Header: Western Washington University
Sometimes, innovation occurs where we don’t think it possible, where the object is already so common and practical that any other shape’s possibilities become irrelevant. An example of this are public seating options, as normal benches are already so good we don’t normally imagine them being able to look any different. POD shows us no area is free of innovation, as its hexagon shape is perfect for any type of public setting due to its looks, versatility, and emphasis on privacy.
Designed by two students from Western Washington University, Alex Orelind and Arthur Hamilton, POD offers two seating options based on angles—105 and 130 degrees to be exact—so users can decide whether to sit upright or to relax protected from the sun.
Constructed from veneered ¾” Baltic birch plywood and bent acrylic, POD was built with heavy usage in mind, making it ideal for high-traffic areas. Its design accommodates various purposes, from offering a quiet spot for individual lounging to creating a space for group interactions. This flexibility makes POD suitable for any space, be it a library, a park, a university, or even an office.
Due to its clean and minimalist design, POD can fit right in with any modern interior. Due to its shape, natural light can swarm around the user without being too harsh, making this seating option perfect for sitting down and working from a computer or catching up with a friend or coworker.
