Before purchasing urban outdoor furniture, precise measurement of your available space is crucial for both aesthetic harmony and functional flow. Follow this systematic guide to ensure your new pieces fit perfectly.
First, gather essential tools: a long metal tape measure (25-foot minimum), graph paper, a pencil, and a digital camera. Avoid using cloth tapes which can stretch and provide inaccurate readings.
Begin by measuring the total length and width of your primary area—whether it's a patio, balcony, or garden corner. Record these dimensions immediately. Next, identify and measure permanent obstacles: measure the diameter of tree trunks, the width of staircases, and the height of railings. Don't forget to measure doorway and pathway widths that lead to the space, as furniture must pass through these during delivery.
For the furniture itself, focus on three key dimensions: overall width/depth, height, and critical clearance space. For a dining table, measure the space required when chairs are fully pulled out—typically add 24-36 inches around the entire perimeter. For lounge seating, account for the legroom and walking paths between pieces, maintaining at least 18-24 inches of clearance for comfortable movement.
Create a simple scale drawing on graph paper, marking all permanent features. Cut out scaled paper templates representing your desired furniture pieces and experiment with different arrangements. This visual exercise prevents costly layout mistakes.
Consider the space's function: for dining areas, allow approximately 12 square feet per person. In conversational groupings, ensure seats are no more than 8 feet apart for comfortable talking distances. Always verify your measurements twice at different times of day to account for lighting conditions and usage patterns.
By methodically measuring both your space and prospective furniture, you can create an outdoor environment that balances beauty, comfort, and practicality—ensuring your urban outdoor furniture investment brings satisfaction for years to come.