Geneva Round Bench

Geneva Round Bench project by BURRI public elements®
The largest round bench in Switzerland Design: Julien Descombes from Atelier Descombes Rampini SA

On 7 June 2016, the renovated and redesigned Place du Rhône in Geneva was opened to the public. At the heart of the construction project is a custom-built round bench with a diameter of 29 metres, which invites passers-by and tourists to linger and to enjoy the views of the lake. BURRI public elements AG from Glattbrugg in Switzerland (construction planning, production and assembly) came out on top for the project, which was put out to public tender by the City of Geneva.

Custom products for customers with sophisticated demands
In the course of development, the participants were confronted with numerous questions: What material to use? How can a round bench composition of this scale be arranged to include different seating options? And how best to measure the whole thing? Ultimately, the contractors found solutions to these problems through close cooperation and across barriers of language and professional specialities. For the wood, a decision was made for local steam bent ash from the Swiss company 3R, while Julien Descombes and his team designed a bench that was gently inclined, enabling seating options for a range of needs. Measurement of the foundations was carried out by BURRI using a special 3D laser – an unusual but useful method that arose from the unique circumstances of the contract.

Individuality as a calling card
From June, the city of Geneva can claim a new landmark. The redesign of the square is accompanied by a traffic diversion, which can no longer pass through or park on the square. Flanked by famous brands and upscale boutiques, the square sets a certain high standard, of which all involved parties were more than aware. For example, assembly of the entire installation was conducted by BURRI in a single day, whilst having to contend with over 1,400 different types of bench slats. In the end, what remains is great satisfaction: at a successful realisation for the City of Geneva, and for BURRI and Descombes/Rampini, satisfaction at the excellent cooperation. As for how passers-by will embrace the giant round bench, the reception is sure to be equally positive.

Materialisation
Square steel tubing, curved welds, galvanised
Wood: Swiss ash, steambent with clear lacquer oil sealant

Dimensions
Diameter of 29m with more than 1,400 bench slats of varying types
Total: ca. 2000kg

Installation
Adjustable feet dowelled to cast concrete

Atelier Descombes Rampini