The intersection of technology, history and community
Bench X is a 3D printed concrete object located in the historical centre of Kutná Hora. It draws inspiration from the Gothic sculpture, which it transforms into elegant, ergonomic curves. Offering three separate seating areas for stillness and contemplation, a built-in planter brings greenery to the city. The ‘X’ shape symbolically refers to Theatre X10, which initiated its creation on the occasion of its 10th anniversary.
The competition jury was impressed not only by the aesthetics and technical innovation of the design, but above all by its ability to create a space for community sharing and care for the surroundings. Bench X is thus not only a piece of urban furniture, but also an impulse for dialogue about the importance of public spaces.
International acclaim alongside world names
Each year, the SIT Furniture Design Award recognises the best furniture, interior and public design from around the world. Among this year's winners are big names such as Foster + Partners, Zaha Hadid Architects and ACPV Antonio Citterio & Patricia Viel. The success of Bench X places Czech design among the world's top designers.
Collaboration across disciplines
The Bench X project was created in close collaboration between academia, city government, architects and cultural organisations. Its implementation took place in the historical centre of Kutná Hora, where the benches serve as a place for rest, cultural gatherings and care of public greenery.
Collaborators in realisation:
- Klokner institute CTU in Prague
- Kutná Hora municipality
- The Divadlo X10 cultural organisation and OLDstars on the ROAD
- CASUA architectural studio
Basic information on Bench X projects:
- Authors: Kateřina Goryczka, Oto Melter
- Locality: Havlíčkovo náměstí 7, Kutná Hora, Česká republika
- Coordinates: 49.948631, 15.268108
- Realisation: september 2024
- Client: Divadlo X10, OLDstars on the ROAD
- Photo: Tomáš Rubin
- Award: SIT Furniture Design Award 2025 – winner in Public Park & Public Area Furniture category
More information and photos about the award can be found here: https://www.sitaward.com/winners/sit/2025/687/0/