# Sofa-Mimicking Bleachers ‘The Couch’ is a Seating Area Located at Amsterdam’s IJburg Tennis Club By Ady Floyd | Published 2015-10-14 | Lifestyle Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-couch References: [lockerdome](https://lockerdome.com/6553689557045825/8117642305347348) & [mvrdv.nl](http://www.mvrdv.nl/en/projects/tennis-club) Dutch architect firm '[MVRDV](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/portlantis)' created 'The Couch,' which is a [public seating area](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/leftover-bench) for onlookers at the IJburg Tennis Club in Amsterdam. This unique piece of architecture is a red seating area for sporting events. The bleacher is a symmetric row of benches that look as though each end is pinched together and widens into an oval-shaped center. ‘The Couch’ acts as a roofing unit to the clubhouse, which is located below it. On the underbelly of the bleachers there is a [lounge and eatery](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sidelined). This area is lined with wooden paneling, which covers the floors and ceilings. The backside of the clubhouse features a massive glass window that allows diners and those relaxing to enjoy a panoramic view of the adjacent waterfront. Additionally, this lower level provides a place for storage, a kitchen and locker rooms. The ultimate goal for this entire space is to provide the community with a location to gather and relax free of charge. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 2.8/10 - Popularity: 36% | Activity: 39% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 70% men, 30% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Gen Alpha, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Lifestyle](https://www.trendhunter.com/lifestyle) > [Sports](https://www.trendhunter.com/sports) ## Key Themes ### What Makes This Trend Stand Out - **Symmetric Architecture:** Exploring the use of symmetric designs in architecture to create visually striking and functional spaces. - **Multifunctional Seating:** Integrating seating areas with additional functionalities such as lounges and eateries for enhanced user experience. - **Community Gathering Spaces:** Designing public spaces that promote community interaction and relaxation. ### Sectors Adopting This - **Architecture:** Opportunities for architects to experiment with unique designs and create innovative seating areas. - **Hospitality:** Potential for restaurants and lounges to incorporate unique seating elements into their design, creating visually appealing dining experiences. - **Sports and Recreation:** Integrating innovative and visually striking seating solutions to enhance spectator experiences at sporting events. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Airport Lounge Seating](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wood-islands.md) - [Ribbed-Cushioned Couches](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/note-design.md) - [Architectural Library Furniture](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/reading-nooks.md) - [Sculptural Public Seating](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sculptural-public-seating.md) - [Elevated Sleek Grandstand Redesigns](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/deportivo-zanatepec.md) - [Playful Public Seating Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/playful-public-seating.md) - [Elegantly Airy Outdoor Benches](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/arch-bench.md) - [Envelope-Packaged Couch Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/couch-in-an-envelope.md) - [Racket-Inspired Tennis Centers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/all-england-lawn.md)