If you are shopping for a bench for a typical urban residential garden, the most popular size is usually 48 to 60 inches long, with 48 inches being the real sweet spot for most city gardens. A 48-inch bench seats two people comfortably, fits nicely on a small patio or along a path, and does not swallow a compact space. A 60-inch bench is also common if you want room for three people or a little extra space for a container or tray.
When it comes to comfort, aim for a seat depth of about 20 to 24 inches, and a seat height between 17 and 19 inches from the ground. That height feels natural for most adults and works well with standard garden tables if you ever use the bench for extra seating. If the bench has a backrest, a back height of around 16 to 20 inches above the seat usually feels supportive without making the piece look too heavy.
In a small urban garden, a 36-to-42-inch bench can work as a loveseat or balcony accent, but it is not as popular as the 48-inch size because it limits seating and can feel more like a chair. On the other end, a 72-inch bench can be great for a larger terrace or shared courtyard, but it often feels oversized in a typical residential garden.
If you are unsure, go with a 48-inch bench, especially for a townhouse, courtyard, or patio garden. It is the easiest size to style, move, and live with, and it gives you that classic garden bench look without demanding too much space.