Transforming streetscapes: Revitalising urban and pedestrian spaces with precast concrete

Councils are investing in physical streetscape upgrades to revitalise public spaces. In the post-COVID world, such initiatives are important to allow businesses to operate outdoors, enable community spaces for gatherings and events, and protect public spaces adjacent to busy roads from the threat of heavy vehicular impact. Carefully-designed street furniture can be utilised to help achieve these goals, creating a lively and safe atmosphere that engages the community.

What materials are best suited for the demanding design and performance requirements of public spaces? Architects and designers can utilise precast concrete to create street furniture that is aesthetically pleasing, functional and durable. No other modern construction material can readily assume all the forms, colors and textures that a designer can realise in concrete with the added utilitarian advantages in strength, endurance, and economy.

Concrete is ubiquitous in the built environment, and has been used for centuries. Precast concrete has become a popular solution for modern building across all sectors as it enables efficient and economical construction that withstands all weather conditions. However, designers may not be aware of the versatility of precast concrete and the design possibilities available when using this medium, especially for streetscape and public space applications.

In this whitepaper, we take a close look at the architectural benefits of concrete, especially precast concrete as a material solution for street furniture. We also cover what designers and architects need to know when designing with precast concrete.