It’s certainly been around for a long time, but only recently becoming a social issue. As with other social issues, it comes with its share of controversy.
Here is the Wiki definition:
en.m.wikipedia.org
It comes in many different forms.
Barriers on public benches that appear to be elbow rests but are designed to prevent undesirables from lying down
Sloped or curved benches that make sleeping and lying down impossible or uncomfortable
Sewer grates with uneven or spiked surfaces that prevent people seeking warmth from sitting or lying down on top of them
The placement of plants
Spikes or metal detractors on windowsills or alcoves that prevent people from sitting or resting
Areas underneath bridges that have been altered with spikes, gravel, or other uncomfortable surfaces to prevent people from congregating or seeking shelter
The uproar isn’t only reserved over public space. Many people are also disturbed by hostile architecture in private spaces that is designed to keep undesirables out.
Since I first encountered the term and read about it, I have noticed it everywhere I go.
Further reading:
Since the 1970s, cities have been employing something called "hostile architecture" to try to keep certain people from being in certain places. Some states are now starting to rethink this, but Jonathan Pacheco Bell says it’s still very common in cities around the world.
kjzz.org
Hostile architecture has become the face of 21st century city designs because it serves heartless city counsels well and puts a bandage on a problem that they aren’t willing to solve. Every person living in [...]
georgiastatesignal.com