Yes, there are park benches specifically designed to be uncomfortable to prevent sleeping. This practice is a well-known example of "hostile architecture" or "defensive design." It involves strategically modifying public spaces to discourage certain activities, like lying down or sleeping, often targeting homeless individuals.
Common features include individual armrests dividing the bench into single seats, making it impossible to lie down. Some benches have slanted seats, convex surfaces, or even small metal studs. Others are unusually short or have awkward, segmented shapes.
Proponents argue these designs maintain order, prevent loitering, and ensure benches are available for their primary purpose: sitting briefly. They claim it reduces vandalism and makes public spaces feel safer for all users.
However, critics strongly condemn the practice as inhumane and discriminatory. They argue it criminalizes homelessness by making basic rest impossible, instead of addressing root causes like housing shortages. This design philosophy makes public spaces less comfortable for everyone, including the elderly, pregnant women, or anyone needing a longer rest.
The debate raises deep ethical questions about who public spaces are for and how cities manage social issues. While uncomfortable benches exist, many communities are now rejecting hostile architecture in favor of more inclusive, compassionate urban design solutions.