It's a common challenge for many cities and property managers: how to provide comfortable public seating while preventing it from being used as a sleeping surface. The good news is that several thoughtful design approaches address this issue without resorting to overtly hostile architecture that makes sitting unpleasant for everyone.
The key is creating seating that supports brief rest but discourages prolonged lying down. One effective method is incorporating subtle dividers or armrests between seating positions. These don't reduce comfort for someone sitting properly but make stretching out horizontally nearly impossible. Another approach involves slightly angled or curved seating surfaces. A gentle downward slope or convex curve feels fine for a 15-20 minute sit but becomes increasingly uncomfortable for sleeping, naturally encouraging people to move along.
Many municipalities are now opting for segmented benches with individual seats or distinct, separated sections. These maintain full comfort for the back and legs while eliminating the continuous flat surface needed for sleeping. Materials also play a role; using slightly textured surfaces or materials that cool quickly outdoors can deter prolonged occupation without affecting short-term comfort.
The most successful designs consider all users. A bench might feature a central armrest that doubles as a small table, or have back supports placed at strategic intervals. These elements serve legitimate functions for sitters while passively preventing lying down. The goal isn't to punish or exclude but to ensure public furniture serves its primary purpose—providing respectful, temporary seating for the entire community. With careful design, it's entirely possible to create welcoming spaces that naturally regulate their use through thoughtful geometry and human-centered features.