You can’t use residential furniture in hospitality businesses like hotels and restaurants. There are different requirements you need to consider and follow. This is especially true for hospitality spaces. But dealing with planning all this can seem overwhelming.
That’s why we made this checklist. Use this to plan layouts, choose the right materials, and meet fire and ADA requirements. Get an organized list of what to do when buying commercial outdoor furniture.
Choose Contract-Grade Furniture Pieces
Make sure you’re getting outdoor furniture made for commercial use. It’s designed for harsher environments, higher traffic, and better durability. Making this mistake can result in costly consequences later on.
Contract-Grade vs. Residential Furniture
Here’s how the two types differ:
Durability
Contract-grade pieces can withstand constant and heavy use. Meanwhile, residential ones have less robust construction.
Weather Resistance
Both can withstand outdoor elements. But contract-grade pieces can endure harsher weather conditions.
Maintenance
Contract-grade pieces are often easier to clean and maintain. Meanwhile, residential pieces may need more frequent repairs due to less durability.
Cost
Contract-grade furniture has a higher initial cost, while residential furniture has lower costs.
Plan Comfortable Patio Seating Layouts
After picking furniture pieces made for commercial spaces, the next step is to plan their layout. For commercial outdoor spaces, here are some spacing rules you need to follow:
Between Tables: Allow 3 to 4 feet for comfortable mobility and service.
Chair Clearance: Leave about 6 feet of room between the table edge and the back of another chair.
Main Walkway/Aisles: These should be at least 5 feet wide.
Barstool Spacing: Place them about 2 feet apart along the bar.
Dining Seat Space: Each seat requires about 15 to 20 square feet of space to balance seating
In addition, here are some general layout considerations to make:
Create distinct outdoor zones with chairs, planters, and dividers.
Consider the primary use of the outdoor space: lounging, dining, etc.
Keep aisles clear for guests and staff so they may move easily.
Select Suitable Materials and Finishes
Commercial outdoor furniture uses different materials. For commercial spaces, here are the most popular options:
Teak
Teak is popular because it is incredibly durable. Its natural oil makes it resistant to insects, moisture, and other elements as well. It also has a gold-toned finish that is popular among hotel, restaurant, and resort guests.
Aluminum
Aluminium is a common lightweight material. It is also corrosion-resistant. Aluminum furniture is easy to transport and reconfigure. This is great for places that require flexible layouts for various occasions. It can also survive extreme weather conditions, except rusting in salty air.
HDPE
High-density polyethylene (HDPE) is incredibly durable. It can tolerate rain, salinity, fading, and splintering. It’s also impervious to food, drinks, and cleaning chemicals. This makes them popular on patios and poolside decks.
Steel
Stainless steel furniture has a sleek, modern appearance that looks great in outdoor commercial settings. The material is frequently coated with a powder coating, making it tough and durable. However, it rusts easily and might be heavy to carry.
Meet ADA Commercial Outdoor Furniture Requirements
Be mindful of accessibility requirements. Remember that businesses in this sector welcome a wide range of guests. You should be able to accommodate everyone. The outdoor area should be easy to move about. The furniture should be simple to use, even for persons with mobility issues.
Focus on meeting the following requirements for accessible outdoor furniture and space:
Table Height: Must be between 28 and 34 inches high
Tabletop Depth: Extending at least 19 inches under the table for legroom
Knee Clearance: At least 27 inches of vertical clearance from the floor to the tabletop’s underside
Floor Space: Each accessible table needs a 30-inch wide by 48-inch deep clear floor space for a wheelchair to maneuver
Accessible Seating: At least 5% of all your dining furniture must be ADA-compliant
Same Area: Accessible seating must be in the same area as other seating, not a separate one
Follow Fire Code for Outdoor Heaters
If your commercial business uses outdoor heaters, you need to follow the necessary fire codes. In essence, you must maintain safe distances from flammable items and structures. Contact your local fire department for information on specific local rules.
Still, here are the general fire code guidelines you should follow:
Clearances: Keep heaters away from any combustible materials. These can be wooden furniture, building structures, and more.
Clear Egress: Ensure it’s not blocking pathways, doors, exits, or windows.
Stable Surface: Place the heater on a flat, stable surface to avoid it falling or tipping over.
Manufacturer Instructions: Follow the requirements provided by the heater’s manufacturer.
Proper Storage: Use compliant storage structures, like metal cabinets, with clear “no-smoking” signs.
Conclusion
Use this commercial outdoor furniture checklist to achieve a compliant outdoor space. By following and meeting the right requirements, you can ensure that all your guests have a great time in your vicinity. From the material to sizing, use this to get the right furniture and layout for your hospitality business.
You can also check some options in our outdoor furniture collection. We have a massive selection of furniture that you can add to elevate any commercial or residential space!
FAQs
Q: What qualifies as contract-grade for outdoor use?
Contract-grade furniture is for commercial use and labeled as such. It’s designed for harsher environments, heavier use, and higher traffic.
Q: How many seats per square foot is realistic for dining?
Each seat must be about 15 to 20 square feet for balanced seating and comfort.
Q: What outdoor finishes hold up best in coastal air?
Teak and HDPE are popular in hospitality for their durability and resistance to weather elements. Aluminum and stainless steel are also suitable, but require powder coating to prevent rusting.
Q: How should I plan for ADA access in patio layouts?
Keep tables at the appropriate height with enough floor space for wheelchairs. At least 5% of the seating must also be accessible. And place it in the same area as other seating.
