The simple answer is yes, darker colors of urban outdoor furniture can become significantly hotter to sit on in direct sunlight compared to lighter shades. This is a fundamental principle of physics: darker surfaces absorb more wavelengths of light energy, converting them into heat. A black or dark brown metal bench on a sunny summer day can reach temperatures high enough to cause discomfort or even minor burns.
However, the full picture is more nuanced. The material is a critical factor. While dark-painted metal or thermoplastic can become extremely hot, dark-colored woods like ipe or teak, though warm, often remain more tolerable due to wood's lower thermal conductivity. Modern materials and coatings are also addressing this issue. Powder-coated metals with special reflective pigments, composite woods, and concrete mixes are being engineered to mitigate heat absorption, even in darker, aesthetically preferred colors.
Urban design strategies play a crucial role. The placement of furniture is often more important than its color. Seating installed in naturally shaded areas, under tree canopies, or within architectural shadows will stay comfortable regardless of hue. Many city planners now prioritize location and material specification over color avoidance, allowing for darker, design-cohesive furniture that doesn't sacrifice public comfort.
For the public, a quick touch test is advisable. If the surface feels uncomfortably hot to your hand, it's not suitable for sitting. The ongoing challenge for urban designers is to balance aesthetic preferences for sleek, dark finishes with the practical necessity of providing safe and comfortable public amenities. The trend is moving toward smarter material science that lets cities have both style and functionality.