Determining the right number of park benches for a specific area requires balancing practical needs with comfortable spacing. Start by calculating your total available space in square feet or meters. Most urban planning guidelines recommend one bench per 100 to 200 square feet of public seating areas, though this varies based on your park's primary function.
For high-traffic areas like bus stops or event spaces, consider placing benches closer together – approximately one per 80-100 square feet. In more contemplative garden settings, you might space them further apart at one per 150-200 square feet. Always account for the bench dimensions themselves – standard benches typically measure 4-6 feet long and require at least 3-4 feet of clearance on all sides for accessibility.
Consider your expected user demographics carefully. Parks serving elderly populations or medical facilities may need 20-30% more seating. The golden rule is to provide seating for 10-15% of your maximum anticipated visitors simultaneously. Don't forget to factor in Americans with Disabilities Act requirements, ensuring at least 5% of seating is wheelchair accessible.
Observe how people naturally gather in your space. Create seating clusters near popular features like water fountains, viewpoints, or playgrounds. Remember that quality matters as much as quantity – comfortable, well-placed benches will see more use than poorly positioned ones. Finally, consult local municipal guidelines, as many cities have specific requirements for public furniture density in community spaces.