Ledge Seating
Changing Hostile Architecture Seating in Public Spaces to be More Inclusive
Project
Ledge Seating
Main role
Designer
Materials
3D modeling on Fusion360
Potential:
Bamboo / Wood / Stone / Recycled Plastic
Date
7/23/2026
Public seating in contemporary urban environments is increasingly designed to discourage prolonged use. Slanted surfaces, curved profiles, and "leaning benches" prioritize turnover and control over comfort, often as a response to concerns around loitering or public sleeping. While effective in regulating use, these interventions unintentionally create accessibility barriers for a wide range of users, including seniors, pregnant individuals, people with chronic pain or disabilities, and anyone in need of rest while carrying belongings through public space.
This project proposes a geometric bench system designed to support inclusive, adaptable use in public environments such as malls, schools, and playgrounds. The form integrates varied seating conditions that accommodate upright sitting, foot elevation, and designated surfaces for personal belongings. By acknowledging real user behaviors rather than restricting them, the design enhances comfort, accessibility, and shared usability without compromising spatial efficiency.