What is Traffic Flow?
Traffic flow is how people move through a space. Clear paths from doors to rooms, around furniture, and between areas make spaces feel open and accessible.
Spacing Guidelines
Doorway to furniture: minimum 24 inches. Between seating: 18-24 inches. Around tables: 36 inches walking space. Hallways: minimum 36-42 inches wide.
Fixing Poor Traffic Flow
If your room feels cramped, clear some pathways. Move furniture away from doors. Reduce the number of pieces. Use vertical storage instead of floor space.
Key Takeaways
- •Clear pathways make rooms feel open
- •24 inches minimum from doorways
- •18-24 inches between seating
- •36 inches walking space around tables
- •Vertical storage saves floor space
- •Less furniture improves flow
- •Rugs can define traffic zones
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my room has awkward traffic patterns?
Work with them rather than against them. Place furniture to guide natural paths. Use our room planner to experiment with different arrangements.
How do I fix a narrow room with poor flow?
Use minimal, streamlined furniture. Arrange pieces perpendicular to the long walls rather than parallel. Keep one side as clear as possible.