TEMPERATE CLIMATE

Concept design for New York, USA

The cold, sunny days of the temperate climate does not provide inviting conditions for outdoor seating. To enhance the appeal of public space during cooler seasons, this innovative piece of urban furniture acts as a heat collector. Crafted from stainless-steel pipes, the design cleverly utilises the material as both a solar collector and a conduit to heat water circulating through the surface of the seat, offering comfortable seating year-round. Designed as either a large piece of urban furniture facilitating different modes of reclining with its surface topography, or a smaller more traditional sized bench, to accommodate various public spaces.

Constructed entirely of metal pipes, the bench is designed to make the most of the materiality. The pipes making up the surface of the seat act as a solar heat collector and a conduit heating the water circulating through them. Enclosed circulation, aided by a pump, ensures efficient heating. The bench is situated for optimal solar absorption, using the water as a thermal mass to sustain heat and maintain a warm seat.