URBAN BENCHES

Addressing concerns about loitering and sleeping on public benches is a complex issue in urban design. While public spaces should be welcoming for all, specific problems sometimes necessitate specialized solutions. Several bench designs aim to discourage prolonged sleeping while still providing seating for legitimate users. A common approach involves segmented or divided benches with individual seats separated by armrests. These armrests, often made of metal, prevent a person from lying down across the entire bench. Another design incorporates slight, uncomfortable angles or convex curves on the bench surface, making it unsuitable for extended rest. Some municipalities install benches with a central bar or planter in the middle, physically breaking up the sleeping surface. Materials also play a role; cold, metallic surfaces are less inviting for sleeping compared to warmer wood, especially in cooler weather. This practice is part of a broader trend known as "hostile architecture" or "defensive design," which uses elements of the built environment to guide or restrict behavior. The ethical debate around such designs is significant. Critics argue they unfairly target homeless populations and create an exclusionary public realm. Proponents suggest they are necessary to maintain order, safety, and the intended use of public spaces for brief respite. The challenge for cities is to balance the needs of all citizens, ensuring public furniture is used as intended without completely dehumanizing vulnerable individuals.