This was an entry for the Bench Competition in Winnipeg, Canada. The design is composed of 2 "Seating Objects', bridged/connected by a raised ‘Link’, that take the shape of a leaf resting on a 3”H Base/Ground/Plinth/Stage raised above the ground denoting the 4’ x 20’ prescribed site from the competition brief. The 'Fillet' surrounding the bottom of the 'Seating Objects' accentuates the morphing of the ground plane into the 'Seating Objects' as if they grew out of the earth as 'Leaves'. These two 'Leaves' plus the 'Plinth' made up one single 'Bench'. Users and Passersby can approach the Bench from any directions on the Streets/the Public Realm. This grouping of 2 'Seating Objects/Leaves' on a 'Stage/Plinth' as a 'Bench' just off the Street Edge facilitates conversations/dialogues/interactions between the Users/Actors animating the street life in a public space.

The Users/Actors can sit comfortably around the edge of the larger Seating Object in a leaf shape that maximize the ‘Communal Sitting’ capacity of more than 10 persons when needed. Whereas a single person or a child can sit or lie down to read a book on the smaller and lower 'Leaf' with a small inclined surface like a lounge chair.

Contouring Technique on the Rhino Base Model in 1/2” Plywood Sheets is used for the fabrication/building of the Bench/Composition to minimize costs and as a way to realize the shape/form of the Bench as a whole as well as a pragmatic way of addressing the issues of outdoor use that exposes the Bench to the elements of rain and snow. The half inch gap between the plywood panels allows for the rainwater to dissipate quickly without accumulating on the sitting surface as well as for ease of cleaning and maintenance simply by watering the bench clean with a water hose. The raised Platform/Plinth with the gap in between plywood sheets will drain away any water and elevates the ground plane for the use of the bench from puddles of water that might otherwise accumulate to become problems/annoyances to use the bench in absence of elevated surface free of water from the ground. This Contouring Technique cutting parallel to the long edge of the Rhino Base Model but angular to the 2 Seating Objects/Leaves resulted in plywood panels with 'Lines/Edges' that evoke 'Motion' hence the project title: Earth Bench in Motion.

Natural Wood Varnishes will be used to protect the Marine Grade Teak Plywood Panels from the elements as well as giving the Bench a smooth and less abrasive surface for uses. Glow in the Dark paint will be used for the 'Stars + Stripes' that project the night sky onto the bench metaphorically as well as for the aesthetics and visibility of the bench at night.

For further details of the project please reach us at info@llclolcll.com.