Ensuring your new outdoor furniture fits perfectly requires careful measurement and planning. Start by measuring the total area of your patio, deck, or balcony using a tape measure. Record both length and width dimensions, noting any permanent features like pillars, planters, or built-in structures that might affect furniture placement.
For seating areas, allow at least 30-36 inches of clearance around dining tables for chair movement and comfortable seating. Measure potential furniture pieces while considering traffic flow - maintain walkways at least 36 inches wide. Create a simple scale drawing of your space, marking dimensions and permanent features.
Consider furniture proportions in relation to your space. Large sectionals work best in spacious areas, while compact balconies benefit from modular or foldable pieces. Don't forget vertical space - measure for umbrellas or shade structures, ensuring adequate clearance from overhead obstacles.
Test your measurements by marking proposed furniture placement with painter's tape on the ground. This visual guide helps verify proportions and circulation space before making purchases. Always double-check doorway dimensions if furniture needs to pass through indoor spaces to reach your outdoor area.