That's an excellent question that gets to the heart of thoughtful urban design. The answer isn't a simple yes or no. Whether armrests are a standard feature or an add-on depends heavily on the bench's intended location, primary purpose, and compliance with local regulations.
In many public spaces, especially those governed by accessibility codes like the ADA in the United States, armrests are often a standard and non-negotiable feature on a portion of the installed benches. They are crucial for elderly individuals and people with mobility challenges, providing necessary support for sitting down and standing up. In transit areas, armrests also help define individual seating space and can subtly discourage lying down, maintaining the bench's function for seated users.
However, for purely recreational benches in parks or scenic overlooks, the approach is more flexible. Here, armrests might be considered an optional add-on or a specific model choice. Designers may opt for armless benches to encourage a more social, flexible seating arrangement or to achieve a cleaner aesthetic look. The decision balances comfort, inclusivity, maintenance, and the desired public behavior.
Ultimately, for a specific project, the specification sheet is key. "Standard" models may come with fixed armrests, while many manufacturers offer armrests as a configurable option—allowing urban planners to choose based on the exact needs of the site. So, while not universal, armrests are a critical design element that is increasingly standard where dignity, safety, and accessibility are priorities.