Arisa Bench: Sculptural Urban Seating for Social Connection

Innovative design by Pedro Fernandez Cortina fosters interaction in public spaces

The Arisa bench stands as a testament to the evolving role of street furniture in contemporary urban design. Drawing inspiration from the harmonious proportions of the golden ratio, this piece introduces varying heights that encourage a range of interactions—children are drawn to climb and play, teenagers find a natural gathering spot, and adults discover a comfortable place to rest and converse. More than a functional object, Arisa is conceived as a sculptural element, seamlessly blending into city landscapes while fostering a sense of community.

Crafted from Rokam, a recycled concrete material, Arisa exemplifies both durability and elegance. Pedro Fernandez Cortina’s approach merges aesthetics with utility, resulting in a bench that not only withstands the demands of public use but also elevates the visual appeal of its surroundings. The modular design ensures adaptability, allowing for diverse configurations that suit a variety of urban and architectural contexts.

Arisa’s unique properties stem from its innovative use of lightweight, cultured stone. By integrating stone material into the concrete mix, the bench achieves a balance between strength and reduced weight, enabling the creation of organic forms and intricate geometries. This flexibility in design supports the bench’s multifunctional purpose, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor environments.

Interaction is at the heart of Arisa’s design philosophy. Its curved silhouette invites users to engage naturally, promoting conversation and shared experiences. The bench’s modularity allows for creative arrangements, transforming public spaces into dynamic meeting points. Research underpinning the project identified a gap in the Mexican market for urban furniture that encourages social interaction, leading to a solution that is accessible, comfortable, and inclusive for all age groups.

The development of Arisa was not without challenges. Achieving the desired organic form while maintaining the integrity of lightweight concrete required overcoming significant technical hurdles. The design process involved extensive prototyping, 3D modeling, and material experimentation to ensure both structural resilience and aesthetic appeal. The result is a piece that redefines urban seating, offering a harmonious blend of art, architecture, and innovation.

Launched at the Mextropoli festival in Mexico City in 2024 and recognized with the Silver A' Street and City Furniture Design Award in 2025, Arisa has set a new standard for multifunctional, sustainable urban furniture. Its presence in public spaces not only enhances the environment but also encourages meaningful social interaction, embodying the transformative power of thoughtful design.