A model based on geometrical considerations of pillars in a square lattice is analyzed to predict its compression behavior under an applied normal load. Specifically, the ocrowding modelo analyzes the point at which tilting pillars become crowded onto neighboring pillars, which limits the achievable tilt angle under an applied normal load, which in turn limits their adhesion and friction forces. The crowding model is applied to the setal arrays of the tokay gecko. Good agreement is found between the predictions of the crowding model (a critical tilt angle of c=12.6 degrees to the substrate corresponding to a vertical compression of z=49m of the setae within the setal array) and experimental data for the compression of tokay gecko setal arrays. The model is also used as a criterion to predict the number density of setae in a tokay gecko setal array based on the lateral inter-pillar spacing distance, s, between tetrads of setae and the effective diameter, d, of the tetrad. The model predicts a packing density of 14,200setae/mm2, which is again in good agreement with the measured value of 14,400setae/mm2. The crowding model can be used as a tool to determine the optimum geometrical parameters, including the diameter and the spacing distance between pillars, to fabricate dry adhesives inspired by the gecko.