What’s the most common mistake when planning a small patio layout?

Small patios often feel cramped not because the space is tiny, but because the seating zone was never defined before furniture was bought. A chair that looks compact indoors can take over a patio once circulation space, rug size, and table clearance are factored in.

A more practical approach is to map the main seating area first, then decide whether a simple budget setup is enough or whether a better-fitting space-saving upgrade is worth it. In many cases, fewer well-sized pieces work better than trying to fill every corner.

What measurement or layout mistake seems to cause the most problems outdoors: rug size, chair depth, table footprint, or leaving too little walking space?