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Longest BenchAn incredible new seaside <a href="http://www.inhabitat.com/2010/07/21/phytobench-public-seating-that-repairs-damaged-ecosystems/" target="_blank">public bench</a> in Littlehampton, West Sussex was recently crowned the "Longest Bench in the UK", and it may soon be able to claim the title of "Longest Bench in the world". Designed by <a href="http://www.studioweave.com/" target="_blank">Studio Weave</a>, the Longest Bench meanders and curves along Littlehampton’s beachside promenade for 324 meters and can seat up to 300 people. Built out of recycled steel and <a href="http://inhabitat.com/2010/05/11/andre-joyau%E2%80%99s-reclaimed-wood-furniture-tells-beautiful-narrative-stories/" target="_blank">reclaimed hardwoods</a>, the seaside bench is reminiscent of a beach boardwalk, but the twists, loops and dips make it playful and fun.1
The Longest BenchCurrently the bench extends for 324 meters, making it the longest bench in the UK.2
The Longest BenchThere are plans to extend the bench up to 621 meters, which would make it the world's longest bench.3
The Longest BenchThe bench was inspired by wooden boardwalks as well as a charm bracelet. Here is one of the shelters, which acts as a "charm" on the long and twisty bench "chain".4
The Longest BenchThe shelters are made from bronze-coated steel and provide shade as well as an entrance to the beach.5
The Longest BenchReclaimed tropical hardwood was salvaged from landfills and old seaside groynes to create the thousands of slats used for the bench top.6
The Longest BenchThe colored slats are made from stainless steel box sections dipped in Nylon-11, a polymer enamel.7
The Longest BenchThe bench was designed by Studio Weave in collaboration with Arun District Council; Jane Wood and Sophie Murray, East Beach Cafe; Adams Kara Taylor; Jackson Coles; and Millimetre.8
The Longest BenchThe first phase of the project was completed and opened to the public on July 30th.9
The Longest BenchSome of the bench slats are engraved with individuals names who donated to the project.10
The Longest BenchThe Littlehampton beach is backed by a strip of green and then a development. The new bench sits on the promenade between them and backs up to a red brick wall that extends along the beach.11
The Longest BenchDiagram showing how the bench loops insides the shelters.12
The Longest BenchOriginal inspiration for the seaside bench comes from traditional beach boardwalks.13
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