Site Furniture Selection: Context Based Criteria

Abstract

somehow virtually the same type of seating is used within all exterior environments. The classic bench--either single seat or multiple--has been around for at least 200 years. In contrast, the “form follows function” mantra of the modernist was instrumental in the advancement of interior furniture design and selection. Using modernist theory as a premise, criteria are developed that expands the definition of function to include factors such as refuge and visual preference. A review of environmental psychology literature informs the more complete definition of a seat’s function, and thus results in a more appropriate and purposeful selection and arrangement of furniture in an exterior space. The criteria for the selection of site furnishings that provide more complete function were developed and tested on two sites within the University of Michigan campus. Defining the function of a seat to include factors of environmental psychology and the development of related criteria for evaluation did, in fact, result in a furniture selection that is more appealing and useful for a given setting and user.