Escofet 1886 / Seating
The Garonne Collection by Escofet 1886
Three backless benches in cast concrete with an acid-etched surface for urban public spaces. The receding base makes each element appear to float above its shadow.
Three backless benches in cast concrete, each with a different seat profile: from recessed for children to raised for those who find it difficult to stand. The collection is compatible and can be supplemented with timber seating elements from Escofet 1886, creating a varied seating line suited to school grounds, town squares and neighbourhood parks.
Inspired by the course of the river
The Garonne collection by Escofet 1886 comprises three modular backless benches in cast concrete, designed by Escofet_lab. The three model names refer to places along the River Garonne: from Aran, high in the Pyrenees, through Toulouse to Bordeaux on the Atlantic coast.
Each model carries the curves a river leaves in stone: the upper surfaces are rounded, the base recedes and disappears into its own shadow. This gives the solid concrete a lightness that does not weigh down the space.
The three models are built modularly: side by side they form a long seating line, apart from each other they each hold their own presence in the space. The collection suits both a rigorous urban composition and a freer arrangement on an open square.
The concrete elements are also suited to combination with timber seating. Combined with the Universe series from Escofet 1886, timber add-on elements that attach to the concrete base, the result is a seating line that combines the warmth of wood with the durability of concrete. Two photographs on this page show that combination in a project context.
As a backless outdoor concrete bench, the Garonne is a logical choice for street furniture on school grounds, town squares and neighbourhood parks. Three models with different seat profiles make it possible to assemble a range of seating elements in a single tender that serves a diverse public: from children at play to those who have difficulty standing.
What sets the Garonne collection apart
Cast concrete with character
The benches are cast in concrete with an acid-etched and hydrophobically treated surface. This finish reflects light evenly, makes the surface water-repellent and retains its quality in rain, frost and intensive use.
Modular by design
The three models share the same external dimensions and can be combined with one another. An arrangement with varying seat heights side by side offers a range of postures and accessibility options within a single consistent line, and gives children room for their own use and imagination.
Freestanding or anchored
The models rest on the paving or are anchored with two bolts in the foundation. This choice is adapted to the location: from temporary arrangements to permanent installations in busy areas.
Recycled concrete available
Alongside the standard concrete mix, recycled concrete is available as an alternative. This strengthens the sustainability case for clients working with criteria for the circular economy.
Where the Garonne collection belongs
School grounds and neighbourhood squares
On a school ground or neighbourhood square, children and adults are side by side, each with different needs for seat height and posture. The Garonne collection serves that mixed public through three models with varying seat profiles. The choice of seven colours makes the benches recognisable accents in the space: a colour that reflects the school identity or sparks children's imagination. Its solid concrete construction withstands the intensive daily use that naturally follows in these places.
Town squares and pedestrian zones
On a town square, the quality of the furniture partly determines how long people stay. The Garonne collection offers a quiet line that defines the space without dominating it: no loose components, only the solid concrete in its own silhouette. The seven colour options allow the benches to integrate with the colour palette of the surroundings or to deliberately set an accent.
City parks and a mixed public
In a park, the sloping side of the Garonne elements invites people to lie back and enjoy the sun. Combined with the Universe series from Escofet 1886, timber add-on elements that provide extra seating comfort, the arrangement becomes a place where parents and grandparents relax while children take over the space. The Aran model offers a raised section that makes it easier to stand for those with reduced mobility.
Would you like to know which Garonne model best suits your space?
Whether it concerns the right arrangement for a school ground or town square, the choice between freestanding and anchored or adapting to the accessibility requirements of your target group: we think along with your project. For architects and designers we make specification texts available that you can integrate directly into your bill of quantities.
Ask a question Request specification textThe three models of the Garonne collection
Garonne Toulouse (flat bench)
200 × 60 × 45 cm | 1230 kg
Flat and clean-lined, the most versatile choice for any urban public space.
View this model
Garonne Bordeaux (recessed bench)
200 × 60 × 45 (31) cm | 970 kg
With a recessed seat for a relaxed sitting posture and use by children.
View this model
Garonne Aran (raised bench)
200 × 60 × 45 (65) cm | 1410 kg
With a raised section that makes standing up easier for people with reduced mobility.
View this modelMaterials and finishes
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Element | Cast concrete with acid-etched surface |
| Material option | Recycled concrete (on request) |
| Finish | Hydrophobically treated (water-repellent surface treatment) |
| Colours | Grey (GR), Black (NG), White (BL), CA Grey (CA), Red (RA), Beige (BG) |
| Recycled concrete colour | Eco-Grey® (EGR), exclusively for recycled cast concrete |
| Weight | 970 kg (Bordeaux), 1230 kg (Toulouse), 1410 kg (Aran) |
| Anchoring options | Freestanding on paving or anchored with 2 bolts in the foundation |
| Warranty | 5 years on all components |
Insights for designers
Projects with the collection
Discover how the Garonne collection has been used in Belgian and Luxembourgish projects.
View projectsFrequently asked questions
Cast concrete with an acid-etched and hydrophobically treated surface lasts for decades under normal use. The warranty on all components is five years. The water-repellent treatment protects the structure and limits frost damage and capillary soiling.
The acid-etched and hydrophobically treated surface requires virtually no maintenance. Periodic rinsing with water is sufficient to remove deposits and street grime. Aggressive cleaning agents are not needed and are discouraged. For visible damage to the concrete surface, contact Servibo for tailored advice.
The models rest on the paving or are optionally anchored with two bolts in the foundation. For permanent installations in busy areas or where there is a higher risk of displacement, anchoring is recommended. The heavy concrete structures are lifted using polyester slings.
The acid-etched concrete evolves slightly in tone through exposure to uv light and rain. This gradual patination is part of the material character and occurs evenly. The hydrophobic treatment retains its water-repellent effect regardless of colour change.
Yes. The concrete base of the Garonne is suited to combination with the Universe series from Escofet 1886: timber add-on elements that are fixed to the concrete bench. This combination brings the warmth of wood while retaining the durability of concrete. For dimensions and compatibility, Servibo provides the technical documentation.
The right bench for your public space
Servibo supports municipalities, designers and public institutions in composing street furniture that suits the scale and use of their spaces. We offer technical support, specification texts and on-site advice.
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