Restaurant Furniture

Guide to Finding Restaurant Furniture

How to choose furniture that reflects your restaurant's atmosphere
By Julianne Jardine

	Setting the Table for A Successful Restaurant Furniture Search Factor in both form and function. Even the most stylish restaurant tables and chairs must be sturdy and comfortable. Consult the pros. Even selecting bar stools and bar tables can be easier with input from design pros. Cast a wide net. The web is replete with info on restaurant furniture suppliers for all tastes and price ranges.

The "right" restaurant furniture is the perfect complement to a good meal. Here are some of the key points to consider when purchasing restaurant furniture for your eating establishment:

1. Determine the dimensions of your eating area. Restaurant tables and chairs, bar tables, and bar stools vary greatly in size. Whatever you get has to fit.
2. Create a unified and aesthetically appealing look using various colors, textures, sizes, shapes and grades.
3. Use a supplier that is willing to provide samples, warranties and quantity discounts.
4. Consider the impact and expertise that an interior designer can offer. Yes, you'll have to invest in design expenses, but the payoff is a look that sets you apart from the competition.

Action Steps for Restaurant Furniture

The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Invest in design expertise An interior designer who specializes in restaurants can help you determine the type of furniture that works best in the layout and atmosphere of your establishment.

I recommend:  Maxeyhayse Interior Design's checklist explains the benefits of using a restaurant interior designer. For help in finding a designer, check out ASID's "Find a Designer" page. Or see a list of designers of hospitality furnishings and restaurant tables and chairs at Dezignare.

Match space, size, color and function The multitude of sizes, finishes, designs and colors of restaurant furniture can be daunting. You can choose from wood or metal, laminate or stained, painted or natural finish. Seating fabrics can be cotton, plush velvet, natural fiber and more. The same holds true for sizes.

I recommend:  For expert help in determining sizes and functional elements of furniture, check out Jean's Restaurant Supply or see restaurant furniture sites at Business.com.

Get all the details before placing your order Restaurant-furnishing companies can offer the most basic or most accommodating service. You'll want the latter. A qualified and professional furniture supplier should be willing to provide catalogs, swatches and delivery assistance, at the least.

I recommend:  For a comprehensive list of restaurant furniture suppliers and their services, try Food Service Central.

Finding Great Restaurant Tables, Chairs, and More

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• Wood furniture can be as simple as oak or as exotic as zebrawood and Brazilian cherry. Ask for samples to view a variety.
• Color affects diners' moods. Warm earth tones make customers feel comfortable while cool colors, like icy blues, can make a restaurant feel less inviting.
• Don't forget the bathrooms. Incorporate your furniture design into your restrooms to create a unified look.
• Get warranty information on all your furniture purchases. Ask if the manufacturer will replace or repair damaged pieces.
• A counter stool is normally 24 to 26 inches high while a standard bar stool is 30 inches high. For a functional and appealing look, take into account all elements of seating, service and pathways.
• Some furniture suppliers offer in-house computer-aided design (CAD) specialists who will provide you with layout suggestions.