Materials Used in Urban Furniture Production
Urban furniture encompasses a variety of elements such as benches, tables, trash bins, and bike racks, designed to enhance public spaces. The selection of materials for these items is crucial for durability, maintenance, aesthetics, and environmental impact. Below is an overview of the primary materials used in urban furniture production and their applications.
- Wood
– Types: Commonly used woods include hardwoods like oak and softwoods like pine. Sustainable options often come from FSC-certified sources.
– Properties: Wood provides a natural aesthetic and comfort but requires regular maintenance to prevent decay and weathering.
– Applications: Frequently used for benches, picnic tables, and decorative elements in parks and public squares.
- Metals
Steel:
– Types: Includes standard steel, stainless steel (304 and 316), and Corten steel.
– Properties: Known for strength and durability; stainless steel is corrosion-resistant while Corten develops a protective rust layer.
– Applications: Used in benches, bike racks, and structural elements.
– Aluminum:
– Properties: Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and recyclable. It is often anodized for additional protection.
– Applications: Commonly found in modern designs for benches and tables.
– Ductile Iron:
– Properties: Stronger than traditional cast iron; often used in heavy-duty applications.
– Applications: Manhole covers, grates, and urban furniture components.
- Concrete
– Types: Ultra High Performance Concrete (UHPC) is increasingly favored for its strength and versatility.
– Properties: Highly durable and low-maintenance; can be molded into various shapes.
– Applications: Used for benches, planters, and structural elements in urban design.
- Recycled Plastics
– Types: Primarily includes polyethylene (PE) sourced from post-consumer recycled materials.
– Properties: Weather-resistant, does not rust, and is 100% recyclable. It also offers antibacterial properties.
– Applications: Ideal for benches, trash bins, and playground equipment due to its durability.
- Composite Materials
– Composition: Made from a mixture of wood fibers and recycled plastics.
– Properties: Combines the aesthetic appeal of wood with the durability of plastics; resistant to weathering.
– Applications: Commonly used for decking, benches, and fencing.
- Sustainable Materials
– Increasing emphasis on sustainability has led to the use of materials like:
– FSC Certified Wood: Ensures responsible sourcing from sustainably managed forests.
– Recycled Aluminum and PVC: Strong and long-lasting with reduced environmental impact.
– Eco-friendly Composites: Made from renewable resources that minimize waste.
Conclusion
The choice of materials in urban furniture production significantly influences functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability. By integrating traditional materials like wood and metal with innovative options such as recycled plastics and composites, designers can create durable public spaces that enhance urban living while minimizing environmental impact. As cities evolve, the focus on sustainable practices in urban furniture design will continue to grow in importance.
Citations:
[1] https://grupfabregas.com/en/information-about-materials/
[2] https://www.armandesign.com/projeler/concrete-urban-benches-street-furniture-design/
[3] https://www.enessere.com/en/sustainable-street-furniture-designing-eco-friendly-spaces-in-cities/
[5] https://www.artformurban.co.uk/products/materials.html
[6] https://www.meb-expo.ru/en/ui/17153/
