When deciding what types of furniture you need for your business fit-out, there are a range of factors to consider, to make sure you make the right decision. With a bit of time considering the pros and cons of your options, you can avoid costly mistakes, false economies, or choosing totally unsuitable items. Instyle Seating has come up with some pointers to help you along the way. We are always here to help if you want more detailed or personalised guidance. Let us make it an easier decision for you to make!
Let’s begin with table tops.
I want table tops. How do I figure out the “best” solution?
There are lots of options to choose from for table tops, from natural timber to composite and man-made materials. The starting point may be where the table tops are to be used and for what purpose. You may want timber tops for alfresco tables and bars, but it is important to remember timber was not made to be a table – it was made to be a tree! By nature, wood is a porous material. It reacts to heat and cold and absorbs moisture. In restaurants, cafes, bars pubs and clubs, timber table and bar tops are great if maintained and cared for in the right way. The durability of the tops will be determine by the hardness of the species of timber from which it is made, the lacquer protecting the top, their treatment, use and care. If your staff use gentle cleaning products like warm soapy water, clean ups spills as they occur, avoid really hot plates and cups or use table cloths, coasters or placemats, then timber tops should endure over time. A good rule-of-thumb is if an object is too hot or cold to hold comfortably, it’s not safe to place directly on the timber top. Small scratches, marks, wear and tear may be buffed away or treated and may in fact, add to the overall character and beauty. Moisture left on a timber top for longer than 5 minutes may result in a “cloudy” stain, caused by the swelling of the wood under the varnish. Solid timber table tops can be sanded back and revarnished annually in high-traffic areas. Even if not exposed to moisture, solid timber tops, with their porous organic nature, will be susceptible to changes in humidity and climate. They can dry out and crack in offices, restaurants and businesses using air conditioning and heating and even from exposure to indirect Australian sunlight (close to windows) for long periods of time. If the tops are veneer rather than solid, caution should be taken when considering their suitability, use and longevity. They may look fine and be cheaper to buy at the outset, but the layers of wood held together by glue can warp and come apart if exposed to the constant high-traffic, moisture and spills in hospitality. For areas with limited exposure to moisture such as meeting and reception rooms, for use as side or coffee tables in hotels, businesses or commercial lobbies, waiting or break out areas in some public spaces like libraries, veneer will be less of a concern.
I need furniture that is ok for outside… Can I use timber?
For outdoors, table tops must be able to endure the harsh and extreme elements of the Australian climate with sun, rain, wind, salt water, changes in temperature and humidity. Timber table tops are an option if from teak and made “fit for purpose”. Other types like American Oak, Tasmanian Oak, Malaysian Pinewood may not endure harsh weather, even under canopies and awnings, without risk. Man-made or composite alternatives such as laminated tops may also be compromised if used outside, with the laminate surface warping and “lifting off” over time. The best table tops for outdoors for hard-wearing longevity are Compact Laminate or Resin. Even then, dark or deep colours (Blacks and Reds) should be avoided as they can fade from sun exposure.
Now that I understand a bit more about timber…..Can I get the “look” of timber tops without the worry?
Technology is evolving constantly, with man-made alternatives to natural materials now much more refined, sophisticated and worth consideration. Timber, stone and metal looks and textures are all possible with the latest resin, laminate and compact laminates. This makes the aesthetics of materials not typically an option for outdoors or indoor high-traffic areas achievable without sacrificing budget, functionality and performance or coming across as a cheap copy! You can get the look of a stone or timber table top that’s light weight, water, temperature and sun resistant, ideal for high traffic commercial use indoors and out, with the Gentas resin range. Ravine compact laminate is ideal if you want the look and feel of a timber table top suitable for full-outdoor use, even in high traffic bars, pubs and clubs. Great for the alfresco areas, beach side and beer gardens loved so much in Australian hospitality, and when matched with the right base (304# stainless steel, of course!) will last a long time.
I have a lot of things to buy and need to stick to a budget… What can I afford?
Budget is always a consideration, even when it hasn’t appeared to be! Even high-end fit-outs of offices, hotels, clubs, pubs and restaurants have a budget to adhere to with the dreams of many stakeholders faced by harsh realities. The benefit of professional designers and fit-out services is their skill in planning, sourcing and procurement that “magically” achieve the vision with respect to budget. There are price options to suit all budgets without compromising style, quality or the type of furniture you want. You should never feel forced to spend beyond your means to achieve the look you need. Buying table tops from those that are a standard size and in-stock will usually be the more affordable option, and is possible even with timber. Any time a table top (or any other furniture for that matter) requires “tweaking” or some customisation be it size, shape, colour or finish, cost may be added. Instyle Seating has American Oak, Ash, Malaysian Pinewood and resin table tops all in stocked in standard sizes. Table tops of a different material, size or shape are not necessarily price prohibitive, and come with a four-week lead time. They may cost bit more, but will be made exactly to your specifications.
In Summary…
Think… Determine the ”how, where and for what” will the table tops be used
Consider… Your first choice may not be your best option
Plan… How much time, care and maintenance are you prepared to commit
Avoid… Using indoor table tops for outdoor use may be a false economy
Respect… Follow the recommendations for use, care and maintenance
Share…Train and educate staff on the correct use, care and maintenance
Inquire… If in doubt, need any help, advice or guidance, contact Instyle Seating!
