Outdoor bench by Lise Vester for Muuto offers a tranquil spin on alfresco seating
**"C'mon, let's dive into the world of sensory design, shall we? Danish designer Lise Vester puts it perfectly: 'From the moment we're born, touch is our first sense, forming the foundation of how we connect to the world and feel love,'" she says.
This sentiment is echoed throughout her designs, and it's clear in her work for Muuto. The 'Dream View Bench', revealed at the 3 Days of Design festival (18-20 June 2025), is a testament to this idea. Crafted from stainless steel, molded into wave-like curves, this bench isn't just an object to sit on—it's a space for people to feel, reflect, and thrive.
"Imagine a bench that encourages you to lean back, gaze skyward, and let your thoughts wander," Vester explains to our site. "That's what the Dream View Bench is all about—a playful, sensory, ergonomic experience that invites you to dream."
Designed for outdoor use, it had to stand up to the elements. Stainless steel was chosen not only for its durability but also for its tactile qualities. The brushed surface gives it a soft touch, making it inviting to the touch. The reflective finish allows the bench to mirror its surroundings, especially the sky, bringing the heavens to Earth.
The 'Dream View Bench' was partly inspired by Vester's personal experiences. After witnessing the cold, alienating nature of clinical environments, she experienced a profound transformation in a hospice that was warm, welcoming, and comforting. This experience shaped her approach to design.
"I aim to weave the empathy and beauty found in palliative care settings into everyday life. Whether it's homes, workplaces, or cities, I hope my designs can support people wherever they are," she explains.
Made in Denmark, the 'Dream View Bench' will be pre-launched at Muuto's space in Copenhagen during 3 Days of Design 2025 and officially launch on 1 September 2025. So next time you're wandering around Copenhagen, take a seat, gaze up, and let your mind wander. You never knows what you might dream up.
Sign up for our newsletter to get a daily dose of inspiration, escapism, and design stories from around the world. You'll find us waiting with open arms, ready to invite you into a world of sensory design.
In Lise Vester's sensory design philosophy, items extend beyond their functional role and transform into spaces that foster emotional connection, such as the 'Dream View Bench'. This outdoor bench, set to debut at Muuto's Copenhagen space during 3 Days of Design 2025, aims to bridge the gap between everyday life and the serene landscapes found in palliative care settings, merging home-and-garden aesthetics with a lifestyle that fosters introspection and reflection.
