We designed a pair of flowing parametric public benches for 150 Londsdale Street at Wesley Place on Wurundjeri Country in Melbourne. The complex designs wrap curving brick walls and accommodate a sloping passageway.

Parametric design is the use of algorithmic modelling to calculate complicated geometries within set parameters. Today the process is software-based, but the principles are said to have been used since Antoni Gaudí modelled buildings with weighted strings over one hundred years ago.

These softly glowing seats, crafted by StraBe Group, offer a contrast to the cold formality of the bluestone colonnade linking Lonsdale and Little Lonsdale streets at Wesley Place. The warmth of the sustainably sourced spotted gum timber and the free-flowing form of the CNC (computer numerical control) routed panels introduce a playful sculptural element that embraces the gentle slope to offer a variety of comfortable seating positions.

One bench features a deep lounge position beneath the glow of the skylight, that encourages visitors to lie back and look up to Maree Clarke’s Gulinj-al Ngulu Kerr-up-non Biik-u (The Voice of Kulin Country) artwork (fabricated by Canberra Glassworks, curated by Broached Commissions). The other seat traces the curves of COX Architecture’s brick façade.

If you’re in Melbourne, you’re welcome to go and take a seat!