Position for a Bench

You might never have questioned the positioning of your outdoor bench before, but it very well could be facing the wrong way. With just a little rejigging, your outdoor space can take on a new lease of life, opening the space up for socializing, entertaining or a quiet corner for contemplation. 
Deciding on bench placement is firstly about considering what you will use the backyard bench for. For Susan Mitnick of Susan Mitnick Design Studio, getting the outdoor bench right is about balancing the practical with the aesthetic element. 'Outdoor benches are a lovely focal point as well as a functional element. I always consider the balance of placement in conjunction with the mood it evokes and consider how I want to feel in that location.'
We've spoken to the backyard experts to get to grips with the key considerations to help you land the perfect direction.

A natural and obvious solution to the question of the location of your bench could be to echo the footprint of your backyard, sitting the bench flush against the perimeter. If you have a small backyard, you might want to consider this placement to help forge the illusion of a roomy backyard.
'In smaller townhouses' rear yards, we like to install outdoor benches along a brick outdoor wall, garden fencing or a hedge if possible,' says Christine Harpe. 'It feels cozier that way, you feel more enveloped by the lush surroundings. It’s also nice to install benches under a tree since it's providing shade in the summer, but trees are sometimes rare on tiny urban residential lots. We try to plant trees in the rear yard of our projects since summers in New York City can be quite hot.'
In this small backyard in Melbourne, designed by Circle Studio(opens in new tab), the L-shaped bench slots perfectly into a corner, creating a neat space for looking out onto the yard. The placement doesn't take up too much space, and the addition of the outdoor coffee table is a nice finishing touch, encouraging you to take a seat. 

Have a good think about the view from the outdoor bench and what it's been placed near. 'The placement can evoke a myriad of moods and interactions,' says Susan. 'Shade or dappled light, nurturing sunshine, meditation, and peace, or convivial connection.'
You might want your backyard bench to be settled near your favorite flowerbed, under the shade of a tree, or near a water feature. 'One of the best spaces to place a bench is near a water feature,' says Christopher. 'Water engages your senses and brings a sense of calm and abundance. We are hardwired to respond to the sound of running water. This is fantastic for contemplative spaces and can bring an instant connection to the natural world.'
Ends of outdoor paths are ideal spots for benches as it guides you through the backyard to a destination. 'Benches can be an endpoint that gives you a reason to experience an underutilized portion of your backyard,' adds Christopher.

Finally, no matter where in the world you are setting up your backyard, and no matter the purpose of the space, be it for socializing or relaxation, be mindful of the location of the sun. Avoid placement where the glare will be too strong and consider how you can incorporate partial shade into the design. 'A south-facing will create an uncomfortable midday glare as you will face direct sunlight,' says Christopher.
'Orienting the bench so that the sun is behind you can be an excellent way to enjoy a daytime moment of rest. If you have good sunset views, consider orienting the bench to face west to enjoy the show.'