studio 212 fahrenheit creates a mirrored bench to symbolize our 1.5 meter society

during the covid-19 pandemic, we maintain physical distance but we have to ensure that we do not create social distance. this is why studio 212 fahrenheit created ‘benched’. this bench can be seen as a symbolic and poetic representation of the present time, in which we live in a 1.5 meter society due to the covid-19 pandemic. it opens up possibilities for lasting encounters with friends and family but also with strangers who can seat on the bench at the same time. it ensures that we still can meet one another – even if it is with a distance.

all images by julia lefeber

the bench is 2.5 meters wide, with a middle part – exactly 1.5 meters – made from polished stainless steel. the part in between is invisible due to the mirror effect. only the left and right side of the bench are clearly visible as a seating area. the reflection creates a physical distance, but at the same time it makes the distance invisible.

project info:

project name: benched

design: studio 212 fahrenheit in collaboration with buro bordo

photography: julia lefeber

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.