Sineu Graff has created the “PODIUM” range of inclusive, durable, and innovative urban furniture for the 2024 Paris Olympics’ Village des Athlètes, designed to be universally accessible and sustainable.
Sineu Graff, a renowned French manufacturer with over 50 years of expertise in urban furniture, has taken on the significant challenge of designing the outdoor spaces for the Village des Athlètes for the 2024 Paris Olympics. The result is “PODIUM,” a cutting-edge range of inclusive urban furniture that emphasizes active design and accessibility, ensuring it meets the needs of both current and future generations.
The ambitious €2 million project leverages the talents of three experts: Clément Willemin of Agence Wald, Alexandre Moronnoz, and Philippe Moreau & Ricardo Leone of Tactile Studio. Together, they have crafted a series of furniture pieces that embody the spirit of the Olympics—excellence, diversity, and athletic prowess—while being universally accessible.
“PODIUM” includes various configurations and types of urban furniture such as benches, tables, and lounge chairs, each designed with inclusivity in mind. Features like higher seating, double armrests, softened edges, and multi-sensory information systems cater to a wide range of users, including those with physical disabilities. This thoughtful approach extends to facilitating physical exercises and relaxation, making the furniture suitable for users of all ages and abilities.
The furniture is built to last, using robust materials like 10mm thick steel and durable hardwood, ensuring it can withstand high usage and varied weather conditions. Additionally, the modular design allows for future adaptations without significant investment, highlighting a commitment to sustainability.
This project underscores Sineu Graff’s dedication to innovative, sustainable urban design.
By integrating durable, recyclable materials and ensuring that all wood is sourced from well-managed forests, the company meets high environmental standards and is certified by FSC and PEFC.
Sineu Graff’s inclusive design approach is not new. The company’s prior projects, such as the award-winning Banc Refuge®—a public bench that also serves as a habitat for insects—exemplify their commitment to biodiversity and ecological integration.
As a testament to their innovative prowess, Sineu Graff has also been recognized with the Janus de la Cité 2023 award for their TANGO collection, in collaboration with designer Cécile Planchais. This ongoing drive for creativity and sustainability cements Sineu Graff’s role as a pioneer in urban space development.
The “PODIUM” range for the Village des Athlètes is more than just furniture; it is a forward-thinking initiative that reflects Sineu Graff’s vision of accessible, inclusive, and sustainable urban environments, ensuring that the spirit of the 2024 Olympics lives on in the hearts and spaces of future generations.
