Margie Grace - Grace Design Associates There's no magic formula for this bench. We needed it to retain soil so that we could create a flat yard so it's about 18' long. Then we just went for what we thought was comfortable. The cushions are 5" thick so we subtracted that from 20" seat height and made the seat 15" above grade. We wanted the bench to be wide enough to take a nap on if we should so choose, but not so deep that it was uncomfortable to sit on --- we chose 30 or 32", if memory serves, which meant needing a couple of pillows behind the back of short-legged folks to be comfortable. Back of bench is angled for greater comfort sitting and is 18-20" above the top of cushions or 23-25" above top of stone seat.

RE: red stones --- I recommend using stone that is native (or looks like it could be) to the site/area so that the finished product has a sense of place.

RE: shorter --- Length? Height? Sure! You want to make a bench that makes sense in the setting... if shorter is better for the space you have go for it. It helps to draw up your proposed bench to scale to make sure it isn't going to look wonky before you "set it in stone", as it were. Also take a look at other pieces of furniture that you sit on that are comfortable for you and get a feel for what range of measurements work/feel comfortable/look right.

If you wind up building it, don't forget to post a photo of the finished product! Good luck.

Shilu George very nice concept

Jodie Cook Landscape Design Hi there! Thanks for asking. The fire bowl was purchased from a pottery retailer in Southern Orange County. It's made of fire-safe colored concrete with a gas ring insert.