Q+A with UltraSite’s Stephanie Devine: Designing Parks That Welcome Everyone

Welcome back to our Partner Spotlight series, where we’re showing off the partners that we work with to make your dream park project a reality!

If you love spending time outdoors, this spotlight is for you. We sat down with Stephanie Devine from UltraSite, who shared her passion for creating welcoming spaces with quality amenities—like park benches, picnic tables, and bike racks. Parks are where communities gather, so why not make them as inviting and comfortable as possible? Thanks to UltraSite, they are!

Q: What makes UltraSite amenities a must-have when adding them to an outdoor space?

A: UltraSite amenities transform an ordinary space into inviting, functional gathering places. Designed for comfort, accessibility, and connection, our products bring people of all ages together to enjoy the outdoors. From picnic tables and benches to trash receptacles and fire rings, we offer everything needed to create a welcoming community space.
 

Q: From picnic tables and benches to trash receptacles and fire rings—what else is in the UltraSite lineup?

A:  UltraSite offers a full range of site furnishings designed to complement any park. Beyond picnic tables and benches, we offer game top tables, preschool furniture, bike racks, bollards, recycling receptacles, and dog park agility equipment. We offer all these products in a variety of materials to suit any park. Our signature UltraCoat thermoplastic-coated line delivers durability and style, while we also offer furniture crafted from recycled plastic planks and a premium collection of powder-coated steel street furniture. 

Q: UltraCoat sounds fancy. What makes it a game-changer for comfort, safety, and longevity?

A:  UltraCoat is fancy! UltraSite was one of the first in the industry to utilize thermoplastic on steel site furniture. We have continued to lead the charge ever since! The signature coating isn’t just durable, it offers exceptional adhesion, resists cuts and vandalism, and features a smooth, drip-free finish. Plus, it's UV-stabilized to prevent fading over time and can easily be repaired in the field.

Q: We talk a lot about how parks bring people together. Can you tell us about the Connection Series sounds like it focuses on just that!

A: Yes! UltraSite’s Connection Series truly re-imagines how people gather. This innovative line of patented tables and benches creates a welcoming environment where everyone can participate and feel included. It truly changes how we look at traditional seating by providing intentional choices for people in mobility devices. Often, there is just one spot offered to accommodate wheelchairs. Connections provides many thoughtful ways to include people of all abilities so they’re in the center of the conversation.

Q: What’s one common mistake you see in amenity planning and how can UltraSite help prevent it with the right solutions?

A:  A common mistake in amenity planning is treating site furnishings as an afterthought, which can leave spaces without enough diverse seating. UltraSite prevents this by offering inclusive picnic tables in a variety of shapes and sizes, that accommodate mobility devices and more. We also offer benches with and without backs and armrests, as well as Leaning Rails, Bistro Tables, and Utility Tables. Thoughtfully combining these products ensures every area is accessible and inviting for all.

Q: What’s one amenity you wish more parks would use? The hidden gem of the UltraSite catalog?

A: It’s hard to choose just one, but a long-time favorite of mine is the Buddy Bench, not because of how it looks, but because of what it stands for. The idea was created by a young boy who wanted to help kids feel less alone. If a child sits on the bench, it signals to others that they’re looking for a friend. It’s such a simple, yet powerful way to encourage inclusion, empathy, and kindness.

Q: What trends are you seeing in community outdoor space design?

A:  We are seeing a big shift toward intentional, inclusive design. Communities want spaces that serve the whole community. These spaces include multi-generational areas, fitness zones, pet-friendly areas, and places that can be used for events or gatherings. UltraSite is proud to support these trends with versatile, durable products that help outdoor spaces become community hubs.

Q. Why are site amenities essential for making a park feel like a true community space?

A: Site amenities are essential for making a park feel like a true community space, yet they are often an afterthought. When planned thoughtfully, amenities create comfort, encourage engagement, and foster connections. A picnic table invites people of all ages and abilities to gather, while a bench under a shady tree provides a spot to rest and enjoy the surroundings. Thoughtfully designed amenities activate the space, support diverse uses, and help bring the community together.

You know we love to bring communities together! Thanks so much for taking the time to speak with us!