When planning a public seating area, a common and crucial question arises: How much space should I leave between two park benches? The answer isn't a single measurement but a balance of function, accessibility, and human comfort.
Primarily, you must ensure compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or your local equivalent. ADA guidelines require a clear floor space of at least 30 by 48 inches for wheelchair access alongside or in front of a bench. Therefore, the absolute minimum clearance between two facing or adjacent benches should be at least 5 to 6 feet (1.5 to 1.8 meters) to accommodate this passage.
Beyond legal requirements, consider human psychology and space. For casual social interaction or allowing strangers to share a space comfortably, a spacing of 8 to 10 feet (2.4 to 3 meters) is often ideal. This creates a sense of individual "territory" for each bench while keeping the area feeling connected. For benches intended for private conversation or in quieter garden settings, placing them 12 to 15 feet (3.6 to 4.5 meters) apart or more can enhance a sense of seclusion.
Always factor in the main pedestrian flow. Ample space—ideally a minimum clear path of 6 feet—should be maintained behind benches and in the main walkway to prevent the seating from becoming an obstacle. The golden rule is to observe how people naturally use space. Test your layout with temporary seating if possible, and remember that generous, thoughtful spacing ultimately creates a more welcoming and functional public environment for everyone.