Urban design is a part of our everyday lives, and we’re so used to it that it can easily blend into the background. Let’s not forget that living in the city is exhausting, fighting for space with tall buildings, commercial shops, and billboards. However, if we observe our surroundings, we are bound to find unique designs in the world. No matter how many times we pass certain features on our daily walks, everything can become a new experience.
Some designs are so strange that they’ll make you wonder how another human managed to come up with something so unusual. Others are fascinating because they have a story behind them, represent something meaningful in history, or are technologically advanced. To celebrate the world of urban design, we’ve gathered one-of-a-kind structures from all over the world to show you. Who knows, you might find something in your country that you’ve missed before.
Enjoy the City by Renting a Bike
It’s always a good thing to enjoy your city, and at the same time, keep yourself healthy. In Melbourne, renting a bike is a popular and cost-effective choice for budget travelers and bike riders of all abilities. Renting a bike can deliver you to some of the most popular destinations in Melbourne, such as the beaches of Port Phillip Bay, Long Bay Promenade, and even Hosier Lane.
If you feel like exploring more on your own, Melbourne also has hundreds of kilometers worth of off-road trails to explore. There’s something for everyone at such an affordable price. So, grab your helmet and get cruising around on a bike today!
Let’s Make Some Magic
What’s more magical than a bird flying out of a magician’s hat? A disappearing table. Of course, it does not vanish into thin air. There’s a lever that you can use to make it disappear. Kids love to spend time in this area, eating and talking with their friends. Of course, messing with the lever is on their to-do list as well.
Now, with this lever’s help, you can enjoy a new experience every day with your friends and family. Enjoy a magic show without all the expense of buying a ticket and going to the theater. No one will judge you if you’re 25 years old and still amazed by this, so don’t worry.
You Will Never Forget
Let’s face it – we easily forget things as we age. It’s part of reality, and people accept it. Some people even use it as an excuse. If we want something tangible to help us remember important events, most of us will buy a calendar and stick it on the fridge.
As you can see in the photo, the elevator has the number 3 on its door. As it turns out, the establishment owner designed it to help the people remember what floor they parked their cars on. Before you head in to explore the shops, this elevator makes sure you actively take a moment to remember where your car is parked. How thoughtful!
Let It Dry
Have you ever been in a situation where, for some reason, you unknowingly sat on a wet bench? Many people will agree that it is one of the most uncomfortable and disgusting feelings. What if there were a bench that always had a dry spot for you?
When you turn the lever, this bench will reveal a dry and clean side. You don’t have to wait for it to dry anymore. The bench takes care of everything. This bench is perfect for people who live in a wet, rainy country.
Sprinkle the Dirt Away
Aside from Korean pop idols and incredible food, South Korea is known for its cleanliness. Koreans are obsessed with keeping everything clean, and no, that is not a bad thing. Because of this, they have created many inventions to satisfy their will to keep their surroundings clean.
People living in South Korea will never have problems with dirt sticking in their shoes because they have these sprinklers that will eliminate dirt, mud, and any other contaminants from the road. A clean environment helps maintain good health for those living in it.
Are You Lost?
Are you scared of being lost in a new place? Too shy to ask for directions? If so, the people who created this map at the bus stop are a blessing for travelers like you. If you’re in a hurry, it’s always helpful to have a guide at your disposal.
Imagine you are traveling to an unknown city with no map or GPS. You walk into a bus shelter and find a map of the place you are coming to. It might not be as good as Google, but it will guide you in this new and unfamiliar place.
San Francisco’s Hidden Attraction
There’s a lot of attractions that you can visit in San Francisco. You can pay a visit to the Golden Gate Bridge, take a tour of Alcatraz Island, or stop by Pier 39, and that’s just the beginning! There’s plenty more for you to see and do in this city by the bay.
Have you heard about San Fran’s MeetWalls? They’re a unique attraction that you will want to add to your must-see list. MeetWalls are an art installation project in which you stand in front of it, wait for the sensors to detect your presence, then the wall will connect you visually with someone on the other side. What a way to make friends, do you agree?
Let’s Get Physical
Working out in the gym costs a lot. On the other hand, doing some exercise inside your home is a bit uninspiring for some people. To make the workout more interesting, you might want to try exercising outdoors. It helps you burn more calories, but it also enables you to get rid of stress. By exercising outside your home, you can enjoy the environment around you.
Of course, you can do running, biking, and many more activities, but have you tried visiting your community park? There is exercising equipment in many community parks around the world, just like in the picture. It’s free, the air you breathe is fresh, and most importantly, you can do this exercise while getting to know your neighbors.
Starlight on the Ground
Most people enjoy gazing up at the stars to relieve stress after a long day. It’s not uncommon for people to say that starlight is the best thing they’ve ever seen. Some people say that it reminds them of their homes, their family camping trips, and other happy times in their lives.
The mayor in this city created starlight on the road because the road was very dark and dangerous to walk on at night. The mayor thought that people would feel safer if he made this illusion, and it worked. People enjoy biking and strolling over these magical pathways every night.
Bring Out Your Inner Child
Swings bring out many childhood memories, which is why some people will try to use them, even if they’ve grown too big to safely do so. The excitement it brings is a thousand times better than any other ride. It is a fun way of entertaining oneself, and it is usually more than enough for some people to be filled with child-like wonder.
Just look at this swing installed at a bus stop – what a way to spend your time waiting for your bus to arrive. You can just ride the swing, feel the breeze, and enjoy the moment while it lasts. If you want to bring out your inner child, this is a great way to do it.
Low Battery?
This is a common problem for most people, but it can become a big inconvenience if you are without power for too long. Today, the easiest way to prevent this issue is by using a power bank. It would be wise to purchase one with enough juice to charge your cell phone multiple times.
What if you forgot to bring one and you badly needed your phone or laptop? The person responsible for this table’s design truly understood what most people need. With the solar panel, you can charge your phone while researching or just vibing with your friends.
Motivate Yourself
Just looking at the stairs can make some people nauseous. While it’s exhausting to think about how far you still have to climb, it’s important to keep moving and climbing, and so long as it’s done in moderation, stairs are one of the best exercises you can do for your body and mind.
We know the impossible is possible because we see it every day. Look closely at the photo above. It has measurements that show how many calories you’ve burned after conquering each step. It’s a great way to keep a person motivated to lose weight.
Great Support
Norway has been considered one of the best countries to live in for many years. This thoughtful method for supporting cyclists is just one of many reasons why Norway is such a wonderful country. Cycling is a good way to keep yourself fit, but it’s tiring at times.
Norwegians don’t have to worry about that because they can rest using this angled platform. Trondheim, one of Norway’s cities, invented this to help cyclists and people who use scooters relax for a bit and allow this platform to push them up the hill.
Nature and Design
There’s something about greenery that makes you feel alive. Somehow, it’s easier to relax when you’re surrounded by plants. Greenery is perfect for when you need to do some thinking because plants make people calm. Also, it’s wonderful to enjoy the earthy smell from the plants around you.
Take a look at the photo. At first glance, you’ll notice its simplicity. The structure is unique. When you look at it from the back, it seems like a garden devouring something, but when you look in front, you’ll be amazed to discover that it’s a bench.
Free Dining
Want to dine out but don’t have enough money to pay for a cafe or restaurant? Don’t fret. In this municipality, they’ve taken care of their constituents on another level. They built a free dining table and chair for them to use.
You would imagine that these tables and chairs will get destroyed after a few years. Fortunately, the municipality promises to maintain its beauty by repainting the chairs and replacing the wooden panels. We can all agree that this place is one of the most hospitable cities in the world.
Blossoming Flower
One of the best designs so far. The vibe is so romantic and expensive. What’s more exciting is that the place is free, so you can enjoy it even more. Yes, it’s always better when it’s free. This structure that looks like a flower is incomparable in its beauty.
The temperature in Israel is always high. People usually wear light-weight shirts because of the enormous heat. So, they came up with this idea. This flower structure is not only used to produce light but also to distribute cold air to people passing by. What do you think? Isn’t it a brilliant idea?
Little Helper
We all know that technology has been evolving through the years. We’ve seen robots as waiters and receptionists, but did you know about the new robot nurse? If not, then this will blow your mind. Robots are truly one of the best inventions that human beings created.
While they don’t act like human beings, nurse robots are capable of helping medical professionals with their tasks. Just think about this: You’ll have a helping hand that never gets tired. How cool is that? The nurse robot helps distribute medicines to patients, pass important files, and do other simple tasks.
A Giant Slide Inside the Mall
Slides are supposed to reside in parks and playgrounds, right? Well, this mall decided it should be allowed to get in on the fun, installing a massive slide for people to use instead of the escalators if they wish.
It’s scary when you look at the picture, but for some people, it means adventure. You might get a feeling of uncertainty, but it’s worth a try. Just remember not to bring your grocery bags and boxes with you when you try this one.
Upgraded Parking Area
There are many parking lots in the world. In reality, looking for empty parking spaces is burdensome. If you are not lucky, you might end up wasting your time and draining your energy trying to locate one. Unlike any other parking area in your city, this one has a superb vehicle management system.
If you look at the picture, the colors beside the vehicles have meaning. If you happen to be here, look for the green lights because they indicate that a parking space is available. In contrast, a red light means it’s unavailable. Scorpio Automation did an excellent job, and we can only hope for more of the same in the future.
A Safe Haven for Book Lovers
Who gets excited by visiting a library to read a book or a book shop to buy one? For book lovers, these places are sacred. Books offer an escape from the world, allowing you to be taken away from your worries and problems and transported to far-off places.
Imagine seeing this collection of books on your way home from a tiring day. You’d be overjoyed. Book worms will surely enjoy this ride. Open a book, and you’ll be in for a surprise.
Helpful Technology
We know that technology has made life easier in many ways. We can now order food, find a date, or buy clothes without having to set foot outside our house. Even compared to all these amazing inventions, this one is extra special.
Londoners are fortunate to have this innovation on their streets. When a passerby passes by, this prototype recognizes their needs by connecting with their smartphone. This woman, for example, is visually impaired, and when she walks past the prototype, the light from the streetlamps is adjusted, the crosswalk gives her more time to walk across, and other elements of the built environment shift to suit her needs.
Recycling at Its Finest
Sometimes, we feel tired of separating our trash. and we start to wonder, “what’s the point?” It’s such a small thing for us to do, and yet nothing changes. For one, the trash crisis affects the whole globe, and every country has come together to find solutions and reduce waste.
This AI Technology does not tolerate that attitude. It will block your attempt of throwing general waste in with recyclable waste or vice versa. Not only that, it will crush the garbage to make more room for more trash. It’s a one-of-a-kind approach for citizens to become more conscious of their actions.
Enjoy the Music
If you were not amazed by the map at the bus stop, then perhaps this will do it – a bus shelter that will let you play your favorite song while waiting for your bus. Yes, you read that right!
Listening to music helps you stay motivated and be more productive, so why not have a place where you can do this while commuting to work? That’s what we call thinking outside of the box! When you have this in your town, waiting for your bus will never be dull.
Not Your Traditional Crosswalk
Crosswalks are found in intersections and other places where pedestrian and vehicular traffic volumes are high. They are designed to support the safety of pedestrians and drivers alike, but some crosswalks are more intelligent than others.
In Nanjing, China, they upped their game by installing a glowing zebra crossing. It seems like such a small thing, but really, it’s about cooperation and team spirit. This smart crosswalk alerts drivers to ease off the gas ahead of time by flashing lights. Its purpose is to assist people in crossing the road safely and easily. It makes our streets safer to stroll on, which we all want for our children.
Relax in Comfort
Do you want to spend time sitting comfortably outside? In Enfield Town, there is a place you can go and sit comfortably. Fountain Island, Enfield, is a new place that you might want to visit. This new landmark will attract tourists looking for a relaxing day out and residents seeking peace with their families.
If you’re exhausted from sightseeing, you can sit and stretch your feet on these benches. Don’t worry. Residents are used to that, so don’t feel ashamed when you try it for the first time. From the looks of it, Enfield nailed the development of their town.
Literal Restroom
Restrooms are a public necessity, and they serve a very important function. A well-maintained and stocked restroom will provide a space for individuals to relieve themselves and then check on their appearance.
However, there are downsides to public restrooms. One of these is when the public keeps knocking on your door while you’re in the middle of doing your thing; it’s upsetting. However, it doesn’t have to be this way. When you enter a stall in the bathroom pictured above, the light above will turn red, signaling someone is inside. When you walk out, the light will automatically change to green. How convenient!
Engineers in the Building
Wayfair Canada has a unique and functional interior design. It’s no surprise because it’s where many engineers work, and engineers tend to love finding a blend of beauty and functionality. Just look at the photo below, and you’ll understand what we mean.
Imagine working in a company where most of your colleagues are artistic and inventive. You’d feel happy seeing the new creations filling your office on a weekly basis. It would be so exciting coming to work because the atmosphere would be inspiring.
Helping Hand
Riding a bicycle has a lot of health benefits, but it can be intimidating for new riders. If you’re interested in decreasing your carbon footprint and getting some exercise, there’s no better form of transportation than bicycling.
The only problem is that it takes time before you arrive at your destination. In Stuttgart, cyclists are allowed to take their bikes on the train. Look at the picture above – it’s convenient if you’re exhausted and want a break, but you need to keep moving.
Flower Bud Chair
At first, you’d think that this was just street art, but those buds are actually chairs. In Holland, locals can enjoy this cute yet creative flower bud chair while waiting for their bus to arrive. The design is superb. Even the spaces between the chairs are accurate.
Furthermore, you can enjoy the smell of nature while relaxing in your chair. It’s a great way to rest from the buzz of the city. All you have to do is to pull the petals apart, and voila, you have a chair.
Another Charging Area
Mobile phones are a necessity for most people. They can’t function properly without it because they do everything from their phones, such as take photos, research, play music, and communicate with other people. No wonder most of us have one.
However, you can’t keep your phone functioning if you don’t charge it. If your battery is low and you’re out in public, you can visit one of these Soofa benches installed at Harvard Square, Danehy Park, Fresh Pond, and Central Square. They let you charge your phone using solar panels.
Solar Panels Do the Work
If the solar panel charging bench is not enough, then try visiting this solar panel tree. You can charge your gadgets, enjoy the shade, and refill your water bottle. It’s three in one! Paris is ahead of the game when it comes to things like this.
Paris, France is one of the best travel destinations for most people, especially couples. We all know how romantic the Eiffel Tower is at night. The city has added to its beauty with these solar trees. Also, don’t worry if you don’t have bottled water because you can drink from one of the fountains.
IBM’s Smart Design
Can you name a company that makes ads that are genuinely useful? IBM is the only one we know of. The ad below is from their “IBM’s Smart Ideas for Smarter Cities” campaign. Look at the picture, and you’ll see how smart and creative their employees are.
The ad can be used as shelter from the rain. How crazy is that? It’s useful to hide from the sun during the day, and of course, when the rain is pouring. We could surely use some of this innovative thinking in other cities.
Concert in the Street
We often see people busking in the street with their instruments and amplifiers. It’s not a new view, but did you know that there’s a place where you can do that without any speakers? Yes, there’s a place you can go where pure talent is all you need to shine.
The disc in the picture works as an amplifier to anyone standing before it. There’s no auto-tune feature, so you will need talent if you want to make a good impression on pedestrians! You can visit the Living Innovation Zone near Market Street in San Francisco and try it out for yourself.
Let’s Play Pong
Getting stuck at a crosswalk is quite annoying, especially if you are in a hurry. Some people may feel a bit bored standing there waiting for the green light to appear. In Germany, waiting for the green light is not a problem.
Why? Because Germany installed this street pong to entertain them while waiting. Tap on the machine, and it’ll show you a list of arcade games that you can play. Make sure not to miss the green light when it turns, or you’ll have to wait a little longer. But that shouldn’t be a problem, don’t you think?
Hammocks on the Street
Do you think street pong is excessive? Wait till you see these hammocks installed in the street. The local government initially planned to install benches. In the end, they went with hammocks instead.
You may think, a hammock in the street? That’s a bit too much. However, it’s comfortable and relaxing. You can do some yoga if you want, rest for a bit, or just swing like a child. Just be careful not to fall.
Charging Bench
Yes, another charging bench on the list. By now, it’s clear that people cannot live without their phones. If they could, we wouldn’t have seen so many innovative charging areas on this list. Steora designed this one, and it’s a charging bench with a bit of a twist.
If we hear about a charging bench, we automatically imagine a bench that can charge our gadgets. Well, that may be true, but unlike other charging benches, you can use this bench as a repair station with a complete set of tools available for you. Also, it offers an ambient light while you are waiting for your ride to arrive.
Large Hat
Not everyone who goes to the beach wants to get a tan. Some people like to enjoy looking at the beach and listening to the calming waves. However, to do that, you have to be exposed to the sun.
This huge green hat will save you from getting burned. You can fit two people in one hat. For those who love taking pictures, this is the perfect spot to take your selfies. Now, we can say goodbye to sunburns.
Dream of Car Owners
It’s a nightmare to see your car full of dents and scratches when you return to it in the parking lot. The sight of that would upset any car owner. So, the French created something that could resolve that problem. Below, you can see their simple yet creative solution.
This soft hanging barrier can do the trick. You won’t have to worry about a surprise scratch on your car when you come back from grocery shopping because there’s a barrier that will protect it. We can only hope more parking areas adopt this kind of barrier in the future.
Folding Balcony
Do you want a balcony but lack the space to install it? If you’re set on having a balcony, why not try this folding option? It is powered by a Cabrio System that will allow you to convert a window into a balcony.
You can enjoy fresh air in the morning, soak in some vitamin D from the sun, and then watch the stars at night. If you’re searching for convenience, then this one's for you. Don’t forget to bring snacks if you’re stargazing.
Perfect Hangout
If you love the outdoors, you’ll adore this new hangout area. Instead of going to the mall, watching movies, or eating at restaurants, you can try these safety nets for free. If you’re short on money, then this is the place to go.
Gather all your friends, and make memories in this place. You can spend your time talking to them, eating pizza, and just relaxing. You can remove your shoes, too, if you want to feel right at home. The best thing to do is to enjoy this place with your friends.