The Senate House Steps at the University of London (Image by @BDP Nick Caville) The Idea Oftentimes the simplest ideas turn out to be some of the best. For evidence, look no further than the surprising global trendlet of creating an elevated space that affords a place for rest, people-watching or socializing. Call it a bench with a view. One of the earliest success stories of such a structure is that of the Red Stairs in New York’s Times Square, which were constructed in 2008 and are still drawing crowds. The 27 glass steps—which top the TKTS ticket booth for Broadway shows—rise to a height of only 16 feet but have had a significantly larger impact for countless visitors over the years. When the stairs were built, The New York Times  raved, “The best seats on Broadway are now absolutely free.” Closer to home, when San Francisco’s Chase Center opened in 2019, it included its own version of the Red Stairs, which rises on the plaza opposite the arena entrance, allowing fans to watch Warriors games on the massive outdoor screen or partake in an al fresco pre- or post-event nosh or, as we have done ourselves after a concert, simply sit there and drink in the bustling scene. But our favorite just might be the newish Senate House Steps at the University of London. Built in late 2022 and designed as a temporary wood structure to last at least three years, the 24-foot-tall edifice is positioned directly in front of the university’s central building, replacing a banal parking lot. “It has become the landmark for all social events and students are using the pavilion as the main meeting place on campus, as a space for eating and relaxing, and for celebrating successes together,” explained architecture firm BDP, which created the piece. “The steps are carefully dimensioned to create a stage set for people to sit, lie, talk and connect.” Here in Sacramento, imagine such a perch placed along the waterfront in Old Sacramento or outside the Museum of Science and Curiosity (MOSAC). Believe it or not, one frequent question asked by visitors in Old Sacramento is, “Where is the river?” So why not provide a better view of it? Or imagine elevated seating near the Golden 1 Center where fans can await the lighting of the Beam. The Players The local chapter of The American Institute of Architects could host a design contest so that ours could be uniquely Sacramento. The Downtown Sacramento Partnership could also play a starring role, exploring locations and assisting with security and maintenance. Or the Sacramento Tree Foundation could construct one close to the new Hanami Line near MOSAC—made of wood from felled elms, perhaps? The Bottom Line The beauty of a project like this is that it can be as simple or elaborate as we want it to be. The only requirement is that it acts as a place of rest, peaceful contemplation or social interaction, all while doubling as public art. The possibilities are endless. But now—when downtown could use every amenity it can get to attract people—is the perfect time to take the first step.   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by well urban things (@wellurbanthings) Want to Learn About More Inspiring Ideas? Now Hear This – Whisper Dishes The Eyes Have It – Googly Eyes for Mass Transit Flower Power – Solar Smartflowers