Measuring space for park benches requires careful planning to ensure comfortable seating while maintaining proper circulation. First, measure your total available area in square feet or meters. Standard park benches typically require 5-6 feet (1.5-1.8 meters) in length and need 3-4 feet (0.9-1.2 meters) of clearance in front for pedestrian access.
Begin by calculating your total linear space. If you have a pathway that's 50 feet long, and each bench needs 8 feet total (5-foot bench plus 3-foot clearance), you could theoretically fit 6 benches. However, consider practical spacing - benches should be spaced at regular intervals rather than clustered together.
For larger areas, think in terms of zones. A 20x20 foot square could accommodate a central bench with walking space around it. Remember to account for Americans with Disabilities Act requirements, which mandate at least 36 inches of clear passageway beside benches.
Always test your calculations by marking proposed bench locations with temporary markers. Observe how people naturally move through the space before finalizing your bench arrangement. This ensures your benches enhance rather than obstruct the park experience.