The hotel industry’s growing popularity of outdoor eating makes choosing furniture suited for the season increasingly important. Restaurant owners and designers have to make careful furniture selections that not only match their brand look but also withstand the year-round variations in weather. The choices for outdoor eating spaces in 2024 will be influenced by several trends and factors, ranging from sustainability and aesthetic appeal to material durability and comfort.
SPRING
The outdoor eating season, marked by rejuvenation and vigor, begins in the spring. This season’s furniture selections frequently capture the beauty of the surrounding blossoms. Popular materials for furniture include aluminum, wicker, and rattan. These pieces are lightweight and straightforward to transport. These fabrics arouse feelings of lightness and freshness while being resilient to the unpredictable nature of spring rains.
The palette is dominated by pastel and bright hues, with green, pink, and yellow furniture and pillows that echo the blossoming flowers. Naturalistic patterns like flowers and leaves contribute to the season’s festive atmosphere. Modular furniture is trendy in the spring since it lets restaurant owners reconfigure chairs to suit different group sizes and make the most of available space as business starts to pick up.
SUMMER
Summer is the best time of year to dine outside, so you need furniture that will last as long as possible. You must choose materials that are resistant to heat, UV rays, and moisture so they don’t fade or degrade under the intense sun and intermittent downpours. One of the best options is teak, a hardwood valued for its resilience to weather and wear and tear. It is the perfect material for outdoor restaurant furniture because of its inherent oils, which shield it from insect damage and deterioration.
Summertime is also a time for metal furniture, especially stainless steel and aluminum with powder coating. These resilient materials require little care and upkeep. Restaurants frequently add cushions and pillows made of weather-proof materials, such as Sunbrella, which is resistant to mildew, mold, and fading, to improve comfort.
In summer, shade structures like pergolas, awnings, and umbrellas are crucial for protecting against the heat. These can have designs that complement the overall environment and be both ornamental and utilitarian. Outside fans and misting systems are widespread improvements that improve guests’ comfort on sweltering days.
FALL
Outdoor eating spaces must be altered when the weather gets colder, and the leaves change color to create a warm and inviting ambiance. To evoke the colors of the season, autumn furniture frequently uses natural materials and earthy tones. However, wicker and rattan are still in style with the addition of cozy blankets and cushions in warm colors like burnt orange, rich reds, and browns.
In the autumn, fire pits and outdoor heaters become focal points that serve as dining areas and sources of warmth for people. These finishing touches give outdoor areas a cozier feel and allow continued use throughout the cooler months. Wooden furniture, especially pieces constructed of cedar and redwood, is also preferred for its rustic beauty and weather resistance.
Extendable dining tables are helpful in the autumn because they can hold larger parties when people get together to celebrate the season. String lights and outdoor rugs are two items that improve the overall design and create a cozy, intimate atmosphere.
WINTER
Winter is the most challenging season for outdoor dining furniture, as materials that can resist severe weather are needed. In milder regions, some businesses decide to store their outside furniture at this time of year, but others still like to provide al fresco dining. Choosing the appropriate furnishings is essential for this.
Metal and treated wood are the best winter materials because they can withstand wind, snow, and ice. Although they might be weighty, powder-coated iron and stainless steel are especially strong. Teak remains a viable option due to its natural resistance to moisture and cold.
