Salta Bench, Lock/Sluis, Harelbeke, Belgium

The Salta bench was created out of the desire to make an object that is beautiful to look at, while being pleasant to sit on. It is the result of a thorough research into the maximum reduction of material to create a stable structure that only leaves a minimal footprint on the public space. Studying the architecture of bridges, the designers have conceived a bench that seems to defy gravity. While it has a generous seating surface, the air flows freely below. Standing on its four slender legs it does not obstruct views. It is made of Ultra High Performance concrete, giving it the strength of granite and the look of marble. Through its elegance, the bench seems to transform the public space into an outdoor living room. The height of the bench is similar to that of a sofa and invites a passer-by to sit down and spend a moment at rest. Its large width allows people to sit on both sides facing one another, while its length can be used by several persons at the same time, creating chance encounters. The Salta Bench brings a moment of grace and beauty to the sidewalks and plazas of our cities.

Copyrights:
©Bureau Bas Smets (project by) - BBS158, Harelbeke, Lock
©Michiel De Cleene (photos by) - photographs
©Bas Smets and Eliane Le Roux - Salta Bench