Absolutely! It is not only possible but a fantastic and growing trend in urban design to have benches that seamlessly combine seating with planters. These innovative pieces of furniture, often called planter benches or integrated bench planters, are a brilliant solution for modern cities and community spaces.
They work by integrating one or more planting containers directly into the bench's structure. You might see a long bench with planters at either end, or a design where the backrest is essentially a tall, narrow planter box. The materials range from durable, rot-resistant woods like cedar or ipe to powder-coated metals and recycled plastics, all chosen to withstand the outdoors.
The benefits are numerous. First, they add much-needed greenery to concrete-heavy urban environments, improving air quality and beautifying streetscapes. The plants provide a natural, soft barrier that can gently define spaces without feeling imposing. For the person sitting, it creates a more pleasant, shaded, and psychologically restorative experience compared to a standard bench. From a practical standpoint, the integrated planter protects the plants from damage and vice-versa, creating a cohesive, low-maintenance unit.
You can find these hybrids in public parks, along busy sidewalks, in plazas, and in private gardens. They are a perfect example of "placemaking" – turning a simple seating area into an inviting destination. So, if you're looking for a way to sit down and enjoy a touch of nature simultaneously, a planter bench is the ideal and entirely feasible choice.