Challenge

Benchmark was approached to create a bespoke L-shaped seat for the entranceway to Portland Crescent, a new student accommodation building in Leeds. The 312-room building offers students high-quality living with a number of luxury facilities not seen in most high-rise buildings of this type. Students can enjoy a roof terrace, floor-to-ceiling windows, coffee lounge and a number of other attractions.

A small public realm space had been created with planting positioned to screen off the road. With this in mind the Landscape Architects drew up a seat to follow these new planting beds.

Solution

Benchmark produced 3D renders to show the client how it intended to manufacture the street furniture, along with options that could be produced to offer better value.

With this particular site the company had to overcome a 300mm change in level, so this had to be engineered in to the design.

Overall what looks like a simple and sophisticated item of street furniture has a hidden level of complexity within the sub structure. With the majority of fixings hidden and no plugs used, this bench will stand the test of time, as well as offering easy maintenance, should it be required.