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Functional Urban Furniture Design Proposals for the City of Basel

Introduction

Basel is a city rich in historical fabric and modern architectural examples. Urban furniture (benches, litter bins, streetlights, bicycle parking, bus stops, street planters, information boards, etc.), which facilitates the daily lives of city residents, should be compatible with Basel’s architectural and cultural identity. This report presents urban furniture design ideas for use throughout Basel-Stadt, prioritizing functionality while also possessing aesthetic value. The proposals focus on solutions that respect the city’s historical fabric yet meet the demands of modern life. Sustainable material usage, accessibility, weather resistance, and multi-functional features are fundamental to the designs. Current research emphasizes the significant role of urban furniture in shaping the city’s image and enhancing the quality of life for its residents mdpi.com mdpi.com. Accordingly, the design proposals have been developed to be both compatible with Basel’s existing urban aesthetics and to meet users’ practical needs.

Design Principles and Criteria

The main principles to consider when designing urban furniture for the city of Basel are:

Functionality and Usability: The primary purpose of urban furniture is to practically meet the daily needs of users. Every design should be ergonomic, safe, and easy to use for its intended purpose. For example, seating elements should be comfortable and body-friendly; information boards should be clear and functionally organized. Urban furniture should respond to the behaviors and needs of city residents, increasing their satisfaction and sense of belonging to the city mdpi.com.

Aesthetics and Compatibility with Urban Fabric: Designs should respect Basel’s historical architecture and cultural fabric. This means favoring classical style designs, especially in historical areas within the city center, and using more contemporary and minimalist lines in modern areas. Well-designed urban furniture adds visual value to the city while existing “unobtrusively” in harmony with its surroundings. Indeed, successful urban furniture design can bridge historical and modern elements, strengthening the city’s identity mdpi.com mdpi.com. Integrating cultural elements into modern designs supports the city’s historical continuity and can create an emotional connection for users mdpi.com.

Sustainable Material Usage: Long-lasting and environmentally friendly materials should be preferred. Recycled or certified wood, reclaimed metal, recycled plastic composites, or natural stone reduce the environmental footprint and add value to the city through the story of the materials. For example, some common benches in Basel combine durable wood types such as larch or ash with galvanized steel frames architonic.com architonic.com. Such combinations ensure the furniture’s compatibility with the historical environment and its longevity. Durable and sustainable materials should integrate with aesthetics to appeal to the senses of touch and sight mdpi.com.

Durability and Weather Resistance: Designs suitable for Basel’s four-season climate, resistant to rain, snow, UV rays, and temperature changes, are essential. Metal surfaces should have rust-proof coatings or powder coating, and wooden elements should be treated for outdoor use. Resistance to vandalism should also be considered – robust construction and easily replaceable parts ensure long-term cost savings. Indeed, some standard litter bins used in Basel, designed by the famous designer Hannes Wettstein, are known for their high vandalism resistance christen-metallbau.ch. Longevity also aligns with sustainability; robust products reduce the need for frequent replacement, saving resources.

Accessibility and Inclusivity: Urban furniture should be suitable for everyone’s use. Universal design principles should be adopted, considering the needs of different user groups such as individuals with disabilities, the elderly, and children. For example, information boards at bus stops can be in multiple languages with visual and auditory support; benches should have armrests and sufficient seating height to facilitate getting up and sitting down. Wayfinding signs and information boards on pedestrian paths can include Braille and audio information systems where necessary. Lighting elements improve night vision and increase safety, while guide textures on the ground can support the visually impaired. All these elements serve the goal of universal accessibility, increasing the inclusivity of urban spaces mdpi.com.

Multi-functionality and Flexibility: In modern urban life, spaces can be used for multiple purposes; therefore, urban furniture should also be designed to be as multi-functional as possible. When a single element serves multiple purposes, it saves space and increases user interaction. For example, seating units can also be designed as planters, bicycle parking, or benches with tables; lighting poles can integrate information boards or security cameras. Modularity also adds flexibility to designs – units can be added, removed, or reshaped as needed. This approach facilitates quick adaptation to different events and situations when arranging public spaces. For example, seating modules used for a “pocket park” in Basel can allow the area to be reconfigured with different combinations when needed. This multi-functional and modular approach creates creative usage scenarios, offering richer experiences for citizens mdpi.com.

Smart Technology Integration: To meet the needs of contemporary modern life, urban furniture can be supported by smart city technologies. This means, for example, installing “smart benches” that are solar-powered and offer USB charging stations and Wi-Fi interestingengineering.com interestingengineering.com. Similarly, smart litter bins can be equipped with sensors to report fill levels, or smart lighting poles can save energy by detecting movement. When integrating technology, care must be taken to ensure these elements are aesthetically compatible with the urban environment and function reliably. When properly implemented, smart urban furniture offers significant advantages in terms of sustainability (e.g., solar energy use) and ease of use.

In line with the above principles, specific design proposals for various urban furniture categories in Basel are presented below.

Types of Urban Furniture and Recommended Design Ideas

Benches (Seating Elements)

Benches are among the most fundamental urban furniture, providing rest and socialization in public spaces. Bench designs used in Basel should be flexible enough to adapt to both historical city squares and modern streets. Recommendations:

  • Modular and Multi-Purpose Bench Designs: Modular bench systems that can be used in multiple forms can be preferred. For example, Miramondo’s “La Strada” bench series is found in many squares and streets in Basel in different types (bench with backrest, bench without backrest, single seat) gtsm.ch. This series is based on combining wooden slats of different lengths with seven separate side leg profiles, allowing for various seating units such as stools, chairs, classic benches with backrests, or picnic tables architonic.com architonic.com. La Strada benches combine warm-looking wooden (larch or thermal ash) seating surfaces with simple steel frames; this plain and timeless design, without any ornamentation, can fit both historical and modern environments architonic.com. Using modular benches in Basel with a similar approach will allow areas to be easily arranged according to different needs (rest, conversation, picnic, etc.). Additionally, the parts of these benches, joined with security screws, allow for individual replacement of damaged sections, offering ease of maintenance and resistance to vandalism architonic.com.

  • Ergonomic and Accessible Seating: Seating comfort and body ergonomics should be prioritized in bench designs. Especially considering the elderly population and individuals with limited mobility, bench seating height and depth should be designed to ideal measurements, backrests should be at appropriate angles, and armrests should provide support. As emphasized in the La Strada example, the comfort of the seat and back form is particularly important for the elderly architonic.com. Similarly, in Basel’s streets, benches with armrests to facilitate getting up, inclined backrests, and single-seat forms (for those who prefer to sit alone or for social distancing needs) should be considered. Furthermore, choosing wooden or composite seating surfaces that are not too cold in winter or hot in summer will increase user comfort. Appropriate coatings should be used to prevent metal components from overheating in the sun or feeling uncomfortable when touched with bare hands in the cold.

  • Smart and Functional Benches: Smart benches integrating current technology into urban furniture can meet the modern needs of Basel residents. Solar-powered charging benches can generate their own electricity through photovoltaic panels, offering USB ports and wireless charging areas interestingengineering.com. For example, smart benches produced by companies like Kuube include features such as wireless internet (Wi-Fi), phone charging stations, and digital screens, while running entirely on solar energy interestingengineering.com. These types of benches serve as meeting points for parks or campuses in the city center and offer solutions to contemporary problems like urgent charging needs. Additionally, smart benches can measure air quality, temperature, or noise levels with environmental sensors and display them on their screens, thereby increasing citizens’ environmental awareness. From a design perspective, these high-tech benches are recommended to have a simple and elegant form, possibly integrated with natural materials like wood, to fit Basel’s aesthetic. Indeed, existing examples show that these smart benches are produced with materials such as recycled aluminum bodies, tempered glass, and natural wood seating surfaces interestingengineering.com – proving that technology and naturalness can be offered together.

  • Bench Arrangements that Increase Social Interaction: In Basel’s public spaces, especially along the Rhine River or in city squares, the placement of benches can be arranged to encourage human interaction. For example, two opposing benches or L-shaped/U-shaped seating corners allow for small group conversations. Circular or wave-shaped long seating platforms create social areas where strangers can sit side-by-side and enjoy the view without being too disconnected. Small open “seating squares” can be designed with seating sections to allow street musicians or artists to perform. Such arrangements will support the social use of public space, adding vibrancy to the city mdpi.com.

  • Designs Respectful of Historical Fabric: Benches located in Basel’s old town (Altstadt) should complement the historical atmosphere as much as possible. Here, classic bench models with cast iron legs and wooden seats can be used. For example, Victorian-style wrought iron benches can be preferred in the city’s parks or historical streets. However, even these historical-looking benches should be ergonomically and durably made from modern materials (e.g., stainless casting, with protective paint) and their wood chosen from non-tropical, locally sourced sustainable trees. This way, a combination of history and modern comfort can be achieved.

Litter Bins and Recycling Units

Litter bins are critical for the cleanliness and order of public spaces. In a city renowned for its cleanliness like Basel, the design of litter bins should be both functional and environmentally friendly. Recommendations:

  • Standardized and Durable Designs: Throughout Basel-Stadt, standardized litter bin models are used to ensure visual consistency. For example, the “City” series litter bins preferred by the Basel municipality are an original design by Swiss designer Hannes Wettstein and feature a robust metal structure offering high resistance to vandalism christen-metallbau.ch. This type of standardization provides aesthetic integrity throughout the city while also simplifying maintenance and spare parts. When developing new design ideas, sturdy, long-lasting, and easily maintainable litter bins, similar to this successful example, should be considered. Bins made of thick steel sheet, with rounded corners and hinge systems suitable for frequent opening and closing, can be preferred. Their surfaces should be protected with special coatings resistant to graffiti and weather conditions, ensuring they retain their new appearance for years.

  • Recycling-Oriented Multi-Waste Units: In accordance with the needs of modern life, recycling units should also be available alongside litter bins in Basel’s streets. Integrated waste stations with separate compartments for paper, plastic, metal, and general waste will encourage citizens to sort their waste. For example, four-compartment waste sorting units placed in squares or near tram stops in the city center can be clearly categorized with pictograms and color codes for paper, plastic, glass, and other waste. These units should be designed with an aesthetically compatible design language (e.g., all in the same form but with different color-coded lids). Stainless steel or durable composite material can be used; lidded systems prevent rainwater entry and reduce odor/visual pollution. In line with Basel’s environmental awareness, small informative panels can also be placed next to these units to minimize disposable waste (e.g., “Dispose of PET bottles here for recycling”).

  • Integrated Ashtrays and Waste Stations: To prevent cigarette butts and other small litter from being thrown on the ground, integrated ashtrays (cigarette extinguishing receptacles) should be added to litter bins. In Basel, many litter bins have small metal perforated ashtray sections on their top or side. New designs should also consider this, possibly with stainless steel inner compartments for collecting cigarette butts to reduce fire risk. Similarly, in areas with high dog walking traffic, dog waste bag dispensers and waste compartments can be placed adjacent to litter bins. This integrated approach allows a single unit to serve multiple functions, preventing additional poles or bins in the city and thus avoiding visual clutter. For example, some urban furniture manufacturers in Switzerland have standardized the bag dispenser on litter bins; Basel could expand this practice.

  • Aesthetics and Environmental Compatibility: While litter bins are generally unobtrusive service elements, their design language should be compatible with the overall urban aesthetic. In Basel’s historical areas, simple cylindrical or prismatic metal bins in dark green, black, or grey tones can be used, while more daring designs or colorful recycling stations may be acceptable in modern areas. The important thing is to exhibit a simple and clean appearance instead of overly large logos or distracting elements. Designs that are neutral enough to blend into the city’s background but stand out with their quality materials when viewed closely are ideal. For example, a matte anthracite grey litter bin would blend seamlessly with the stone color of Basel’s historical buildings. Adding a small embossed Basel city crest could add a unique identity accent to the city.

  • Smart Litter Bins: With the possibilities offered by technology, fill sensors placed in litter bins can allow municipal cleaning teams to instantly track when each bin is full. This optimizes waste collection routes and frequencies, saving fuel and preventing overflowing bins. Some smart waste containers also have solar-powered compaction mechanisms, allowing more waste to be stored in the same volume. A city like Basel, open to innovation, can test such smart litter bins in pilot areas to increase efficiency. Of course, the design of these units should be consistent with traditional models; for example, they could appear as standard litter bins from the outside while housing sensors inside. Additionally, ensuring that digital components (sensors, transmitters, etc.) are weatherproof and securely protected is critically important.

Streetlights and Lighting Elements

City streetlights functionally provide safe illumination while also serving as important design elements that define the city’s night silhouette. When designing lighting elements in Basel, energy efficiency and aesthetic balance should be considered. Recommendations:

  • Historical and Modern Balance: In Basel’s old town areas (e.g., around the cathedral, near Marktplatz), classical style streetlights can be used to preserve the historical atmosphere. Decorative, cast-iron, lantern-type luminaires would be suitable for these environments. It is already possible to see nostalgic lamps reflecting the past in some of Basel’s streets. When modernizing these lamps, it is necessary to equip them with LED bulbs and choose a light temperature appropriate for the spirit of the environment (e.g., warm yellow tones). In areas dominated by modern architecture, minimalist LED lighting poles should be preferred. Slim-profile, matte metallic grey or black poles will reflect the city’s contemporary face without being distracting. Thus, a dual lighting design language can be adopted throughout Basel, following the principle of “the right style in the right place.”

  • Energy Efficiency and Smart Lighting: High-energy-efficient LED technology should be used in all streetlights. LEDs consume significantly less energy than traditional lighting and have a longer lifespan. Additionally, smart lighting systems can be integrated to reduce light intensity during off-peak hours or increase brightness when motion is detected. For example, after midnight in residential areas with low pedestrian traffic, lamps can switch to 50% brightness mode, but detect a pedestrian or cyclist with a sensor and return to full brightness. This prevents energy waste without compromising safety. Some advanced pole designs also include photocells that automatically adjust according to ambient light; similar applications can be integrated into existing plans in Basel. Furthermore, solar streetlights can be considered in open areas with high solar energy potential. These lamps, powered by integrated solar panels and battery systems on the pole, can provide sustainable lighting in places like parking lots or rural neighborhood roads, independent of the grid.

  • Multi-functional Lighting Poles: Modern streetlights can not only provide light but also take on other functions. When designing lighting poles in Basel, the idea of multi-functionality can be evaluated. For example, traffic and directional signs can be integrated into pole bodies, eliminating the need for separate signposts. Poles can also be used as mounting points for security cameras or environmental sensors (air quality, temperature sensors). In tourist areas, speakers can be integrated into lighting poles to broadcast music during festivals or emergency announcements. Additionally, some new generation pole designs include charging station sockets for electric vehicles or e-bikes; Basel could pilot these types of poles with integrated charging in certain areas to encourage environmentally friendly transportation. Care must be taken in the design to ensure these additional functions do not create visual clutter – they should be resolved with integrated and hidden mechanisms as much as possible, avoiding cable clutter on the pole.

  • Reducing Light Pollution and Aesthetic Lighting: In urban lighting, the direction and quality of light are as important as its function. Streetlights in Basel should have luminaire designs that focus light on the ground and pedestrian areas. Reflectors with cut-off angles should be used to prevent unnecessary light spillage into the sky, thereby preventing energy waste and reducing night sky pollution. This approach is an environmental contribution for a city that wishes to preserve its starry night view. Aesthetically, lighting poles around important historical structures (e.g., Basel Minster Cathedral, Mittlere Brücke) can be approached with special designs: perhaps using poles with slightly artistic forms or decorative details inspired by traditional motifs. However, the general rule should be unity and simplicity in design; a clutter of lamps with very different styles should be avoided. The experience of local companies that have been producing urban lighting elements in Switzerland for over 75 years (e.g., BURRI) emphasizes the importance of creating a consistent design language suitable for different environments burri.world burri.world. Utilizing this accumulated knowledge, functional and aesthetically pleasing lighting elements can be brought to Basel’s streets.

  • Material and Maintenance: The material of lighting poles is critical for ease of maintenance and durability. Hot-dip galvanized steel poles offer longevity and corrosion resistance; they can be produced in desired colors with a quality powder coating. Alternatively, stainless steel or anodized aluminum poles offer a contemporary look and lightness advantage. In some special areas, wood and metal combined poles could be considered, referencing Basel’s identity as a city of art and design (e.g., wooden parts as decorative cladding). However, if wood is used, regular maintenance (varnish/protector) must be remembered. Vandalism and accidents can be prevented by using unbreakable polycarbonate diffusers or tempered glass in lighting luminaires. For quick intervention by maintenance personnel, luminaires consisting of standard modular parts (easy-to-change bulb/LED module, driver, sensor, etc.) should be chosen.

Bicycle Parking (Bicycle Parks and Racks)

Basel is taking significant steps towards becoming a bicycle-friendly city. Bicycle parking is a critical infrastructure element to encourage bicycle use within the city. Well-designed bicycle parking furniture should meet the needs of bicycle users and also bring order to public spaces. Recommendations:

  • Safe and Convenient Bicycle Stands: Bicycle stands (bicycle parking racks), which form the basis of bicycle parking, should be designed to allow the bicycle to be locked by its frame. U-shaped or vertical support classic bicycle racks can support one or two bicycles. The U-profile galvanized pipe stands commonly seen in Basel also stand out for their ease of use and durability. These stands should be positioned at a certain height and interval from the ground to allow bicycles to be parked comfortably. As new design ideas, sculptural bicycle parks can be considered; for example, it is possible to create structures that serve as both works of art and bicycle parks by stylizing cultural motifs of Basel (such as wave forms inspired by the Rhine river, the basilisk symbol of Basel, or the “Baslerstab” figure from the city’s coat of arms). However, since functionality will always be a priority, these creative forms must also be practical enough not to hinder the bicycle locking function.

  • Covered and Protected Bicycle Parking: For bicycles parked for longer periods, covered, weather-protected parking areas should be preferred. A recent implementation in Basel is the installation of green-roofed bicycle shelters in some areas christen-metallbau.ch. These designs, featuring a steel roof structure with a vegetated green cover, provide both rain protection and increase urban greenery. The proposed design could be a simple canopy made of steel columns and beams; the plant soil layer on its roof would be equipped with low-maintenance succulent species. This way, a functional shelter and an aesthetic “green furniture” are combined. Areas where solar panels can be integrated are also available – for example, part of the shelter’s roof could be covered with semi-transparent solar panels to provide lighting at night with energy collected during the day (or transfer energy to a nearby lighting pole). Some manufacturers are developing the concept of solar bicycle shelters; Basel could evaluate this innovation.

  • Bicycle Service Stations: Providing small repair and maintenance stations near parking areas is valuable for bicycle users. These stations include various basic tools (pump, screwdriver, hex key set, tire repair kit, etc.) on a fixed stand. Placing such service points in areas with high bicycle use in Basel (e.g., university campus, around the train station, bicycle routes along the river) offers a free service that cyclists can benefit from when needed. From a design perspective, a robust metal column integrated with tools connected by steel cables to prevent theft can be envisioned. Usage instructions would be explained with pictograms. This column could also be painted in bright colors to be visible from a distance and reinforce the “bicycle-friendly city” image.

  • Space Optimization and Capacity: In areas with limited space in the city center, double-decker bicycle parking systems can be considered. Two-tier rail parking systems allow for storing twice as many bicycles in a single area. However, since these systems can require some effort to use, their design should include spring mechanisms that ensure balance, and usage instructions should be clear. Furthermore, in heavily used bicycle parks (e.g., around Basel SBB main train station), order can be provided with signs and numbering. Parking spaces can be divided into sections with different colored paving or lines and numbered to make it easier for cyclists to remember where they parked their bikes.

  • Aesthetic Integration: Bicycle parking is generally considered functional, but it can also contribute to urban aesthetics. For example, the ground of some designed bicycle parking areas can be covered with specially patterned stones, or the forms of the stands can be arranged like an art installation. Creative bicycle parks that could be featured in Basel’s design biennials would also reflect the city’s innovative spirit. The use of transparent materials is also an interesting option: transparent bicycle stands made of plexiglass or durable polycarbonate prevent visual heaviness and do not obstruct the urban fabric. These can be lit from the edges with LED lights to create a pleasant appearance at night. In summary, bicycle parking furniture should be considered not only functional but also visually appealing and identity-emphasizing elements within the city.

Bus Stops (Waiting Shelters)

Public transport stops are frequently used spaces where city dwellers spend their waiting time in daily life. Therefore, bus/tram stops should be as comfortable and safe as they are functional. In Basel, stop designs should reflect the city’s modern transportation infrastructure and be equipped with user-friendly features. Recommendations:

  • Protected and Comfortable Shelter Structures: Stop cabins providing full protection against weather conditions are essential. Three-sided, transparent-paneled shelters that shield passengers from rain, wind, and snow can be used. The roof should be sufficiently wide and have a slope to drain rainwater backward. Similar to the Zurich-style enclosed shelters accepted as an SBB standard in Basel, similar ones are already in use christen-metallbau.ch. In new designs, these can be improved by adding wider glass panels on the side facades, water gutters on the roof edges, and integrated lighting. Seating benches should be located inside the cabin, preferably made of durable wood or perforated metal. Leaning bars should also be considered; slanted support bars offer relief for those standing during busy hours.

  • Accessibility and Disability-Friendly Design: Stop layouts should be arranged to facilitate use by individuals with disabilities. Sufficient maneuvering space should be left within the stop for wheelchair users, and bus entry doors should be aligned with accessible ramps or raised platform areas. The stop’s ground can include tactile paving (raised strips) for the visually impaired and signs with stop information in Braille. For the hearing impaired, visual information becomes even more important; therefore, digital screens at stops can be used for silent announcements (bus arrival time, route changes, etc.). Button-activated audio announcement systems (e.g., for a disabled passenger to press and hear the arrival time of their desired line) can also be integrated. All these elements will result in a stop consistent with universal design principles mdpi.com mdpi.com.

  • Real-time Information and Smart Stops: In a modern city, stops should not only be waiting areas but also serve as information points. In Basel, many stops already have digital information screens showing waiting times for approaching vehicles. This application should be expanded, and real-time electronic signs should be installed at all stops. Additionally, digital systems at stops can provide information about the city’s transportation map and important places in the vicinity (hospital, school, museum, etc.). Within the smart stop concept, integrated touch-screen information displays can be placed in stop cabins. Through these screens, passengers can access interactive maps, route planners, event announcements, and more. However, such devices must be vandalism-resistant and simple to use. Solar-powered stops offer an advantage here: For example, as in Berso model stops, integrating photovoltaic panels into the roof allows them to generate their own energy, powering lighting and electronic screens independently from the grid christen-metallbau.ch. This is valuable in terms of sustainability and operational convenience.

  • Green-Roofed and Eco-Friendly Stops: A trend that has become popular in European cities in recent years is transforming bus stop roofs into mini green gardens. In some Swiss cities (e.g., taking the Utrecht model as an example), green-roofed stops have started to be implemented. Basel can also take steps in this direction by equipping stop roofs with succulent plants in certain pilot areas. These plants require minimal maintenance, absorb rainwater to aid drainage, and provide extra coolness in summer. They also create micro-habitats for bees and butterflies, contributing to urban biodiversity. The green roof concept will be a movement symbolizing Basel’s environmental sensitivity. Visually, a lush green stop roof instead of a concrete or metal roof adds a pleasant touch to the urban landscape.

  • Lighting and Security: In cities that are active 24 hours a day, stops should be designed with nighttime use in mind. Each stop should have LED lighting illuminating the interior and signs. For energy saving, they can be motion-sensored or time-controlled, but a certain minimum light level must be continuously maintained for safety. Transparent glass panels are good for both security (allowing the interior to be seen from outside) and a sense of spaciousness; therefore, the proportion of glass surfaces in stop cabins should be kept as high as possible. For vandalism resistance, the glass should be tempered and laminated so it does not shatter when broken. Alternatively, durable polycarbonate panels can be used (scratch-resistant types may be preferred). The stop design should also consider not obstructing the view of security cameras; if necessary, small camera units can be integrated into the poles.

  • Aesthetics and Identity: Basel’s bus and tram stops are part of the city’s overall design identity. Therefore, consistency in design language must be ensured. For example, the color scheme of the stops can be chosen to match Basel’s coat of arms’ red-black-white palette (e.g., neutral grey-metal body, red accent details). Readable typographies, consistent with the city’s graphic design traditions, should be used on stop signs. Since Basel is a city of art, some stops can be enriched with special panels or patterns designed by artists (e.g., a motif dedicated to Basel’s famous artists could be etched onto the back glass of a stop). Such touches add uniqueness to the city. However, a simple and function-focused geometry should be maintained as a general form; simple rectangular/oval structures are advantageous for both ease of production and aesthetic integrity, rather than complex forms.

Street Planters and Landscape Elements

In urban spaces, vegetation extends beyond parks to street planters and landscape elements, bringing life to the streets. In a historical city like Basel, street planters are furniture that both enliven the environment and bridge the gap between natural and built surroundings. Recommendations:

  • Integrated Seating Planters: Large-scale street planters can also be designed as seating units. For example, wooden seating platforms can be created on the edges of a large circular planter. This creates both a green element and resting spots for city residents. Similar applications are seen in some squares in Basel, where benches are built around tree bases. In new designs, creating “island” shaped green spaces with seating surfaces around their edges would be effective. Examples include planter + seating element combinations such as “Blanket” or “Island” from GTSM’s product range christen-metallbau.ch. This approach offers a multi-functional solution for both rest and decoration, especially on pedestrianized shopping streets or wide sidewalks.

  • Sustainable Material Planters: Material selection is important for street planters as they are constantly exposed to external elements. Corten steel planters, which self-rust to form a protective layer, achieve a stylish rust color that harmonizes with historical buildings and are long-lasting. While wooden planters offer a warm appearance, they should be protected against rot due to constant contact with soil and water, or preferably designed as hybrids with a steel inner construction and wooden outer cladding. Stone planters (natural stone or stone-look concrete) also integrate well with Basel’s architectural fabric. For example, simple rectangular planters made from the same limestone/marble materials used for the city’s sidewalks create a cohesive look with the surroundings. These stone units will be very heavy and thus used permanently, but offer high durability. If lightness is desired, glass fiber reinforced concrete or recycled plastic composite planters can be considered. These materials offer flexibility as they can be produced in desired textures and colors.

  • Urban Green Barriers: When used strategically, street planters can function as green barriers separating traffic and pedestrian areas. Some historical streets in Basel are closed or restricted to vehicle traffic; large plant planters placed at the entrances to these areas create both a visually soft boundary and a physical barrier. For example, heavy concrete/stone planters can also be considered as a type of security barrier (bollard) (for preventing vehicle entry). Seasonal flowers or miniature trees planted in these planters add vibrancy to the environment. During Christmas, Christmas flowers, in spring tulips/hyacinths, and in summer colorful flowers will give Basel’s streets small gardens that change with the seasons. Such arrangements can also be integrated into Basel’s cultural events (e.g., colorful decorations during Fasnacht, planters painted by artists during an art festival).

  • Self-Watering and Drained Designs: For ease of maintenance, large planters can be equipped with reservoir watering systems. This means a reservoir for water at the bottom of the planter and a capillary system to deliver water to the plant roots. This eliminates the need for daily watering, allowing the plant to draw water from the bottom reservoir as it consumes it. In Switzerland, municipalities are increasingly using such water-retaining planters. Additionally, drainage holes for excess rainwater and hidden wheeled pallets at the base (supports that create a slight gap under the planter for drainage) should be considered in the design. The planter material should not crack in winter due to freezing; therefore, plastic liners or flexible sealing materials can be used.

  • Community Participation and Adoption: The successful long-term use of urban furniture also depends on its adoption by city residents. At this point, small “adoption” projects where Basel residents can participate in street planters can be proposed. For example, neighborhood residents can participate in planting activities in their streets, and small gardening workshops can be organized for children. Thus, these furniture pieces become not just objects but living urban gardens. From a design perspective, to facilitate such participation, if the planters are designed to be slightly elevated from the ground and wide enough at the edges to allow seating, people can gather around them. Small signs about the plant species and care can be placed on them. This transforms urban furniture into an educational element as well.

Information Boards and Wayfinding Elements

Information and wayfinding boards within the city guide both residents and visitors, enhancing the urban experience. When designing information boards and wayfinding signs in Basel, both functionality and the city’s renowned graphic design heritage should be considered (the clear and legible style of Swiss graphic design is a guide in this field). Recommendations:

  • City Maps and Tourist Information Boards: Especially at tourist spots and transportation hubs, there should be boards with bird’s-eye view city maps. These boards should be supported by multilingual explanations (in German, English, French, and preferably common tourist languages like Italian and Turkish), marking important points within walking distance. Basel-Stadt administration is known to have already tested digital/touch-screen information kiosks at some points burri.world burri.world. These applications can be expanded, for example, by placing an interactive city guide screen at the train station exit. On the touch screen, users can select their destination to view route information, distance, and nearby stops. These kiosks should be selected from high-brightness screens visible in sunlight and designed to operate 24 hours a day (automatic shutdown at night can also be planned for security).

  • Analog and Digital Combination: Since fully digital systems can malfunction, critical information must also have analog (printed or fixed) counterparts. For example, a cultural event announcement might be shown rotationally on a digital screen and also displayed in a fixed poster display case next to the same stop. In Switzerland, BURRI has been producing such cultural poster stands (models like Kulturständer Soleil) for many years, and similar ones exist in Basel burri.world burri.world. These stands are elements where double-sided posters can be displayed, illuminated when necessary. As new design ideas, these elements can evolve into hybrid forms where a digital screen and a classic poster are used together. For example, information towers with a digital ticket/status screen at the top and a poster board at the bottom can be considered.

  • Pedestrian Wayfinding Systems: In Basel, there should be wayfinding poles or board systems at specific points to help pedestrians easily find their way around the city. Especially in the narrow streets of the old town center, “walking route signs” with arrows and distance information indicating important tourist attractions are very useful. These signs can also indicate approximate walking times (e.g., “Museum: 5 min →”) to guide visitors’ decisions. From a design perspective, color coding (e.g., one color for museums, another for official buildings) and internationally understandable pictograms should be used. Their height should be set at an adult’s eye level, and a second lower panel or sloped surface should be added for disabled access.

  • Smart Boards with Digital Integration: In today’s smart city concept, information boards can be supported by IoT technologies. For example, a digital screen at a specific intersection can show how many minutes away the approaching tram is, the weather, emergency alerts, or public announcements. These screens work like a network throughout the city, providing instant information. In a technology-friendly city like Basel, even data such as traffic density maps or air quality index can be shared on public screens. However, it is important to present such information simply and clearly; too much data clutter can overwhelm the user. Nudge design principles can come into play here: For example, a board in a pedestrian area might give encouraging messages like, “The weather is nice today, the next stop is only a 10-minute walk away – prefer to walk!” Academic studies emphasize that urban furniture can also be used in this way to promote healthy living and sustainable behavior mdpi.com mdpi.com.

  • Material and Lighting: The material of information boards is important for longevity and legibility in outdoor environments. Posters/maps should be displayed under non-reflective tempered glass or polycarbonate protections. For metal components, stainless steel or durable aluminum can be preferred; this provides both lightness and durability. The color should again be consistent with the colors chosen for the entirety of Basel’s urban furniture (likely neutral dark grey tones, contrasting with white text/printing). For nighttime use, internal lighting or external spot lighting for the boards should be considered. Especially information display cases at stops, if backlit with LEDs at night, will appear both aesthetic and improve readability. Motion-sensitive lighting can also be applied to these boards for energy saving (e.g., light intensifies when someone approaches).

  • Urban Identity and Graphic Design: Switzerland has a world-renowned history in graphic design; the Basel School of Design is a pioneer in this field. Therefore, Basel’s public information boards should also be exemplary in the quality of their graphics. They should have legible fonts (e.g., simple Helvetica-derived fonts), high color contrast, and a clear design language free of unnecessary ornamentation. This serves not only aesthetics but also function: facilitating easy understanding and quick consumption of information. For example, on a pedestrian map, main lines are drawn thick, the “You are here” point is highlighted in a distinct color, and simple icons are used for important structures. These principles are already applied in many places in Basel, but the same consistency should be maintained in new designs. Since information boards, as urban furniture, are both design objects and communication tools, special attention should be paid to the integrity of design and content.

Other Urban Furniture and Supporting Elements

In addition to the specified categories, other urban furniture also affects the quality of urban life. Here are some brief additional suggestions:

  • Bollards and Traffic Columns: Short posts (bollards) that protect pedestrian areas from vehicle traffic are frequently seen in Basel. Compatibility with the city’s character is essential in their design. For example, simple cylindrical cast iron bollards can be used in a historical street, while stainless steel, LED-lit bollards can be preferred in a modern area. Among new solutions, retractable hydraulic bollards are also available; they recess into the ground when needed (e.g., for emergency vehicle access). These systems can be used in Basel, especially during events. Reflective strips or small crests can be added to fixed bollards to provide both safety and aesthetics.

  • Phone Charging Kiosks: Today, the need for mobile phone charging has created a new requirement in public spaces. In Basel, small solar-powered charging stations can be installed in certain squares or park corners. These stations contain 3-4 lockable cabinets; citizens can place their phones inside, lock them, and walk around while they charge. Advertisements or city information can also be displayed on the outer surface. From a design perspective, they should be envisioned as small cabins compatible with the city. Alternatively, wireless charging pads integrated into certain benches could be added (although the risk of security and vandalism would be higher).

  • Urban Art and Sculpture Furniture: Basel is an art city; there are many sculptures and art installations in public spaces. Some of these can also be functional. For example, a sculpture might also provide shade, or an installation might contain seating pockets. Such art-furniture hybrids create unique experiences for the city. Through collaboration between designers and artists, original furniture art pieces can be brought to Basel’s squares. These works fulfill a functional need (seating, waiting, meeting point) while adding aesthetic value.

  • Drinking Fountains: Clean drinking water fountains are a traditional and important element in Swiss cities. Basel also has historical fountains. In new locations or along park/bicycle routes, modernly designed water fountains can be added. Stainless steel or stone materials, adorned with the city’s crest or name, continuous flow or sensor-activated fountains, please both tourists and locals. These fountains should be designed at a height suitable for wheelchair access and with additional basins for pets to drink water. As part of sustainable living, “fill your bottle” messages can also be provided alongside to reduce plastic bottle usage.

  • Bus and Tram Interior Furniture: Although focused on outdoor spaces, enclosed stop halls (e.g., waiting areas inside the main station), which can be considered an extension of public transport stops, are also part of urban furniture design. In Basel SBB or central tram stops, interior benches, information kiosks, litter bins, ticket machines, and other elements should also be arranged with a consistent design approach. Especially in waiting areas, comfortable benches, phone charging points, small book-sharing shelves, and other details that keep people engaged and comfortable can be considered.

It is clear that an attractive aesthetic must be integrated with sustainable and durable materials across all urban furniture categories mentioned above mdpi.com. Furthermore, requirements such as accessibility, modularity, safety, and multi-functionality should guide every design mdpi.com. In the case of Basel, considering both historical fabric and modern requirements, urban furniture can incorporate both solutions respectful of the past and smart solutions geared towards the future.

Conclusion

The proposed urban furniture design ideas for the city of Basel are based on a comprehensive approach that prioritizes functionality while considering aesthetic and cultural compatibility. Every element – from benches to litter bins, streetlights to information boards – has been addressed with the aim of facilitating the daily lives of city residents. Sustainable materials, accessibility, weather resistance, and multi-functionality are common denominators across all designs. The recommended design principles are blended with Basel’s unique architectural identity and societal needs. Research shows that urban furniture plays a significant role in enhancing the city’s attractiveness and strengthening social interaction mdpi.com mdpi.com. When the suggestions in this report are implemented, Basel’s streets and squares will become more livable, contemporary, and inviting spaces. Urban furniture will become not just physical objects, but also elements that reflect the city’s spirit and establish an emotional connection between people and the city. These designs, respectful of Basel’s historical fabric and sensitive to modern life, aim to offer a more functional, aesthetic, and sustainable urban experience for residents and visitors alike.

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