When it comes to outfitting your restaurant’s outdoor space, selecting the right dining tables and market umbrellas goes beyond mere aesthetics. It’s a strategic decision that requires thoughtful consideration of various factors to ensure both functionality and style. Let’s embark on a detailed exploration of what to keep in mind when choosing outdoor dining tables.
LOCATION MATTERS:
The first and foremost consideration is your location. Will your outdoor dining area be covered? If not, certain materials prove more resilient under direct sunlight. Metal, glass, and specific plastics can become uncomfortably warm with prolonged sun exposure. Solid top tables, while stylish, might take longer to dry after rain. In such cases, opt for treated woods, plastic, or perforated aluminum or steel with a powder-coated finish. These materials offer durability while being resistant to the elements.
Is your area prone to high winds? If so, heavier materials and weighted bases become crucial for stability. Factor in your local climate to ensure your outdoor tables can withstand the elements and last for years.
MENU CONSIDERATIONS:
Consider your menu when choosing outdoor dining tables; it’s a factor that adds an extra layer of importance to maintaining a pristine dining environment. If your menu features items that may result in crumbs or debris on the table, opting for a perforated or slatted top becomes crucial, and offers unique advantages: this design minimizes standing rainwater, is easy to wash down while maintaining your patio, and reduces the risk of food items becoming lodged. Embracing these designs simplifies cleanliness, ultimately saving your staff time and effort in maintaining a hygienic outdoor dining space.
SPACE OPTIMIZATION:
Available space is another critical factor influencing the size and shape of your tables. In tighter areas, smaller square or rectangular tops are practical, optimizing seating without overcrowding. Larger, open spaces might accommodate picnic tables with integrated seating or even round bar-height tables if the area extends from the bar. Be sure to also consider portability if the tables will need to be moved and/or secured in the space.
CLIENTELE COMFORT:
Consider your clientele’s comfort when selecting outdoor furniture. While this concern might seem minor, it’s essential to create a pleasant dining experience. To elevate comfort and ensure an inviting atmosphere, we recommend the addition of custom-fit cushions by BFM. This small adjustment can make a substantial difference, transforming your outdoor dining space from basic to bougie.
The choices for outdoor dining tables are vast, and the considerations are equally extensive. Striking the right balance between style, functionality, and durability is key to creating an inviting and enduring outdoor dining space for your restaurant.
UNLOCKING THE POTENTIAL OF MARKET UMBRELLAS:
Transitioning from tables to market umbrellas, these versatile additions can do more than just provide shade. BFM Seating’s commercial market umbrellas are crafted to endure the challenges of outdoor use. Constructed with materials like aluminum, wood, fiberglass, or a combination, these umbrellas boast heavy-duty canvas canopies resistant to fading from UV rays.
SIZE AND SHAPE CONSIDERATIONS:
Choosing the right size and shape of a market umbrella depends on the area you wish to cover. For individual tables, smaller sizes, such as 6.5′ or 7.5′, may suffice. For freestanding use, larger options, like 9.5′ or more, are preferable. A square market umbrella can offer a roof-like effect, while octagonal or round shapes can shade larger areas.
COLOR CHOICES:
Market umbrellas aren’t just functional; they’re also an opportunity to showcase your brand. Colorful covers can serve as a billboard for your outdoor area, and some can even be customized with your logo or name, adding a personalized touch.
ADDITIONAL TIPS:
Consider the lifting mechanism, whether a traditional rope pulley or a built-in crank. Base selection depends on the umbrella size and placement—under a table or freestanding. Cantilever umbrellas are an excellent choice for larger areas, offering flexibility in shading.
In conclusion, the process of selecting outdoor dining tables and market umbrellas involves careful consideration of location, menu specifics, available space, and clientele comfort. By weighing these factors, you can create an outdoor dining space that not only aligns with your restaurant’s aesthetic but also stands up to the rigors of commercial use, providing a pleasant experience for patrons.
To learn more about BFM Seating’s dining market umbrellas, please click here or call us at 215-289-5411.
