The right restaurant furniture plays a large role in meeting the practical needs of both your guests and staff, whilst creating an environment that aligns with your venue’s identity. However, selecting the right pieces goes beyond just choosing tables and chairs…
There are many factors to consider when choosing the right furniture for your high-end restaurant, so read on to learn what they might be.
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The layout and arrangement of your restaurant furnishings should create a cohesive and welcoming environment. It’s not just about the individual pieces and how good they look, but how they work together to define the space.
For example, think about creating distinct dining zones within your restaurant. Perhaps a mix of booth seating for families, bistro-style tables for couples, and communal tables for larger groups, which help to offer varied experiences that cater to different customer needs.
Also, to create a cohesive look, choose a consistent design language throughout your furniture selections. This could mean using a similar colour palette, materials, or design styles. Avoid mixing too many styles, which can make the space feel disjointed.
If you have an outdoor dining area, consider how your indoor and outdoor furniture can complement each other. Opt for pieces that work well in both environments or that can be easily moved and rearranged to maintain consistency across different dining spaces.
Your restaurant’s furniture should always reflect its brand identity and target customer base.
For instance, a fine-dining establishment aims to be elegant, and so might feature upholstered chairs, dark wood tables, and sophisticated colour schemes. On the other hand, a lively (possibly family-friendly) venue might opt for durable, colourful seating with robust tables that can withstand high traffic and spills.
So, before selecting furniture, consider the overall vibe you want to convey. Do you aim to offer a cosy, home-like experience, or are you more about sleek, modern minimalism? If you wish for your venue to resonate with your clientele, furniture style, colour, and material should all align with your restaurant’s theme.
Seating is much more than just, well, a place to sit… it can greatly affect how guests perceive and enjoy their dining experience. That’s why understanding the psychology of seating can help you design a layout that keeps customers comfortable and encourages them to stay longer.
For example, guests appreciate a sense of privacy when dining. Ensure that tables are spaced appropriately to avoid crowding and provide enough personal space. For a more intimate setting, consider using screens, plants, or partitions to create a sense of seclusion.
A common guideline is to allow at least 24 inches (60 cm) of space between each guest. This spacing enables diners to sit down, get up, and manoeuvre in and out of their chairs without difficulty. For fine dining restaurants, where guests are expected to stay longer and the atmosphere is more relaxed, aim for around 30 inches (76 cm) per person.
Comfortable seating can also encourage longer stays and higher spending, which we’ll go through in more detail shortly.
Different materials offer different benefits, and selecting the right ones can enhance both the aesthetic and functional aspects of your dining space.
For example, solid wood is a popular choice for restaurant furnishings, known for its durability and classic appeal. Hardwoods like oak, maple, and walnut are particularly durable and can withstand heavy use. Wood can also be stained or painted to fit various design themes, but it does require regular maintenance to keep it looking its best, especially if it’s exposed to heavy use or moisture.
Metal furniture, such as those made from stainless steel, iron, or aluminium, is ideal for a sleek, modern look and is incredibly durable. Metal is resistant to wear and tear, easy to clean, and often less expensive than high-end wood. It’s an excellent choice for high-traffic areas, outdoor settings, or industrial-themed interiors.
Materials like leather, faux leather, or treated fabric are popular choices because they are stylish and relatively easy to clean. Leather and faux leather are also water-resistant, making them practical for settings where spills are likely.
For tables, laminate and veneer surfaces offer a more cost-effective alternative to solid wood while still providing a high-end look. These materials are also easier to clean and maintain. However, they may not be as durable as solid wood in the long run, so they are better suited for moderate-use areas.
Comfort and durability are two critical factors that can make or break a dining experience. Patrons who are comfortable are more likely to stay longer, order more, and return in the future. So, if you decide to opt for poorly made furniture, expect your customers to be deterred, which may even damage your restaurant’s reputation.
After all, guests expect furniture that is stable and secure. Wobbly chairs or tables can be a significant turn-off, as they not only detract from comfort but can also pose safety concerns. Ensure that your furniture is well-constructed and regularly maintained to prevent any issues.
The design of the dining chairs should also support comfort for at least two hours, which is a standard dining duration. This means opting for seating with adequate padding, ergonomic backrests, and armrests where appropriate. If your restaurant aims for longer dining experiences, such as in fine dining settings, consider investing in more luxurious seating options that offer enhanced comfort.
While investing in high-quality furniture is essential, it’s also important to stay within budget. Plan for both upfront costs and long-term value.
Sometimes, spending a bit more initially can save money in the long run if the furniture lasts longer and requires less frequent replacement or repair. Balance aesthetics, durability, and cost to ensure that you get the best value for your investment.
Today’s diners are more eco-conscious than ever before, and many choose restaurants that align with their values. Opting for sustainable furniture options is not only a great way to enhance your brand image but also attract this growing customer base.
So, consider furniture made from reclaimed wood, recycled metal, or sustainable materials like bamboo. These options can offer a unique aesthetic while reducing environmental impact. It’s also important you work with furniture suppliers who prioritise sustainable practices, much like we do here at Style Matters.
At Style Matters, we provide a range of restaurant furniture options that cater to every style and need.
Explore our portfolio or contact us for a personalized consultation on how to make your restaurant stand out with the perfect furniture. Call us on 01565740342 to get started.
Style Matters
Pickmere Lane,
Pickmere, Knutsford
WA16 0JJ
