UNSW Graduate Project

‘GutterSeat’

Research and Discovery

Defining The Problem

Developing The Solution

Delivering the Outcome

Town Hall’s existing seating is antisocial, awkward, and inappropriate for the location and the user.

Key Findings:

It was outward facing, placed on zero perimeters, making users feel a lack of psychological ease while using, also did not maximise the space.
Awkwardly shaped, strange angles, e.g. did not serve the user, the seat was too long and angled upward too sharply.
People used defensive body-language when approaching it. Not a singular Red Bench allows the user to feel Secure.

Implications from Findings:

Short term use, nobody sits there long
Facilitates Psychological comfort, and Autonomy
Design seating to cater to the vulnerability of the ‘Red Seats’

Research and Discovery

Defining The Problem

Location - Defining the Problem

Location of new seating is this kerb that is located around the perimeter of Town Hall Square, as many people sit on it, or the steps.

Also seen is the large gap between the benches and a space to walk behind them, which makes people feel unsafe, in my opinion, furthermore the long bench and steep angle causing a feeling of entrapment.

Client
GutterSeat, UNSW

Year
2024

Early Exploration

Initial Sketches - Developing Form

Very beginning, sketches to find idea,.
Sketches - Early Ideation

Introduction of Kerb-like idea, exploring form. possible features.
Form

Early exploration of shape, required features, uses etc.
Form Development

Inclusion of the kerb, primary feature.
Development of ‘Perch’ design.
Form - Finalised

Finalisation of desired shape including the kerb, using the parameters from research.