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    Urban design is all about balance. Spaces should be functional and beautiful, hard wearing and accessible to all, welcoming and modular. The pivotal notion here is that these urban spaces are for absolutely everyone to use. But what if one person’s use is considered abuse by someone else?

    The idea of hostile design features is an odd one. We think of design as a friendly and inclusive practice. Hostility is an active stance towards a person or a group of people. So, what does hostile design look like?

    In the case of urban spaces, hostile design is intended to discourage people from engaging in a specific activity or from using the space at all. While the intentions behind such designs may stem from specific  concerns, they often result in environments that are unwelcoming to all. Take armrests as an example. They’re great for the elderly and those needing a little more support as they sit. However, when these are placed at very frequent intervals to prevent the homeless from sleeping on a bench, the intent shifts from assistive to hostile. As stewards of public spaces, our industry ought to take a more considered approach that can address these concerns while fostering inclusivity and community wellbeing.

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    Inclusive and universal design

    Consider the humble park bench. A simple armrest, while providing crucial support for some, can also prevent a person without a roof over their heads from finding a safe place to rest. Removing all armrests is not the solution because there are those who need the added support. The solution is to thoughtfully incorporate both options. Modular designs allow for benches with armrests in strategic locations, creating a system that gives support where it is needed while leaving space between armrests for a person to lie down.

    Similarly, the vibrant culture of skateboarding presents an interesting challenge. While it’s true that skateboarding can wear down certain surfaces, it also brings life and energy to urban spaces. Rather than installing anti-skate devices, perhaps we could explore materials and designs that can withstand skateboarding, or even incorporate dedicated areas for this activity within our public spaces.

    furnitubesblog-hostilefurniture-accessibility

    Beyond function: creating welcoming spaces

    Truly inclusive urban design transcends functionality. It’s about creating spaces that draw people in and encourage positive interactions. This might involve:

    • Incorporating a mix of seating options to suit different needs and group sizes
    • Balancing sun and shade to create comfortable microclimates
    • Including elements like public art or water features to spark conversation and create points of interest
    • Ensuring accessibility for people with diverse mobility needs

    By focusing on these elements, we can create public realms that are not just used, but truly lived in and loved by all members of the community.

    Stop, think, design.

    Features intended to discourage the homeless from using a public piece of furniture are a result of losing sight of the social impact of public places. We often refer to urban outdoor spaces as a public living room. While most of us can choose to use their own living room, public spaces might be the only option for those without a home.

    As designers and manufacturers of urban furniture, we have a responsibility to consider the needs of all potential users. This doesn’t mean compromising on aesthetics or durability, but rather expanding our notion of what makes a space successful. Universality of design takes more time and consideration but it does result in spaces that meet the needs of everyone who makes use of them.

    We’re committed to ongoing dialogue with landscape architects, urban planners, and communities to continually refine our approach. By rejecting hostile design in favour of thoughtful, inclusive solutions, we can create urban environments that truly serve and uplift everyone who uses them.

    After all, the measure of a welcoming city isn’t just in its grand architecture or efficient infrastructure, but in the small, everyday spaces where people can comfortably gather, rest, and feel at home in their community.