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Hi there! Howdy! Bonjour! How are you doing today? I hope you’re well! Have a good one!

Being friendly can go a long way. Even if you only have a brief interaction with someone, showing a bit of kindness can make their day and inspire them to spread a little more positivity as well. And contrary to what you might believe, people and animals are not the only ones who can be friendly. Apparently architecture can be too.

Allow me to introduce you to Friendly Architecture. This subreddit celebrates all of the people-friendly places in the world, from beautiful cycle paths to train tunnels that block anyone from falling onto the tracks. We’ve gathered some of our favorite posts from this friendly group, so you too can appreciate the brilliance of these architects who were thinking ahead. Be sure to upvote all of the pics of infrastructure that you would give a hearty “hello!” to if you came across them, and then let us know in the comments where the friendliest architecture you’ve ever encountered was. Keep reading to also find an interview with Honor Hingston-Cox, the creator of Friendly Architecture, and then if you’re looking for another Bored Panda article appreciating great design after finishing this list, we’ve got you covered right here.

#1

Wildlife Overpass, Trans-Canada Highway, Banff National Park, Canada. The 38 Passes And Fencing Have Reduced Wildlife-Vehicle Collisions By More Than 80%

Wildlife Overpass, Trans-Canada Highway, Banff National Park, Canada. The 38 Passes And Fencing Have Reduced Wildlife-Vehicle Collisions By More Than 80%

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Claudette Shaw
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was just leaving Banff headed west just about to drive under the crossing and wouldn't you know it I had to hit the brakes and stop for a young grizzly who decided as teenagers will do , he was too cool to use the bridge and had jumped the fencing to cross the road! Horn and lights were used to get the rest of the traffic to stop. The speed limits through Canada's parks is also dropped to further try and prevent road kill.

Amy Burke
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

should have these everywhere and mess fencing to stop animals from having access to the roads

Cheryl Skina
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I absolutely love these and wish there were more all over the world.

2x4b523p
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It is good idea and avoids animals getting killed on the roads but I also heard the predators learned to hunt near them, just waiting for their prey to cross.

Lutz Herting
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Predators also do that near water, near places where prey animals find food, and near natural wildlife paths in the forests. The predator goes where the prey is. Until a bigger predator arrives. That's just how the predator-prey dynamic works.

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LaurieAnne Smith
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Imagine the Wildlife we could save if we put them ín our "danger" spots.

Kathryn Jensen
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I agree, we need more of these wildlife passage ways here in the states, especially Vermont where I live. Deer can do a lot of damage to vehicles when they get hit!

Leif Andersen
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

We have one in Denmark, especially designed for a peculiar kind of shrews. It doesn't work, though. They don't like it ...

Loraine MacGinness
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Surely they are encouraging rather than a deterrent to avoid the motorways ??

Cherry Oehme
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank goodness somebody is considering the wildlife at last they should be compulsory on motorways 🍒

April Pickett
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm pretty sure California is building some animal overpasses. I'm not sure if any other state is, but this should be included in every highway construction site, in every state.

Barbara Stewart
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Too bad America doesn't have the brains to do this. Colorado could really use these.

Lyone Fein
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This should be required on all highway construction globally.

Siggy Siggrid
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

These are common in Czech Republic as well, I always thought it's nothing special...

Brobro McDuderson
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

We were just there! Only thing cooler than see this, was watching the wildlife cross over it!

TheDivineMsM
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The drawback is that predatory animals like wolves and coyotes have figured out that prey gather to cross here- so it sets up danger for crossing animals in a different way.

Christine Ashe
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I wish we had these where I live. I get so upset when I think of how deer must feel when they get hit.

Bobert Robertson
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

These are amazing for larger predators. They are so smart they just sit and wait by these for smaller prey to cross. Like a funnel right to them.

John Bujold
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The first wildlife overpass in the park was installed in 1996. It's made a huge difference in animal safety. Fencing keeps animals off the road and directs them toward the safe crossings. "ver the span that they have existed, they've reduced wildlife mortality by 80. So 26 years and going strong. I've driven under these many times during travel.

Susan Green
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I’ve driven under these many times, I love them. They also have really high fencing on both sides of the highway, so wildlife can’t run across.

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To hear more about the background of this friendly page, we reached out to the subreddit's creator, Honor Hingston-Cox, to hear what inspired her to launch Friendly Architecture in the first place. "I've been a fan of thoughtfully built things forever, and particularly since Design Like You Give a Damn by Architecture for Humanity came out back in 2006," Honor told Bored Panda. "In 2010, I heard the RadioLab short about a bus stop for people with dementia in Dusseldorf, and I knew that there just had to be even more good in the world of the built environment. I started seeking out designs that considered specific groups of people or animals," she explained.

"Later I was introduced to the world of Hostile Architecture. This is where the built environment is designed to change the users behavior in a negative way. Hostile architecture is designed to stop people sitting down (think spikes on walls) or lying down (arm rests on benches), or to stop birds nesting ('bird spikes'). I realized that the architecture I was into was about encouraging behaviors, instead of stopping them."

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    #2

    In Norway You Get A Small Amount Of Money For Recycling Bottles/Cans. They're Often Collected By Poor People, Homeless Etc. A Lot Of Our Trash Cans Has These Holders Around Them So People Don't Have To Search Through The Trash To Collect Them

    In Norway You Get A Small Amount Of Money For Recycling Bottles/Cans. They're Often Collected By Poor People, Homeless Etc. A Lot Of Our Trash Cans Has These Holders Around Them So People Don't Have To Search Through The Trash To Collect Them

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    "One day, after getting overwhelmed by the negativity of Hostile Architecture, I started a subreddit to collect all of the good things," Honor says. "I posted a picture of a picnic table designed with an overhang on one side, made to accommodate a person in a wheelchair. The table encourages everyone to sit together. It doesn't stop behaviors, it starts them."

    "Slowly people found the sub from my posts as a mod on Hostile Architecture. I think that other people needed a chaser after seeing some of the awful, mean design in the world. I separated the posts into categories of thought and catalogued things that are accessible, social, promote sharing and coexisting with nature, provide shelter, food/water, rest, information, sanitation, or are about saving lives. I also included architecture for Pure Fun."

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    "It's been amazing seeing it grow and seeing others bring in Friendly Architecture from their world into the sub," Honor told Bored Panda. "It can be hard to find Friendly Architecture, but when I do, I feel so good about the world."

    Since Honor is an expert on the more positive side of architecture and design, we asked her for some of her favorite examples of friendly architecture from around the world. "What's amazing about the sub is finding that there are pockets of friendly architecture everywhere," she said said. "My favorites are hyper-local ideas (like the Dusseldorf bus stop) that could catch on elsewhere if they got the publicity and funding they need. There are the public defibrillators in Adelaide, Australia that can be operated by anyone at any time of day and canopy bridges for wildlife in Anaimalai Hills, India and Longview, Washington. Those are the posts that hope people see and think 'Wow, that could totally work in my neighborhood'."

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    "Others are major hits already," Honor explained. "Think Little Free Pantries and Curb Cuts, Buddy Benches and over and underpasses for animal populations. Some posts are much more site-specific like a light show in San Antonio that "repaints" the mission buildings as they appeared when painted, or the towers for Chimney Swifts that are placed along their migration routes. These are designs that I hope will inspire brand new projects. There are thoughtful, friendly designers and architects everywhere. Thank goodness!"

    #4

    Homeless Bench, Vancouver, Canada

    Homeless Bench, Vancouver, Canada

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    Laura Ketteridge
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This is so very much kinder than the measures designed to prevent homeless people sleeping on benches, or in doorways. It's bad enough people are sleeping rough, they need kindness.

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    When it comes to the benefits that friendly architecture can reap, Honor says, "Friendly architecture makes life better for all. And it responds to the moment. Cell phone lanes for pedestrians and the social distancing park in Brooklyn show that designers and planners can work together to make life better in the face of something new. Facilitating sharing is another great benefit of Friendly Architecture. In the USA, so many of us have so much, but the infrastructure to facilitate sharing isn't robust. Enter spots to share clothes, beach toys at the beach, electricity for phone charging and even tools for bike repair."

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    Lastly, Honor added, "Friendly Architecture is really hard to find! It's out there, but it hasn't caught people's attention the way that Hostile Architecture has. Still, I'm super impressed by how many members we have. Being a Friendly Architecture detective is extremely rewarding."

    #5

    Parent + Child Library Carrel, So You Can Do Your Research And Keep Your Little One Occupied. Fairfield Library, Virginia, USA

    Parent + Child Library Carrel, So You Can Do Your Research And Keep Your Little One Occupied. Fairfield Library, Virginia, USA

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    elsieairhead
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I'm glad this is here because I saw this in a negative "dystopian" post from BP in the past when it's a great idea.

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    Have you ever encountered a building with no wheelchair access or stairs that are so steep and narrow you have to focus on every single one or you’ll lose your footing? Whoever designed those spaces did not have the “friendly architecture” mindset. Maybe they should have taken a look at the Friendly Architecture subreddit before embarking on their projects because they surely would have found some inspiration there. 

    This online group has nearly 16k members at the moment, and is famous for celebrating buildings or public spaces that were designed in a way that “encourages people to interact with them”. Their about section states that structures shared on the page “may also be beautiful, accessible, supportive, helpful or keep people and other living things safe from harm”. And the group only has one rule: be friendly. A quick scroll through their community shows a variety of genius designs and spaces that are just begging to be greeted and invited over for dinner.

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    #6

    It's Not For People But It's Still Friendly

    It's Not For People But It's Still Friendly

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    IguanaCircusGirl2000
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I love how they put a screen on the manhole cover so that ducklings and other small animals cannot fall through.

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    While this page focuses mainly on architecture that is friendly in terms of inviting citizens to use it, there are a variety of ways that a space can be kind, including how it treats the environment. The more sustainable a structure is, the friendlier it is to everyone, including people, animals and the planet. To gain some insight on environmentally friendly architectural styles, we consulted a piece that Terri Briseno wrote for How Stuff Works.

    One genius eco-friendly housing solution some people have embraced is turning a space that was previously something else into housing units. For example, the Keetwonen student dorm complex in Amsterdam is comprised of former shipping containers that have been transformed into apartments. This is a great way to reduce, reuse and recycle and offers an affordable and innovative solution for students in need of a place to live. It’s a creative solution, but it definitely qualifies as a friendly one as well.  

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    #7

    They Put Rails Under The Benches In This Park So You Can Always Be In The Shadow

    They Put Rails Under The Benches In This Park So You Can Always Be In The Shadow

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    Downsizing and moving into a tiny house or small apartment is another great friendly solution to your housing needs. While it may take some adjusting to at first, living in a small space typically helps homeowners save much less on their utility bills, making this solution budget-friendly as well. This has become a popular route for many people living in large, crowded cities to take, but it's becoming more common all around the world. By using less resources in your home, the environment will thank you for this friendly gesture, and your wallet will thank you when it’s feeling fuller at the end of the month. 

    On a similar note, taking advantage of multi-family units can also be a great eco-friendly alternative to living in a single-unit home. According to a study sponsored by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, focusing on building multifamily and attached housing units is one of the best ways to minimize energy consumption in many communities. Spaces that share walls hold in heat and increase efficiency, so becoming more friendly and open-minded to sharing your space with neighbors might also help your family become more eco-friendly as well.

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    #8

    Pool And Water Slide, Egmont Højskolen ("Folk High School"), Western Denmark

    Pool And Water Slide, Egmont Højskolen ("Folk High School"), Western Denmark

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    #9

    In Case This Counts: Braille On The Rail To Describe The View

    In Case This Counts: Braille On The Rail To Describe The View

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    Charlotte
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Oh, you're blind? Touch this scalding rod of metal and we'll tell you what you're missing. You know, besides you fingerprints.

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    The way a space makes us feel can have a great impact on our mental and emotional states. And according to Teknion, there are several aspects architects need to consider when designing a “people friendly space”. The first step they suggest is being sure to incorporate nature. This can be done by allowing for ample natural light to flow through a space, using glass to define enclosed spaces to allow for a more open feel and making sure the windows have a view of trees, plants or the sky. Even the materials and colors in a space can be designed with nature in mind, utilisting organic shapes, peaceful colors and wood or stone elements. We tend to feel extremely at ease when surrounded by nature, so why shouldn’t we want to emulate that feeling when indoors?  

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    #10

    Sympathetic Architecture

    Sympathetic Architecture

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    #11

    Teetertotters Slotted Through The U.S.-Mexico Border Wall By Ronald Rael And Virginia San Fratello

    Teetertotters Slotted Through The U.S.-Mexico Border Wall By Ronald Rael And Virginia San Fratello

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    #12

    Turtle Tunnels In Japan, Protecting The Turtles Crossing Train Tracks And Stopping Trains From Derailing Due To Turtles!!

    Turtle Tunnels In Japan, Protecting The Turtles Crossing Train Tracks And Stopping Trains From Derailing Due To Turtles!!

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    Roborowski
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    At the end of the tunnel is a pizza to attract the turtles 🍕🐢 😉

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    Another method Teknion recommends for creating a friendly space is to make sure the design “promotes movement”. Particularly when it comes to an office space, they explain that the ideal layout will encourage organic casual meetings through open spaces, lounge chairs and sofas, attractive stairwells and low tables that allow for relaxed postures. Adjustable furniture that allows workers the option of whether they want to sit or stand can also be great in an office setting. Even having walls with writable areas or boards where colleagues can pin memos encourages people to get involved and feel like more of a community. They can share ideas face to face or on the wall, which provides one more reason to get up from their desks and take a walk every now and then. A smart designer makes sure that their space is friendly itself and inspires people to be friendly to one another.

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    #13

    Bioswale, Seattle Wa. (A Channel To Concentrate, Clean And Move Stormwater)

    Bioswale, Seattle Wa. (A Channel To Concentrate, Clean And Move Stormwater)

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    #14

    Wheelchair Accessible Gardening. Used For Garden Therapy, Rehab, Hospice. Developed In Douvres-La-Délivrande, France

    Wheelchair Accessible Gardening. Used For Garden Therapy, Rehab, Hospice. Developed In Douvres-La-Délivrande, France

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    Robert T
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Our local garden centre has started selling raised beds which would be suitable for a wheelchair user. I was looking at them as they would really help my back!

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    #15

    Crab Migration Bridge, Christmas Island, Australia

    Crab Migration Bridge, Christmas Island, Australia

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    Skipper Laine
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The person in charge of cleaning up after this will be very crabby indeed...

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    Another important feature of a friendly space is one that minimizes disruptions. Some people enjoy chatting and making small talk, but for others, these distractions can be frustrating and send certain individuals into sensory overload. It is best to have some places designated for chatter and discussions, while other places are reserved for peace and quiet. “As the world continues to urbanize and more people work longer hours indoors, often at a computer, it becomes ever more important to employ design to reduce stress, enhance creativity and improve mental and physical health,” Teknion explains. “We need design that connects us with nature, that supports our biological need to move and our emotional need to occasionally withdraw to think or rest as much as we need the means to draw people together and connect their working thoughts and ideas.”

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    #16

    Green Man+, A Card & Traffic Light System To Give People More Time To Cross At Intersections, Singapore

    Green Man+, A Card & Traffic Light System To Give People More Time To Cross At Intersections, Singapore

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    #17

    These Public Benches Are Reversible, So You Can Choose To Look At People, Or Boats

    These Public Benches Are Reversible, So You Can Choose To Look At People, Or Boats

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    #18

    Mini Door At Child's Doctor's Office, Neat Idea!

    Mini Door At Child's Doctor's Office, Neat Idea!

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    Another common theme celebrated in the Friendly Architecture page is places that are very accommodating for people with disabilities. Of course, wheelchair users and others with disabilities should not have problems visiting anywhere, but the unfortunate reality is that some spaces have not been designed with them in mind. That’s frustrating to hear when you realize that in the UK alone, there are over 13 million people living with disabilities. Architects have the power to make these individuals’ lives much easier or much harder, so it is vital that they ensure easy access and “friendly design” for everyone. As architect Ian Fulgar writes on his blog, “Accessibility in architecture improves cognition, self-esteem, and life satisfaction for those who live in these environments, potentially improving public health significantly. Individuals and organizations can benefit from accessible design practices, which boost productivity, foster creativity, and make it comfortable for people to participate in their communities.”

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    #19

    Old City, Jerusalem Added 4km Of Wheelchair-Accessible Routes In 2019 (And Cleared It With Unesco)

    Old City, Jerusalem Added 4km Of Wheelchair-Accessible Routes In 2019 (And Cleared It With Unesco)

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    Laura Ketteridge
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Brilliant. These changes make such a difference to the lives of wheelchair users.

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    #20

    Super-Accessible Waterfront, Sirens Beach, Greece

    Super-Accessible Waterfront, Sirens Beach, Greece

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    Alexandra Davis
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Another simple change to make a world of difference to people like me in wheelchairs. Like I said in the photo above, just because I'm in a wheelchair, doesn't mean I don't want to explore the world and go out. I wish these would appear on more beaches!

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    Ian goes on to note some famous examples of excellent architecture in terms of accessibility. One of which is the Hazelwood School in Glasgow, Scotland, which is actually featured on this list. The school was designed incorporating senses such as smell, taste and touch to create increased awareness for sensory impaired children and allow them to have greater independence than most buildings permit. The school was even the first in the UK to receive a DesignShare Honor Award and is one of the most renowned innovative learning institutions in the world.

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    #22

    In Asia Nobody Has To Worry About Falling Into The Subway Tracks

    In Asia Nobody Has To Worry About Falling Into The Subway Tracks

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    Lyrica Melody
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This is utter nonsense -- just because some cities in Asia have stations like these does not mean they all do. That's like claiming all highways in North America are underground because of Boston's Big Dig.

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    #24

    These Benches That Turn Into Tables

    These Benches That Turn Into Tables

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    RandomFrog(He/They️‍️)
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My aunt and uncle have these. It’s realy nice cuz while the kids play they can watch or the kids can rest on the bench but then for lunch we fold them down and can eat.

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    RMJM also notes on their website the importance of keeping accessibility in mind when designing a space. “But inclusive design does not refer exclusively to whole buildings, it also includes anything from appliances to furniture and interiors,” they explain. “It could be, for example, the case of gender-neutral public bathrooms or intuitive furniture for hearing-loss impaired people. While there are many discussions around the spaces designed for people with reduced mobility or visual impairments, the ones created for people who suffer from hear-loss are not as noticeable.”

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    “There are various considerations to make when designing a space for people with hear-loss impairments," they go on to note. "One of them is the layout of the room. Considering a wide or circular layout rather than linear allows all the participants to see each other, and thus it is possible to read each other’s speech. Ramps, graphic security elements and automatic doors are equally important to guarantee the safety of the users while walking and moving.”

    #25

    Hedgehog Highway (Dolly Parton Called These Out This Week), UK

    Hedgehog Highway (Dolly Parton Called These Out This Week), UK

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    #26

    Cover For Bicycle Saddle So It Doesn't Get Wet When It Rains

    Cover For Bicycle Saddle So It Doesn't Get Wet When It Rains

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    #27

    Modskool - Design Museum Winner For Best Architecture 2020, India

    Modskool - Design Museum Winner For Best Architecture 2020, India

    ModSkool is a school that is designed to be easily erected and dismantled in response to forced evictions of farming communities on the floodplains of the Yamuna river in India.
     
    First built in 2017 in less than three weeks by students, school staff, parents, and local volunteers, the school was dismantled one year later due to land-ownership issues. The new school, relocated further south, was held together with the form of weave used for a charpoy, a multifunctional piece of furniture traditionally used as a daybed.

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    Friendly design sometimes requires thinking outside of the box, but it is always worth it when a space becomes warm, inviting and accessible. We hope you're enjoying this list of people-friendly places and spaces, and we especially hope that wherever you live is full of infrastructure that could be featured here too. Be sure to keep upvoting your favorite pieces of design, so your fellow pandas see them too, and then let us know in the comments what the friendliest piece of architecture you've ever witnessed was. And if you'd like to see even more of these innovative pieces of design, you can check out the Friendly Architecture subreddit right here.

    #28

    Wall Of Kindness, Norwich, Vermont, USA

    Wall Of Kindness, Norwich, Vermont, USA

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    #29

    A Bus Stop With Swings

    A Bus Stop With Swings

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    #30

    Circular Footbridge Over Roundabout, Shanghai

    Circular Footbridge Over Roundabout, Shanghai

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    #31

    This Drinking Fountain Allows You To Gill Your Bottle, And Saves The Extra Water For Passing Dogs

    This Drinking Fountain Allows You To Gill Your Bottle, And Saves The Extra Water For Passing Dogs

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    Amber The bear
    Community Member
    2 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Ah yes, perfect spot to GILL your water bottle 😌 EDIT: That was sarcasm!!!

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    #32

    Australian Wheelchair Swing!

    Australian Wheelchair Swing!

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    Laura Ketteridge
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Fantastic. It's get seeing more spaces being accessible for people with disabilities.

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    #33

    Safe Haven Baby Boxes

    Safe Haven Baby Boxes

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    Deborah B
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Some US states are going to be needing a lot of these. :( Hope they build them, because when you make abortion inaccessable, infanticide and abandonment increase.

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    #34

    A Friendly Urban Cycle Path In Girona

    A Friendly Urban Cycle Path In Girona

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    #35

    This Gate Allowing Horses And Pedestrians Not Cars

    This Gate Allowing Horses And Pedestrians Not Cars

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    #36

    A Bridge Providing A Bench In The Fences In Shanghai

    A Bridge Providing A Bench In The Fences In Shanghai

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    #37

    Public Defibrillation Station, Adelaide, Australia

    Public Defibrillation Station, Adelaide, Australia

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    #38

    This Anti-Climbing Fence On The" S*icide Bridge "(Colloquially) In A Small Town England. There Are Also Signs With Suicide Hotlines On Them. Not A Fun Part Of Architecture But Definitely Helpful/Saving Lives

    This Anti-Climbing Fence On The" S*icide Bridge "(Colloquially) In A Small Town England. There Are Also Signs With Suicide Hotlines On Them. Not A Fun Part Of Architecture But Definitely Helpful/Saving Lives

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    Francis
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    i once planned those fences at a bridge . we had to be SUPER sensible about the topic. an agency that also runs a suicide hotline warned us: if the project becomes public before we're finished, there gonna be a lot of people jumping before we install the fences (because they gonna use the last chance they see to do it)

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    #39

    Amphibian Tunnel, Cycle Highway Of Eindhoven, Netherlands

    Amphibian Tunnel, Cycle Highway Of Eindhoven, Netherlands

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    Jyri Hakola
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Wonder how quickly also the cranes learns how to use these as food vending machines :D

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    #40

    Trash Cans For Cyclists (Blikvanger), Netherlands

    Trash Cans For Cyclists (Blikvanger), Netherlands

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    #41

    Solar Park Bench With USB Charging Ports

    Solar Park Bench With USB Charging Ports

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    #42

    Wheelchair Resting Spot On A Long Hill. Also A Bench In A Pinch

    Wheelchair Resting Spot On A Long Hill. Also A Bench In A Pinch

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    #43

    These Two Coin Lockers That Are Easily Accessible In A Wheelchair, Austria

    These Two Coin Lockers That Are Easily Accessible In A Wheelchair, Austria

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    Francis
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    i have to confess i'm learing about a lot of "little" problems for disabled people in this article... never thought about lockers not being useable for handicaped people...

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    #44

    Recessed "Pause Space" For Those With Asd Providing An Opportunity To Control The Amount Of Incoming Information, UK

    Recessed "Pause Space" For Those With Asd Providing An Opportunity To Control The Amount Of Incoming Information, UK

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    #45

    Earthships, Passive Solar Earth Shelters Around The World

    Earthships, Passive Solar Earth Shelters Around The World

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    #46

    Tiled Patches In Cracked Pavement, Lyon, France (By Ememem)

    Tiled Patches In Cracked Pavement, Lyon, France (By Ememem)

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    #47

    The Fruit Bus Stops Of Nagasaki Prefecture (Designed To Showcase The Agricultural Output Of The Region)

    The Fruit Bus Stops Of Nagasaki Prefecture (Designed To Showcase The Agricultural Output Of The Region)

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    #49

    The Tiles Around Our Apartment Complex Is Made Up Like The Enemies In Space Invaders, Sweden

    The Tiles Around Our Apartment Complex Is Made Up Like The Enemies In Space Invaders, Sweden

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    #51

    This Is One Of The More Common Architectural Tricks. This Kind Of "Gate" Stops Cars And Forces Cyclists To Stop Or Slow Down To Help Keep Pedestrians Save

    This Is One Of The More Common Architectural Tricks. This Kind Of "Gate" Stops Cars And Forces Cyclists To Stop Or Slow Down To Help Keep Pedestrians Save

    laDurchblick Report

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    Sandra Bartsch
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Awful for wheelchairs, tandems and bike trailers (also kiddy trailers), when built too close to each other. I‘ve been there in all the mentioned situations

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    #52

    Enzo: Outdoor Furniture Designed For The Museumsquartier In Vienna

    Enzo: Outdoor Furniture Designed For The Museumsquartier In Vienna

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    Cactus McCoy
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Now tear up some of that excessive pavement and plant some more plants. Might improve this.

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    #53

    Wine Windows, Mostly Florence, Italy, Originally For Plague And Now Reopened And Revived

    Wine Windows, Mostly Florence, Italy, Originally For Plague And Now Reopened And Revived

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    #54

    Sidewalk Hopscotch, Amsterdam (Photo: @marcovanhassel)

    Sidewalk Hopscotch, Amsterdam (Photo: @marcovanhassel)

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    #55

    Cycle Leaning Rail, Horsens, Denmark (So You Can Hold On While Waiting For The Light To Change)

    Cycle Leaning Rail, Horsens, Denmark (So You Can Hold On While Waiting For The Light To Change)

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    Doug
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Is this just so people don't have to put their foot down? I'm not sure the eyesore appearance of it vs. the convenience it provides is worth it.

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    #56

    Little Free Rocks, Shells And Toy Exchange, Siletz Bay, Oregon

    Little Free Rocks, Shells And Toy Exchange, Siletz Bay, Oregon

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    Deborah B
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This is great if you have a kid who picks up every rock and shell on the beach. "Now we leave them on the shelves for other people." Instead of carrying them all home.

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    #57

    Bat-Friendly Spacing In Bridges, Texas And Elsewhere

    Bat-Friendly Spacing In Bridges, Texas And Elsewhere

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    #58

    Outdoor Ping Pong Tables

    Outdoor Ping Pong Tables

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    theflyingcicero
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    In Vienna, Austria, there are some of these, too. Went there to teach my Afghan boys to teach them to play Ping Pong. We met a very charming older Chinese gentleman, who would really teach them to play.

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    #59

    "Restored By Light", Using Light To Recreate Frescoes On The Mission Buildings, San Antonio, Texas

    "Restored By Light", Using Light To Recreate Frescoes On The Mission Buildings, San Antonio, Texas

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    RandomFrog(He/They️‍️)
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    When I lived in San Antonio we probably went to the missions and the Alamo twice becuase it was so touristy and busy.

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    #60

    Hazelwood School, Glasgow, Scotland

    Hazelwood School, Glasgow, Scotland

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    David Andrews
    Community Member
    2 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    For anyone wondering, Hazelwood is a school specifically built for children with multiple sensory issues. The trail rail shown is part of the design to allow the children to navigate the building on their own

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    #61

    Towers For Chimney Swifts , Replacements For Hollow Tree And Chimney Nesting Sites, Various

    Towers For Chimney Swifts , Replacements For Hollow Tree And Chimney Nesting Sites, Various

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    #62

    Emergency Stopping Lane/Runaway Truck Ramp

    Emergency Stopping Lane/Runaway Truck Ramp

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    #63

    Curb Cuts With Tactile Paving - Great For Everyone!

    Curb Cuts With Tactile Paving - Great For Everyone!

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    Laura Ketteridge
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    They are really great, and allow people with sight problems to find the safer crossing points, as well as enabling wheelchair/walker users to make an easier transition. However, it doesn't make it easier for everyone. I find that when my hips or knees are acting up, the slight changes in position caused by the slope and dimples causes a lot of pain. It's great there are areas without the drop kerb and dimples so people like me can use them too.

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    #64

    Meditative Walking Labyrinth, Hogsback, South Africa

    Meditative Walking Labyrinth, Hogsback, South Africa

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    #65

    Public Bike Repair, With Bike Stand, UK, Oregon & Nebraska USA

    Public Bike Repair, With Bike Stand, UK, Oregon & Nebraska USA

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    #66

    I Just Today Noticed How Friendly The Parking Lot/Sidewalk Barrier Actually Is At A Local Gas Station. None Others I've Seen Like It

    I Just Today Noticed How Friendly The Parking Lot/Sidewalk Barrier Actually Is At A Local Gas Station. None Others I've Seen Like It

    No Curb. Allows for easy wheelchair/bike/disabled access at any point along the building. While there are disabled spots for parking, it makes sure its accessible anywhere. With the posts there rather than a curb, it prevents larger vehicles from sitting over the edge and lessening the walking space pedestrians and wheelchairs have.

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    #67

    These Benches Were Designed By Velopa So That Those With Walkers Could Park Them Discreetly And Still Be Part Of The Conversation. The Footrests And Large Armrests Are To Help People Get Up Again. (See R/Hostile For More Discussion)

    These Benches Were Designed By Velopa So That Those With Walkers Could Park Them Discreetly And Still Be Part Of The Conversation. The Footrests And Large Armrests Are To Help People Get Up Again. (See R/Hostile For More Discussion)

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    BluEyedSeoulite
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I get the appeal but you can do that with a normal bench, but on the side, and it is still accessible for people needing more space or to lay down

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    #68

    This Droste Effect Little Library At A Community Org, Washington Dc

    This Droste Effect Little Library At A Community Org, Washington Dc

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    Sharron Lindsay
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Our little village in the UK has repurposed the iconic red telephone box as a library and it does get used. I've got a couple of books to exchange for books I have at home. In December the library turns into a post box for letters to Santa.

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    #69

    "Do You Want Us Here Or Not," Art Seating By Shannon Finnegan

    "Do You Want Us Here Or Not," Art Seating By Shannon Finnegan

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    #70

    Cellphone Lane And No Cellphone Lane, Chongquing, China

    Cellphone Lane And No Cellphone Lane, Chongquing, China

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    Oerff On Tour
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This won't work. People glued to their phones won't see the markings on the street, because they are looking at the screen, *not* where they are walking.

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    #72

    Kassel Kerbs, Concave Curbs That Help Align Low-Floor Bus Wheels So Passengers Can Roll-On & Roll-Off

    Kassel Kerbs, Concave Curbs That Help Align Low-Floor Bus Wheels So Passengers Can Roll-On & Roll-Off

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    Francis
    Community Member
    2 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    they are mandatory in switzerland :) until the end of 2023 all bus stops (and tram and train stations) have to be accessible for everyone :) all new bus stops have curbs similar to these (Berner Bord or Zürich Bord)

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    #73

    If You're Going To Dry Lumber Anyway, Why Not? Vancouver, Bc

    If You're Going To Dry Lumber Anyway, Why Not? Vancouver, Bc

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    Erik Ivan
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Cool, but not for drying lumber, for several reasons: 1) fresh lumber leak sap and resin. You WILL ruin your clothes if you sit on it. 2) fresh lumber need to be layed up properly when it is sawn. 3) that structure is held together by something. If not, it would be a very dangerous place to be. 4) you do not put lumber in a park to dry out. You just don't. It makes the owner liable for anything that happens.

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    #74

    Pedal Bench, El Parque Del Retiro, Madrid. Photo: Felix Wong

    Pedal Bench, El Parque Del Retiro, Madrid. Photo: Felix Wong

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    #78

    Polite Of This Building To Not Distract From The Beautiful Sky

    Polite Of This Building To Not Distract From The Beautiful Sky

    bolderbikes Report

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    Tamsin Far
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Not sure if this friendly for birds.. hope they have taken measures to make it visible for them.

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    #80

    These Bollards Double As Chairs [bonus Car-In-Bike-Path In The Background]

    These Bollards Double As Chairs [bonus Car-In-Bike-Path In The Background]

    olythrowaway4 Report

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    Chris Kane
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Bollards are made to keep pedestrians safe from traffic. Making them into seats seems counterproductive.

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    #82

    Hand Sanitizer Station, Calgary, Canada. Photo By Sergei S. Scurfield

    Hand Sanitizer Station, Calgary, Canada. Photo By Sergei S. Scurfield

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    #83

    River Skerne Footbridge Before And After, Darlington, UK

    River Skerne Footbridge Before And After, Darlington, UK

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