This project is an outdoor bench set designed in collaboration with manufacturing partner Oregon Corrections Enterprises for Blue River Park meant to bring life back to Oregon communities in the aftermath of the Holiday Farm Fire in 2020. My partner Alexandra Buckles and I designed a tiered seating solution for spectating community activity in the park. Situated near the various sports courts around the park, the bench is comprised of two layers creating a place to observe your surroundings with others.
The varying heights of 18.25” and 25.25”, make it accessible for kids and adults alike to sit comfortably. The bench is made from 11 gauge sheet steel and finished with a blue powder coat to provide protection and visual interest. Each bench is made of four main parts: two body pieces and two side supports. The body pieces are attached to the side supports using tamper resistant screws. The benches are secured into the ground using concrete anchors. This hardware allows for a permanent installation that inspires a new chapter of community.
This project was chosen to represent the University of Oregon's product design program at the 2022 WantedDesign Online International Schools Show and has since been prototyped by OCE for potential production plans.
