That's an excellent and very practical question! When you see rows of benches in a city park, plaza, or transit station, it's natural to wonder how they are secured. The answer is: it depends entirely on the design intent, location, and security requirements. Most commonly, you will encounter both types.
Individual, Freestanding Benches are very popular. These are single, complete units anchored independently to the ground, usually with concrete footings or heavy-duty brackets bolted into a paved surface. This approach offers maximum flexibility for layout changes. Planners can space them apart, group them, or reposition them as needed. Many iconic, designer benches are individual pieces meant to be appreciated as standalone street furniture.
Benches that are Chained or Linked Together are also widespread, particularly in high-traffic or secure areas. Here, multiple bench seats share a common, elongated frame or are physically connected by their underpinning structure. The primary reasons for this are security and durability. A single, long unit anchored at multiple points is immensely difficult to steal or vandalize. It also prevents the benches from being tipped over easily. You'll often see this style in subway platforms, bus stations, and public plazas where heavy use and safety are top concerns.
Sometimes, the "chained" look is more subtle. Individual bench frames might be bolted onto a continuous, pre-installed rail or concrete base, creating a unified row while allowing for potential future reconfiguration.
So, to summarize: If you need flexibility and aesthetic design, individual units are the choice. If your priority is permanent, vandal-resistant installation in a fixed location, chained or continuous units are the standard solution. Next time you're out in the city, take a closer look—you'll start to notice which type surrounds you!