CREJ - Property Management Quarterly - January 2017
In the built environment, buildings and projects are trending toward mixed use, where different combinations of land uses and activities come together to create dynamic synergies. Within the realm of mixed use, public spaces are incredibly important and, within that space, seating becomes a critical component. The most popular form of public seating typically is benches. Truth be known, there are plenty of other seating options as well as a plethora of seating enhancements that should be given consideration to meet a variety of seating needs. • Benches. Benches that offer uniqueness, a secondary function or a design element give mixed-use public spaces an inviting perspective not once achievable. For example, art benches are functional benches with an artistic twist. They are suitable as signature or statement pieces for public spaces, and they can be fun, whimsical or just weird. You can think of this seating as a way to establish a brand or create a backdrop for photo opportunities. In addition, pattern and logo benches are gaining in popularity. Companies are opting to customize benches with logos or site-specific designs, which can be used on a series of benches, chairs, tables and planters within an area. Benches with light-emitting diode lighting elements are starting to appear as a standard feature, with some models utilizing translucent materials and internal lighting. Other models incorporate the LED lighting into the bench seats, backs or support systems. And then there are benches with duel functions, such as combining bike racks and benches to provide public seating and bike parking. Planter benches perform double duty as decorative and functional seating elements. And circular benches are used as precast seat walls, landscape borders or as landmark destinations. These benches help position art, plants or other decorative elements into open spaces. Prefabricated seat walls are available in circular, linear and organic models with straight, rounded or curved ends. Single- or dual-seat depths make them very versatile in public spaces. Optional elements like wood seats, decorative arms and unique backs created upscale versions of standard models. Some seat walls offer inside and outside steps to create circular play or viewing areas while others offer seating on both sides of the circle. In private or public areas with limited space, small benches are an excellent option. These small benches reduce the amount of space needed to provide public seating. Available in a variety of shapes, sizes and materials, look for small benches to become a standard feature in public spaces. • Nontraditional seating. Moving past the traditional idea of benches for public seating, we’re seeing some new seating trends. Adirondack chairs, which usually are confined to decks and patios, are bringing variety to public spaces. They come in many seating options, including deck chairs, high chairs, sun loungers and benches, and often they are available in an explosion of single and multiple colors to announce their presence. Sun loungers, which usually are associated with deck, pool and patio areas, are beginning to appear in nonpool public spaces like public plazas, street parklets and parks. They encourage users to relax and refresh while checking their email or taking a break from their daily routine. Likewise, low chairs embrace the design of standard side and armchairs but in a relaxed lounge version. This design works well on decks, plazas and other areas to encourage users to hang out. Bollards are traditionally used as barriers and barricades to prohibit vehicles from entering public spaces, but are being recognized as an ideal seating elements. If the bollards are the proper diameter and seat height, they become a natural seat for people watching whatever is unfolding around them. Although somewhat rare in public spaces, hanging benches, chairs and rockers have moved from one’s porch into public spaces. Their appeal is universal and they attract a wide range of users in a variety of age groups. Hanging seats can naturally enhance one’s public experience. In the past, stationary public chairs were the norm. However, portable and moveable folding chairs are now incredibly popular. They provide users with options related to function, placement and density. Many of these models are available in metal, plastic and wood, and can be used both indoors and outdoors. Casual seating that is small, lightweight and easily moveable can function as both short-term seating and side tables. Folding chairs are ideal for sidewalk cafes and coffee and ice cream shops as well as decks and patios. Stack chairs are popular in the office environment, however their outdoor brethren are staple of outdoor cafés and restaurants. These lightweight seating options require less storage, increase flexibility and can introduce splashes of color into dull environments. So when considering seating for mixed-use public spaces there are far more options available than the standard two- or three-seat bench. Embrace a mix of public seating options and turn dead space into vibrant public seating places.