Street furniture is an essential element in the development of public spaces in cities. Not only does it offer practical solutions for city dwellers, but it also contributes to the aesthetics of the city. Street furniture trends have evolved considerably in recent years, with the emergence of new technologies and the growing importance given to sustainable development.
Current trends in original street furniture for a unique city: meeting the needs of city dwellers
Street furniture must be designed to meet the needs of city dwellers while offering a pleasant aesthetic. Current trends in street furniture revolve around three main axes:
Sustainability and respect for the environment
New trends in street furniture aim to reduce environmental impact and promote sustainability. The materials used must be recyclable and sustainable, and the designs must be designed to minimize energy consumption. Renewable energies, such as solar energy, are also increasingly used to power equipment.
Multifunctionality
Street furniture must be multifunctional to meet the different needs of city dwellers. Thus, we can see benches equipped with electrical outlets and USB ports for recharging electronic devices, or even information kiosks equipped with Wi-Fi terminals.
Innovative design
Urban furniture is increasingly considered as a design element. Innovative concepts are becoming more and more common, with futuristic designs and original shapes. Sculptures and art installations are also used to improve the aesthetics of public space.
How to integrate new trends in original street furniture for a unique city into your public space?
To integrate new trends in street furniture, it is important to take into account several factors:
The needs of city dwellers
Street furniture must above all meet the needs of city dwellers. Equipment must be chosen according to the specific needs of the population and the intended use.
The budget
The integration of new street furniture equipment must be planned according to the allocated budget. Eco-friendly and multifunctional solutions may be more expensive to purchase, but they can save money in the long run.
Space planning
The equipment must be integrated in such a way as not to obstruct circulation and to improve the ergonomics of the public space. It is important to consider the surface area, population density and intended use of each piece of equipment.
New trends in street furniture for a unique city
In a constantly evolving world, street furniture trends are no exception. Today, cities seek to create unique and functional public spaces, integrating innovative and sustainable design elements. Here are some of the new street furniture trends to consider for your public space.
1. The use of sustainable and ecological materials
Sustainability and respect for the environment are major concerns in the design of modern urban furniture. Recyclable and sustainable materials, such as FSC-certified wood, recycled metal and plant-based plastics, are increasingly used. These materials help reduce the carbon footprint and extend the lifespan of equipment.
2. The integration of solar energy
Solar energy is a renewable energy source that is gaining popularity in street furniture design. Solar benches with built-in solar panels can provide electricity to charge electronic devices and illuminate public spaces at night. The use of solar energy helps reduce energy consumption and promote sustainable development.
3. Modularity and flexibility
Modular street furniture offers great flexibility in the design of public spaces. Modular elements can be combined in different ways to create configurations adapted to the changing needs of city dwellers. Modular benches, modular planters and modular tables allow you to create versatile and scalable spaces.
4. Technology integration
Technology plays an increasingly important role in the design of street furniture. Wi-Fi hotspots, electrical outlets and USB ports are integrated into benches and bus shelters to meet the needs of connected city dwellers. Interactive information displays can also be used to provide information on public transport, local events and city services.
5. Urban art and art installations
Street furniture is increasingly considered as an art form in its own right. Sculptures, art installations and murals are used to beautify public spaces and create a unique atmosphere. These artistic elements bring an aesthetic and cultural dimension to the urban environment.
6. Plant development
The integration of plant design into urban furniture is an increasingly popular trend. Planters and green spaces are used to beautify public spaces and create a more pleasant atmosphere. The benches can be equipped with integrated planters, allowing city dwellers to enjoy the greenery while resting. Plant walls, for their part, bring a touch of nature to often mineralized spaces.
Planting also has environmental benefits. Plants help purify the air by absorbing carbon dioxide and emitting oxygen. They also play a role in regulating temperature, by creating shaded areas and reducing the urban heat island effect. In addition, plant development promotes biodiversity by providing habitat for pollinating insects and birds.
7. Accessibility for all
Accessibility is a key criterion in the design of modern urban furniture. Accessibility standards must be respected to allow all city dwellers, regardless of their physical abilities, to fully benefit from public spaces. Benches must be adapted for people with reduced mobility, with ergonomic armrests and backrests. Assistive devices, such as ramps and handrails, must also be integrated to facilitate movement for people with disabilities.
8. Safety and prevention of acts of vandalism
Safety is a major concern in the design of street furniture. Equipment must be designed to prevent acts of vandalism and guarantee the safety of city dwellers. The materials used must be impact and weather resistant, while being aesthetically pleasing. Security devices, such as surveillance cameras and security lighting, can also be integrated to deter acts of vandalism and ensure peace and quiet.
9. The use of artificial intelligence
Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly used in the design of street furniture to improve the experience of city dwellers. Smart sensors can be integrated into benches, trash cans and floor lamps to detect the presence of people and automatically adjust the lighting or comfort level. The data collected by these sensors can also be used to optimize the management of public spaces, by adapting the opening hours of equipment according to crowds.
10. Soft mobility
Soft mobility, such as cycling and walking, is gaining popularity in cities. Urban furniture must therefore be adapted to encourage these environmentally friendly modes of travel. Bicycle racks and electric vehicle charging stations can be integrated into public spaces to facilitate the use of these modes of transport. Rest areas and water points can also be provided for pedestrians, to make their travels more pleasant.
