With so many types and styles of seating options available to choose from, getting the right one for your establishment can seem daunting. Still, it is important that the seating you choose be at once, attractive, comfortable, and durable.
You may wish to use booths and banquettes for their comfort. When given the option many patrons will prefer a booth. Still, booths being stationary, they don’t allow for moving seating around. Also, they require more real estate in your dining room.
Even if you have booths, it is likely you will also need chairs as well. When choosing chairs there are several considerations beyond their style.
Arm or side chair?
Most restaurants will opt for armless side chairs as they have a smaller footprint then armchairs. Higher end white tablecloth establishments as well as country clubs and senior living often use arm chairs.
Metal or wood frame?
For the frame of your chair you can usually choose from an almost limitless selection of styles in metal, wood, or a combination of both. Each has its plusses and minuses. Wood frames can offer a warmer look and convey a less commercial vibe. The wood species and stain can often times have a color that accents other wood elements like table tops, floors, or bars. Wood’s drawbacks can include the need for regular checking for loosening hardware, and being more inclined to scratches.
Metal frames are extremely durable and also come in a large variety of styles. The frames can last a lifetime but can be perceived as more industrial than a wood chair. Metal is heavier too, which may not go over well with a staff that needs to move them.
The Barrick series (featured image) from BFM Seating is a great example of mixed materials chairs.
No matter what style frame you use, if you opt for a vinyl seat, again the options are limitless. Always confirm that your choice for a seat material is suitable for commercial use. It is good to check the double rub count of your choice. A heavy duty material will have a minimum of 15,000 to 30,000 double rubs. It is assumed that 3000 double rubs is equal to one year of use.
Taking the time to select the right seating for you establishment can go along way towards providing a pleasant dining experience for your customers.
To learn more about BFM Seating’s popular wholesale restaurant seating, please click here or call us at 215-289-5411.
