutions remains a complex issue for urban planners and communities worldwide.