'Les Ateliers Guyon' recently installed a number of Sail Benches along the banks of the St. Lawrence River. While sailing is a popular pastime for many people, not everyone has the opportunity to experience the feeling of setting out on the open water. This urban furniture project allows people to feel as though they are heading out to sea without ever leaving dry land.
The Sail Benches are located on the edge of the St. Lawrence River in Vercheres, Quebec. The benches were designed to provide a place where the public would be able to sit and observe the sights and sounds of the river. Each bench features a towering sail that is tilted at 10 degrees to create the feeling of movement. The sails are made from a combination of white oak, concert and metal, which gives them a timeless look. White oak was specifically chosen as a homage to the boat-builders who used the material in the 18th century.
The installation provides a unique way for residents to celebrate the history of the St. Lawrence River.
Sailing-inspired Benches
These 'Sail Benches' Resemble the Boats Found on the St. Lawrence River
Trend Themes
1. Nautical-themed Urban Furniture - Develop nautical-themed furniture designs for use in urban spaces that evoke the feeling of being on the water without leaving dry land.
2. White Oak-based Design - Incorporate white oak wood into product design as a way to pay tribute to historical use and create a timeless aesthetic.
3. Tilting Structures - Create structures that can be tilted at an angle to give an illusion of movement, providing people with a unique and experiential way to observe their surroundings.
Industry Implications
1. Furniture Design - Develop nautical-themed furniture designs that could be placed on the edge of bodies of water, parks, or other public spaces.
2. Urban Design and Architecture - Incorporate white oak wood into designs for structures located in natural, body of water, or other outdoor settings.
3. Tourism and Sightseeing - Design and implement museum installations, tourist attractions, and other experiential opportunities that incorporate elements of movement or give visitors unique perspectives of their surroundings.