SegoStop

User-centered bus stop seating solution

This project focused on redesigning bus stop seating in Segovia, a historic city in Spain with a predominantly elderly population. Through interviews, field research, and prototyping, we identified discomfort, weather exposure, and uneven terrain as key challenges. The final proposal was a modular, weather-resistant bench system attached to existing bus stops, adaptable to varied terrain, and designed with ergonomics in mind.

Problem

Segovia’s bus stop infrastructure lacks adjustable, accessible seating, especially for elderly residents. Harsh weather and uneven terrain create additional barriers to usability.

Research & Insights

68% of surveyed users were over 60 years old
Key pain points: discomfort, exposure to weather, lack of stability
Existing solutions failed to adapt to varied terrain

Personas

👵 Maria, 72

Primary needs: Stable, sheltered seating close to the bus stop

Lives 15 minutes from the most affordable grocery store
Uses the bus service 3-4 times weekly for errands and doctor visits
Has mild arthritis, making standing for long periods painful
Concerned about slipping during rainy weather
Values predictability and reliability in public services

Frustrations:

Lack of bus stop seating makes commuting harder at her age

👨‍🦳 Luis, 65

Primary needs: Ergonomic seating made to withstand changing weather conditions

Recently retired teacher who uses public transit daily
Travels across town to visit grandchildren and the community center
Has lower back pain that worsens with long periods of standing
Appreciates thoughtful urban design that respects all citizens and doesn’t break down within a year of construction

Frustrations:

Lack of comfortable bus stop seating makes it harder to avoid severe back pain

Benchmarking showed a lack of modular, terrain-adaptable designs in small European cities. Opportunity to set a precedent for an inclusive urban seating.

Solution Concept

A modular, weather-resistant bench designed for placement at every bus stop, adaptable to varying terrain.

Value Proposition

Accessibility and comfort for Segovia: Ergonomic, adaptable bus stop seating designed to support elderly residents with mobility challenges, blending modern functionality with respect for the city’s historic charm.

🤝

Inclusive Design

Prioritizes elderly and mobility-impaired users
Seating accessibility reduces physical strain from standing or curb sitting
Height and angles optimized for easy sitting/standing

🧩

Modular System

Adaptable to varied terrain and locations
Scalable for city-wide implementation
Flexible configurations based on location needs
Customizable for different transit environments

🌱

Sustainable Solution

Weather-resistant, durable materials (ideal for Segovia’s changing climate)
Low maintenance requirements
Cost-effective long-term operation

Design Process

Research → Concept Sketches → Initial Prototyping → Prototype Development → Final Refinement

Key Decisions

Production

A modular four-piece seat with replaceable, customizable elements that adapt seamlessly to bus stop variations.
Durable material usage (poly lumber and steel) ensures weatherproofing and comfort.
Rounded corners eliminate injury risk points.

Implementation

Fastened to the bus stop sign itself rather than to the irregular cobblestone pathways, ensuring structural integrity and uniformity.
Secured into place through a locking system, preventing theft or destruction.
Potential concept for an extended weather-proof canopy, easily lifted by staff from the seat of the product.

Final Outcome

My Contributions

User research and interviews
Ideation and initial sketches, and prototypes
Assisted with prototype testing and refinement
Collaborated on final pitch

Potential Next Steps…

1:1 prototype creation, followed by pilot installation in Segovia, and potential expansion to nearby municipalities.

Next Project

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