Selecting commercial outdoor furniture is a significant decision that can affect the comfort, aesthetics, and functionality of your establishment’s outdoor areas. Whether you’re furnishing a restaurant patio, hotel terrace, or apartment pool area, there are several factors you need to consider to find the perfect outdoor furniture for your needs. Failing to do so could leave your customers feeling uncomfortable in your outdoor space, wasting the money you spent on what you thought would be the right commercial outdoor furniture. Not to worry, follow these seven tips and learn how to pick the best furniture for your outside business space.
1. Define Your Space Requirements
Before beginning your search for commercial outdoor furniture, carefully assess your space. First, measure your area’s square footage. Be sure to consider how many clients and employees will be using this space at a time. This will affect how much furniture you purchase, how big it is, and how you will position it. No matter what industry you are in, you must have enough room for people to walk through your space easily. No one wants to trip over a clunky lounge seat when a thin chair would have fit in the area better.
2. Choose Durable Materials
Changing weather conditions, frequent use, and heavy traffic can all take a toll on commercial outdoor furniture. To prolong your furniture’s life and save you from continuous and costly replacements, picking furniture made of durable materials is paramount.
Choose materials that are weather-resistant, fade-resistant, and easy to maintain. Such materials include powder-coated aluminum, stainless steel, teak, synthetic wicker, and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) resin. Investing in high-quality furniture now will prevent you from having to frequently replace lower-quality pieces and waste both your time and money.
3. Consider Comfort and Ergonomics
Comfort is essential to ensure that your guests can relax and enjoy their outdoor experience. If your guests aren’t comfortable, then they likely won’t return to your establishment. So, when selecting outdoor seating, consider the ergonomics and comfort features of the furniture, such as seat height, back support, and cushioning. Choose seating options with breathable and quick-drying cushions or fabrics for added comfort and convenience.
Test the furniture yourself or seek feedback from others to ensure that it meets comfort standards. However, with the rise of online stores and purchases, testing furniture isn’t always an option. That’s why when shopping online it’s important to check the reviews so you know that what you’re buying is comfortable. You can utilize the convenience of online shopping and ensure your customers will enjoy the furniture you purchase so they keep coming back.
4. Evaluate Maintenance Requirements
Maintenance is an ongoing consideration when choosing commercial outdoor furniture. Select furniture that is easy to clean and maintain, as this will save you time, effort, and money in the long run. Avoid materials that require frequent sealing, staining, or special treatments, as these can be impractical for commercial environments. Look for furniture with rust-resistant hardware, removable cushions, and easy-to-clean surfaces for hassle-free maintenance.
5. Assess Style and Aesthetics
Outdoor furniture plays a significant role in shaping the aesthetic appeal and ambiance of your commercial space. Choose furniture that complements the overall design theme and branding of your establishment. Consider factors such as color, style, and texture to create a cohesive and inviting outdoor environment.
Whether you prefer modern, rustic, or classic designs, select furniture that reflects the personality and character of your business. Customers will take notice and be more likely to remember a business with a consistent and complimentary design than one with mismatched furniture or bland appearances.
6. Prioritize Safety and Stability
Safety should always be a top priority when selecting commercial outdoor furniture. Choose furniture that is sturdy, stable, and capable of withstanding heavy use and high winds. Ensure that tables and chairs have level bases and are equipped with non-slip feet to prevent accidents or injuries. Consider investing in weighted bases or anchoring options for umbrellas and other freestanding furniture to enhance stability in windy conditions. This will save you the time of having to find, fix, or replace furniture dislodged during intense weather.
7. Set a Clear Budget
Establish a budget for your outdoor furniture project and prioritize investments based on your specific needs and priorities. While quality outdoor furniture may require a higher initial investment, it can offer long-term value and durability. Consider the total cost of ownership, including maintenance, repairs, and replacement, when evaluating different options. Explore a variety of vendors, brands, and styles to find quality furniture that fits within your budget.
Pick the Best Furniture and Keep it Looking the Best
Choosing the right commercial outdoor furniture involves careful consideration of various factors, including durability, comfort, maintenance, style, safety, and budget. You can’t prepare for everything though. Eventually your furniture will need repair from use and weather. New Again is here to help when that need does arise. Contact us today and learn more about our restoration process and how we can help with your furniture needs.