interaction & innovation— social Bench
SUMMIT
Developed over a five-week studio led by Sigi Moeslinger and Masamichi Udagawa of Antenna Design, the Summit Bench explores how seating can serve as both everyday infrastructure and symbolic intervention in public space.
The Summit Bench is composed of wooden seats divided by mountain-shaped partitions, which from a distance connect visually into a continuous range. This sculptural form transforms ordinary seating into a landscape that suggests both separation and connection: while the dividers provide personal space, the overall silhouette invites people to feel part of a shared environment. Intended for parks, campuses, and public squares, the bench offers not only a place for rest and social interaction, but also an opportunity to pause, reflect, and experience a subtle connection to nature within the urban setting.
Team Members: Qi Guan, Haosen Zhang, Tong Zhao
Structure
The Summit Bench is built from seven mountain-shaped partitions and 44 wooden panels. Each partition was CNC-cut with slots, allowing the panels to slide in and interlock to form both the seating surface and the frame.
This interlocking system spreads the load across all partitions, giving the bench stability and strength.
To further secure the joints, nails were added at key points, while hinges were used in specific areas to assist assembly and reinforcement. Together, these elements create a structure that is both sturdy and practical for everyday use.
We first used CNC cutting to shape all of the wooden parts, making sure each piece had precise dimensions. Afterwa
Before assembly, we worked on finishing the panels. After machine sanding, we hand-sanded every edge to make them smooth and rounded, preventing splinters and ensuring a comfortable touch. We then applied a coat of wood stain to bring out the natural grain and add protection, followed by layers of wax
With the panels prepared, we moved on to assembly. We began with a dry-fit, checking how the panels slid into the slots of the partitions and making small adjustments where needed. Once everything aligned, we reinforced the structure with nails at key points and added hinges in certain areas to provide extra stability. The result is a bench that is sturdy, functional, and welcoming
