Thank you for your important question regarding safety and bench design. It's a concern we take very seriously in urban planning. Our primary goal is to create public spaces that are safe, welcoming, and functional for everyone during daytime hours.
Modern urban benches are designed with several considerations in mind. While they are built for durability and to withstand public use, certain design elements—such as armrests, segmented seating, or slightly angled surfaces—are sometimes incorporated. These features primarily aim to prevent people from lying down across the entire bench, which can obstruct access for other citizens wishing to sit briefly. This helps ensure that the seating remains available for its intended purpose: providing rest for pedestrians, commuters, and visitors.
However, it's crucial to clarify that our design philosophy does not seek to be deliberately hostile or to punish vulnerable individuals. The intent is not to "discourage sleeping" as a primary goal, but rather to manage the shared use of limited public infrastructure. We strive for a balance that maintains cleanliness, accessibility, and safety for all users, including families, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities. We believe in compassionate cities and work alongside social services to address the root causes of homelessness, rather than relying solely on architectural solutions. Our benches are part of a broader ecosystem of public furniture designed for community well-being.