The renovation works on Pérez Galdós avenue in Valencia are massively incorporating a new concept of urban furniture: the so-called 'sciatic seats'. A total of 44 units of this peculiar element will be installed.
These structures are not traditional seats but rather support points that allow users to lean while remaining standing. They are especially designed for the elderly, who may have difficulty sitting and standing up, and also for young people who prefer to wait standing but seek a more comfortable posture. Their location near bus stops suggests they are designed for short waits.
This design, which has evolved from simple asymmetric bars to wooden supports like those now being installed, is of recent proliferation. The name 'sciatic' comes from the ischium bone, part of the hip, which is one of the support points for the user. The benches are small, intended for a single person or, at most, two very close together.
In the city of Valencia, these 'seats' could already be found in places like the garden on Ruaya street or the Cedre garden, and had been incorporated into FGV stations such as Àngel Guimerà or Plaça d’Espanya. Now, the Pérez Galdós renovation marks their much more widespread arrival.
As part of the Pérez Galdós - Giorgeta renovation, a total of 389 benches and chairs are being installed, along with 152 bike racks, 114 litter bins, and 131 planters.
