When outfitting your restaurant’s outdoor dining area, it’s crucial to consider more than just décor and design. Unlike indoor spaces, outdoor seating requires careful attention to various factors to ensure a welcoming and functional environment.
STRONG EFFICIENCY
In urban or limited space settings, opt for smaller tables and chairs to maximize seating capacity. Consider using 32×32 or smaller tables and compact chairs without arms to optimize space efficiency.
SHELTER AND SHADE
Determine whether your outdoor dining area will be covered by a roof or awning. If not, consider incorporating umbrellas into your design to provide shade for patrons. Choose tables and bases that accommodate umbrellas or explore free-standing and cantilever umbrella options.
TABELTOP MATERIAL
For uncovered spaces, weigh the pros and cons of different tabletop materials. Be mindful of materials that may become uncomfortably hot in direct sunlight and choose lighter colors that help reflect the sun. Did you know that powder coating can help reduce a table’s heat absorption by reflecting sunlight and preventing direct contact between the metal and skin, making the furniture more comfortable to touch in hot weather?
VENUE REQUIREMENTS
Consider the specific demands of your venue, such as weight restrictions or wind exposure. Opt for lightweight and stackable furniture for sidewalk cafes, while seaside locations may benefit from rust-resistant materials like aluminum or plastic.
AESTHETIC APPEAL
Treat your outdoor dining area as a form of advertising by selecting eye-catching and possibly colorful furniture. The visual appeal of your outdoor seating can serve as a marketing tool to attract passersby and potential customers. Explore BFM Seating’s range of outdoor furniture options at BFMSeating.com for stylish and durable choices.
PRACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS
Think about the practical aspects of your furniture, such as stackability for easy storage and ease of disassembly for off-season storage. Opt for furniture that aligns with your operational needs and storage capabilities.
LAYOUT CONSIDERATIONS
When planning your outdoor dining area, consider the layout and orientation of the tables. Should diners face the street for a vibrant urban atmosphere, or would they prefer a more secluded setting away from pedestrian traffic? Depending on your location and clientele, investing in screening or barriers to block off the street or passersby may enhance the dining experience by providing privacy and reducing distractions.
By carefully considering these essential furniture considerations, you can create a welcoming and inviting outdoor dining area that enhances the overall dining experience for your customers while maximizing the potential of your restaurant’s outdoor dining area. Explore the diverse selection of outdoor furniture options available at BFM Seating for durable and stylish choices tailored to your restaurant’s needs.
To learn more about BFM Seating’s Outdoor Dining Area Furnishings, please click here or call us at 215-289-5411.
