Design Name: Note

Designer: Bulent Unal

City furniture often goes unnoticed in our daily lives, lacking any memorable message or impact. However, what if these benches could become a medium for creative expression and communication? Bulent Unal's "Note" bench aims to transform ordinary benches into memorable experiences that people would want to capture and share on social media.

Uniquely designed for open public spaces, the "Note" bench features rotating covers that can be personalized with text or patterns. The top surface of the bench consists of a grid of 7x27 circles, providing ample space for people to leave notes, draw figures, and express their feelings, even if only temporarily.

Constructed from stainless steel, the bench is durable and suitable for outdoor use. The rotating covers, placed within the grid, can be easily painted in different colors, creating a visually striking contrast. The use of electrostatic paint ensures longevity and resistance to weathering.

The "Note" bench stands 45 cm above the ground, with a sitting area measuring 150 cm x 50 cm. A total of 189 rotating covers are placed on the bench, arranged in 7 rows and 27 columns. This design allows for individual customization and interaction, as users can rotate the covers to design their own messages or visuals.

Aside from its functional purpose as a seating area, the "Note" bench encourages socialization and adds a touch of creativity to the urban landscape. Rainwater does not accumulate on the bench, thanks to the freely rotating covers. Even after rainfall, the random patterns formed by the covers can change the color texture of the surrounding area, creating a dynamic and ever-changing visual experience.

The idea for the "Note" bench originated in September 2019 and was completed in December 2020. Extensive research was conducted on the role of urban furniture in facilitating socialization and enhancing daily life experiences. The aim was to create a design that not only provides functionality but also contributes to the communication environment of a city.

Overcoming the challenge of creating a bench that goes beyond mere seating, the "Note" bench adds a touch of creativity to public spaces. It allows individuals to leave their mark, express themselves, and create memorable scenes. By breaking the monotony of the urban landscape, this design aims to make daily differences and foster a sense of connection among city dwellers.

The "Note" bench has been recognized for its ingenuity and creativity, receiving the Bronze A' Design Award in the Street and City Furniture Design category in 2021. This prestigious award celebrates designs that demonstrate technical and creative excellence, contributing to quality of life improvements and making the world a better place.