Minimum Space Requirements

The minimum suggested space for a golf simulator system is 10 ft wide, 14 ft deep, and 8.5 ft high.

• 10 ft width: 10 ft is enough width for an offset hitting area. This means the tee is aligned to accommodate left or right handed swings only.
• 14 ft depth: 14 ft of depth allows a foot behind the screen, 9 ft from the ball to the screen, and 4 ft behind the ball. The space behind the screen is required to let the screen absorb the ball and reduce bounce-back. The 9 ft from the screen to the ball provides a functional hitting area in a tight-depth setup and generally pairs best with an ultra-short-throw projector. The 4 ft behind the ball is the minimum for player stance and club swing clearance.
• 8.5 ft height: An 8.5 ft high ceiling accommodates most players and club sizes. However, this height may not be sufficient for taller players or longer clubs.

Ideal Space Requirements

The ideal suggested space for a golf simulator system is 15 ft wide, 18 ft deep, and 10 ft high.

• 15+ ft width: 15 ft of width is enough for a centered hitting mat that accommodates both left and right-handed swings.
• 18+ ft depth: 18 ft of depth allows for 1 ft behind the screen, 10-12 ft from the ball to the screen, and 7-5 ft behind the ball. This expanded depth expands projector options and enhances swing comfortability.
• 10+ ft height: A ceiling height of 10 ft or greater is suggested for comfortable gameplay by taller players with taller swings.

Ceiling Height

The ceiling height often presents the biggest space constraint. As such, here are some additional considerations.

While 8.5 ft is the absolute minimum, ceiling height is the most subjective variable in a simulator build. Your physical height is less important than your swing arc; a steep swing from a 5’10” golfer can require more clearance than a flat swing from someone 6’2”.

• The 9-foot debate: For golfers 6’ tall and over, a 9-foot ceiling is often functional but “tight.” You may comfortably swing irons, but the driver frequently comes within inches of the ceiling.
• The mental hurdle: A low ceiling can cause “Indoor Swing Syndrome,” where a golfer subconsciously shortens or flattens their swing to avoid a collision. To prevent this, aim for 10 ft to ensure total swing confidence.
• Equipment impacts: * Launch Monitors: In rooms with less than 10 ft of height, floor-based launch monitors (photometric) are superior to overhead units, as they don’t require mounting equipment that hangs down into the “danger zone.”
• Projectors: Use short-throw or ultra-short-throw projectors to keep the hardware close to the screen and away from the apex of your follow-through.
• The driver test: Always perform a “slow-motion swing test” with your driver in the exact hitting spot before finalizing your layout. If you “love tap” the ceiling during a controlled swing, you will likely hit it during a full-speed round.

Ideal Room Dimensions

The dimensions above cover the golf simulator gameplay area itself. If the room is dedicated only to the simulator, those same dimensions will work for the room overall.

If you want the space to feel more comfortable and have room for seating, A couple extra feet of depth will go a long way.

Ideal room dimensions for full playability + some extra space for seating are 15 ft wide by 20 ft deep by 10 ft high.

Space Tips

The minimum space needed for a golf simulator is 10 ft wide by 14 ft deep by 8.5 ft high. This accommodates a dedicated hitting area and left or right hand only swings.

For full playability, you’ll want an ideal available space of 15 ft wide by 18 ft deep by 10 ft high. This is enough space for both left and right handed swings and taller swings.

The ceiling height often presents the biggest space hurdle. Some players can get away with as little as 8.5 ft high. However, 10 ft will ensure comfortable play that avoids the subconscious limitation of Indoor Swing Syndrome.

Ideally, total room dimensions will have a depth of 20 ft to allow additional space for seating and to make the space feel more open.

These are general guidelines that will vary based on player size, hitting style, and overall requirements.

Thoughtful procurement, installation, and design can overcome many space hurdles.

“We have experience installing simulators in spaces as compact as 8′ in width, 8′ in depth, and 8’6″ ceilings, always tailoring the design to meet the specific needs and goals of our clients. For instance, a width of 8′ might require an off-center hitting area designed exclusively for right-handed players. Some clients prioritize a personal practice setup, and we ensure that every detail is carefully considered through in-depth discussions to deliver a solution that aligns with their vision and expectations.”

Trey Greene – Founder & CEO of Assembled Golf

According to Trey, spaces as small as 8′ wide, 8′ deep, and 8.5′ tall can work sometimes. It’s all about the user’s needs and how it’s built.