Based on a long-term research on the topic of proxemics and distance and inspired by traditional as well as modern benches to be found worldwide, the series of Modified Social Benches emerged. The Modified Social Benches borrow their basic form from ubiquitous park or garden benches, but their design is altered to various degrees to make the act of sitting a conscious physical process. Thus, the benches question the spatial separations in social situations and challenge the amount of space that people feel necessary to set between themselves and others. With their modifications, the benches transform its surroundings into places of social activity and foster dialogue between the users and the passer-by. People are invited to play an active role by not only "using" the benches as seating but enlarging the opportunities of social practice offered by a bench.