Cafe Chairs: Types, Styles, and Designs to Consider

Let’s face it, not many of us give a thought as to the type of chair we’re sitting on at our local cafe. Sadly, cafe chairs are often an afterthought when in reality they should be a priority, especially if you’re a cafe owner.

Don’t worry, read on and you’ll find all the information you need to know when you come to select your new cafe chairs.

Basic Chair Needs

Even though each cafe will have different chair requirements, there are still a couple of basic needs whatever chair you decide on.

Think about when you park your bottom on a chair. You want your bottom to fit on the entire seat, right? With this in mind, the depth of the chair seat needs to be between 40-45 cm and your table top should be sitting about 30 cm from the top of the seat.

There are also a few chair qualities that need taking into account:

• Safety – your customers’ safety should be your top priority. Making sure your chosen chair is strong and robust and will remain stable throughout the duration is a must – not just for the short-term but for their entire life-span.
• Maintenance – before deciding on a chair think about the level of care that might be required. As a busy cafe owner, you want a chair that is easy maintenance.   
• Style – Even though comfort and durability are key, it doesn’t mean you can overlook their style. Aesthetic qualities are important, too. This leads us on nicely to our next point.

Types of cafe chairs

This list could be as long as my arm but for now, I’m going to concentrate on the most common types of cafe chairs.

Banquet chairs are typically lightweight and durable, but they’re mostly chosen for the stacking or foldable abilities which makes them easy to manoeuvre and to transport to a venue.

A side chair is your average straight-backed armless option. When placed as a group around a table, they’re often accompanied at the head of the table by a carver chair – which is just a side chair with arms.

Industrial style chairs made from all-metal or with wooden seats and a metal frame are another popular option.

If you prefer more of a traditional look then why not consider ladder back chairs. We do a range that has matching high stools. The wood slats on the back run horizontally and the seats are padded for additional comfort.

What design and style to choose?

Now you know the most common cafe chairs, you need to consider your cafe and what would complement your décor and existing furniture.

To help choose a style that matches the design and style of cafe a simple tip is to choose similar materials in your furniture. If you’re going for a western vibe you could mix wicker and wood. For more of a cutting-edge look, try metal or transparent materials.

Common materials used in cafe chairs include:

• Welded metal or steel
• Polypropylene
• Metal and wood mixed
• Weathered teak
• Aluminium
• Vinyl padded seats
• Nylon rattan/wicker

When thinking about the style and design, consider additions you may need such as footrests, arms, stools etc.

Ready to shop?

Now you have all the relevant information to hand, it’s time to start your shopping.

Fortunately, there’s a one-stop-shop right here at your fingertips. You can order online for no-contact delivery or collection or drop by our Sydney showroom to see our wide range of cafe chairs.