Yes—curved urban benches are absolutely an option, and I would actually encourage one for a plaza setting. A curved bench often makes a stronger visual statement than a standard straight park bench, and it can soften hard architectural lines while guiding the way people move through the space.
When choosing a curved design, think about how the bench will sit in the plaza. A crescent or quarter-circle bench works well for framing a plaza edge, tree planter, or public art. An S-curve or serpentine bench is ideal for larger open spaces because it offers both inward-facing and outward-facing seating, which helps people feel comfortable whether they want to socialize or simply people-watch. A full circular bench around a planter can act as a focal point and provide generous seating capacity.
Material choice matters a great deal. Powder-coated steel frames hold up well in urban settings and allow for gentle radius bends. FSC-certified hardwood slats, such as Ipe or thermally modified ash, add warmth and make the seating surface more comfortable in hot or cold weather. Concrete and glass fiber reinforced concrete are excellent for custom-radius pieces, but they require professional installation. Recycled plastic lumber is another low-maintenance option if sustainability is a priority.
It is also important to specify the right radius and length. A tighter radius creates a more intimate seating area, while a wider radius feels more open and monumental. For a typical plaza, I usually recommend a radius of 6 to 10 feet for a single curved bench section, and modular curved sections can be connected to form longer arcs or waves. Check with the manufacturer about whether the benches are freestanding, surface-mounted, or require embedded footings, because plaza substrates, drainage slopes, and accessibility clearances all affect installation.
If accessibility is part of the brief, pair curved benches with straight or L-shaped companion seating nearby. Curved benches can meet ADA requirements, but curved seat depth and clear floor space around them need attention. Adding armrests or intermediate dividers can also improve comfort and usability for a wider range of people.
For a modern plaza, I would look at collections with clean lines, hidden mounting systems, and a durable finish. A curved steel bench with timber slats in a charcoal or bronze powder-coat finish tends to photograph well and stays visually quiet. If the plaza has a more playful character, a curved concrete ribbon bench or a bold color can become a landmark seating element.
In short, you are not limited to straight park benches. Curved urban benches are one of the best ways to make a plaza feel designed rather than simply furnished. Choose the right radius, material, and mounting style, and the bench will work both as seating and as a piece of public-space architecture. If you share the plaza dimensions, a site plan, or photos of the surrounding architecture, I can suggest a specific radius, material, and mounting detail that will suit the space.