Design urban furniture in Madrid
The bench starts from a plot based on isosceles triangles, this makes it possible to repeat and combine them with other pieces. In Madrid there are streets and squares with very different spatial conditions, therefore the module has been designed to work both in isolation and in multiple combinations that cover the space infinitely. Regarding materiality, it has been decisive to think about the bank in terms of durability, weather and vandalism. This is why a molded water-repellent reinforced concrete, polished granite white color is chosen for the seat and a matt stainless steel structure lacquered in crimson color for the supports. Both materials require minimal maintenance.
The bench section has been molded for good ergonomic condition. The seat tilts in slightly to lift the legs, and the backrest tilts down a few degrees for back comfort. In addition, the concrete edges that come into contact with the user's body are rounded. The manufacturing process is thought of in two distinct parts. On the one hand, the manufacture of the eight-centimeter-thick concrete seat, which is built with a formwork, being able to put some pieces together. On the other hand, the tubular stainless steel structure is divided into three groups of equal parts, thus having a minimum of different parts. The installation of the bench in the urban landscape of Madrid is intended to simply support itself. This would require calculating the weight of this part and testing for a tipping hazard. In such a case, it would be easy to install it using five bolts, one at each vertex of the pentagon formed by the steel bars in contact with the ground. The configuration of the bank fosters relationships between people. The base piece can accommodate up to four people in two different body positions: two sitting in the low seat and two in the booster seat. The two low seats are designed for interaction but also face opposite sides in case a bit of privacy is required.
