How much terrace space does an umbrella base take up?
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- Issue Time
- Oct 23,2026
How much terrace space does an umbrella base take up?
Enough that the base should be set out on the plan rather than discovered on site. Our footprints by type:
- Resin centre pole bases: 42.5 cm, 44.5 cm, 50 cm and 53.5 cm diameter, with heights from 8 cm to 34 cm
- Steel-plated concrete centre pole base: 55 cm diameter and 45 cm high
- HDPE interlocking cross base: 50 x 50 x 7.5 cm
- HDPE square fillable bases: 85 x 85 x 17 cm and 97 x 97 x 19 cm
- HDPE base with handle: 90 x 90 x 21 cm
- Welded marble base: 145 x 120 x 20 cm
A square or cross base at 85 to 97 cm per side is roughly the footprint of a cafe table, so where tables are set 60 to 80 cm apart a base of that size changes the seating spacing. The low resin bases, at 50 cm diameter and 8 cm high, are the ones to choose when the base has to disappear under a table.
Footprint of common bases
A compact centre-pole plate base is roughly 40 cm to 50 cm across. A cantilever base is larger, often 80 cm to 100 cm, because the offset load needs a wide stance. Split and roller bases add a little length when open.
Planning the layout
On a tight patio, measure the arc the canopy sweeps and keep the base clear of walkways. For restaurant rows, allow 1.2 m to 1.5 m between pole centres so canopies do not clash when tilted.