A seating area doubles as a focal point in this garden on the Oregon coast.

A deck against the house is a convenient outdoor dining room, but there is nothing like sitting in the garden. Satellite seating areas reward a short journey through the landscape with a new perspective and offer a place to rest your eyes even when you lack the time or good weather to enjoy them in person.

Without the defining structure of the house, designing an in-garden seating area can feel dauntingly open-ended. Location, size, shape and material are all up for grabs. Fortunately, we have some guidelines to help make a seating area your new favorite part of the garden.

This intimate bench in Salem, Oregon is a lovely garden feature and the perfect spot to meditate on the view of Mt Jefferson.

Location

Satellite seating areas make ideal landscape focal points. Consider locations in view of your home’s primary doors and windows or other important points in the garden. A glimpse of a secluded bench might give your mind a break on a busy day.

The view from the seating area is important, too. You can orient a bench or patio toward a scenic vista or a favorite perspective on the garden.

Wrap the seating area in at least a few feet of planting bed to separate it from fences and property lines. Exceptions for gorgeous views are encouraged.

Ample woodland plantings surround an oval-shaped flagstone patio in Eugene, Oregon.

Size

Put function first in determining size. How many people will use the seating area, and for what purpose? A fire pit with room for twenty is ideal for a family who entertains often, while a simple bench gives a quiet couple an intimate space for conversation or meditation. A correctly sized space will feel more welcoming, in addition to being the perfect fit for your needs.

This 20' diameter circular, seating-height stone wall makes a fire pit for a crowd on the Oregon coast.

This stone bench is just the right size for a family of two to enjoy their Eugene, Oregon garden.

A circular terrace is the centerpiece of this shady space.

Shape

Consider a geometric form to strengthen your satellite seating area’s impact. Rectangles, circles and even ovals make beautiful, grounding focal points as well as functional garden rooms.
Don't worry if the design seems "hard" at first. Surrounding plantings will balance and soften any hard lines, while the shapes give definition to the design.

Materials

In general, flagstone or a floating wood deck adds visual heft, while gravel appears softer and more informal. Bordering gravel with stone can add definition without hard paving. For a detailed look at paving, click over to our post, "Paving the Way"

A stone border adds visual weight to the rectangular gravel terrace in this front yard landscape.

All photos by Mosaic Gardens.