Urbanization often disrupts wildlife habitats, but thoughtful design can create spaces where humans and animals coexist. Ermines, small carnivores related to weasels, thrive in diverse environments, including cities—if given the right conditions. Outdoor seating can play a surprising role in supporting these elusive creatures.

To design ermine-friendly seating, consider these principles:

1. Integrated Shelter: Incorporate hollow spaces beneath benches or within seating structures, providing refuge from predators and harsh weather.

2. Native Plant Integration: Surround seating with dense shrubs and ground cover, offering hunting grounds for ermines while maintaining aesthetic appeal.

3. Material Choices: Use untreated, natural materials like wood or stone, avoiding chemicals that could harm wildlife.

4. Elevated Pathways: Design seating with connected logs or stepping stones, allowing ermines to move safely through urban areas.

Cities like Oslo and Vancouver have successfully implemented wildlife-inclusive designs, proving that urban spaces can support biodiversity. By rethinking outdoor furniture, we can create habitats that benefit both ermines and city dwellers—enhancing ecological resilience while fostering a deeper connection to nature.

Such designs not only aid ermines but also contribute to broader urban wildlife conservation, making cities more sustainable and livable for all species.