The question of whether we should install armrests on outdoor benches specifically to prevent people from lying down touches on complex issues of urban design, public space management, and social equity. While the straightforward answer is yes, adding armrests or dividers does physically restrict the bench's length, making it uncomfortable or impossible to lie down, the underlying motivations and consequences deserve deeper consideration.
Proponents of this design approach, often called "hostile architecture" or "defensive design," argue that it serves legitimate purposes. It can discourage long-term occupation of benches, potentially reducing loitering, vandalism, and the presence of homeless individuals sleeping in public view. The goal for many municipalities and businesses is to ensure benches are used for their primary function—sitting—and to maintain a certain aesthetic and order in public spaces.
However, this practice is ethically contentious. Critics rightly point out that it targets vulnerable populations, namely people experiencing homelessness. Instead of addressing the root causes of homelessness—such as lack of affordable housing and support services—this design solution merely displaces the problem, making life even more difficult for those with nowhere else to go. It raises a fundamental question: who are our public spaces truly for?
From a pure design perspective, armrests are not inherently negative. They provide crucial support for elderly individuals and those with mobility issues, helping them to sit down and stand up safely. The key is intent and implementation. When the primary design goal shifts from accessibility to exclusion, the public realm becomes less welcoming for everyone.
Are there better alternatives? Absolutely. Cities can invest in more dignified solutions, such as providing public restrooms, sheltered sleeping pods, and increased social services. For bench design itself, focusing on comfortable, accessible seating for all users without explicitly hostile features is a more humane approach. The challenge lies in balancing the need for orderly, usable public spaces with compassion and social responsibility. Ultimately, the armrests on a bench are more than just a design feature; they are a reflection of our community's values and priorities.