How Much Room Do You Need Around an Outdoor Dining Table?
One of the most common mistakes we see is choosing a dining table that technically fits the space, but doesn't leave enough room to use it comfortably.
Before you buy, it's worth thinking about more than just the size of the table. Chairs need room to slide out, people need space to walk around, and you don't want your outdoor area to feel cramped every time someone gets up.
Whether you're furnishing a compact courtyard or a large entertaining area, a little planning now can make a big difference later.
How much room should you leave around an outdoor dining table?
As a general guide, we recommend allowing at least 90cm between the edge of your dining table and any wall, fence or obstacle.
This gives enough room for someone to comfortably pull out their chair and move around the table without feeling squeezed.
If the area is a main walkway or people will regularly be passing behind seated guests, allowing closer to 100–120cm will make the space feel much more comfortable.
How much space do you need to pull out a chair?
This is the measurement many people forget.
A dining chair doesn't stay tucked neatly under the table once you're using it. Most chairs need around 60–70cm to pull out comfortably, with extra space if someone needs to walk behind.
If your dining area feels tight, it's often because there isn't enough room for the chairs rather than the table itself.
Do armchairs need more room than armless chairs?
Yes.
Armchairs are generally wider and take up a little more space around the table than armless dining chairs.
If you’re choosing armchairs, allow a little more room around your table. Unlike armless chairs that can often slide in from the side, armchairs need enough space to comfortably pull out and sit down.
If you're trying to maximise seating in a smaller outdoor area, switching to armless chairs can often allow you to seat more people without making the space feel crowded.
This is something we regularly help customers compare in our Macgregor showroom.
What if your outdoor area is small?
A smaller patio doesn't necessarily mean you need a smaller dining setting.
Sometimes choosing an extendable table, a round table, or using a combination of armchairs and armless chairs can make much better use of the available space.
A bench seat can also be a great space-saving choice, especially for families. It tucks neatly under the table when not in use and creates an easy, relaxed spot for kids to gather around the table.
The goal isn't to fit the biggest table possible, it's to create an outdoor area that's comfortable to enjoy every day.
Quick spacing guide
| Area | Recommended Space |
|---|---|
| Behind a dining chair | 90cm minimum |
| Comfortable walkway | 100–120cm |
| Chair pulled away from table | 60–70cm |
Common mistakes when measuring for outdoor furniture
Before ordering your dining setting, check that you've allowed enough room for:
- Chairs to slide out comfortably.
- People to walk behind seated guests.
- Doors and screens to open fully.
- BBQs, outdoor kitchens or other fixed features.
- Extra room if you're planning to add an umbrella.
Thinking about these details now can save a lot of frustration later.
A tip from our showroom
One thing we often notice is that customers measure the available space but don't always picture how they'll actually use it.
Ask yourself:
- Will people be walking through this area regularly?
- Do I want space for children to move around?
- Will chairs stay in one position, or will they be pulled out often?
Sometimes choosing a slightly smaller table creates a space that's much more enjoyable to use.
Need help planning your outdoor space?
If you're unsure which table size will work best, bring your patio measurements into our Macgregor showroom.
We can help you compare different table sizes, chair styles and layouts, so you can feel confident that your new outdoor dining setting will fit beautifully, not just on paper, but in everyday life.
