The first step in selecting the best materials and furniture for a high-traffic commercial space is to identify the purpose and use of the space. What kind of activities will take place there? Who will use it and how often? What are the expectations and preferences of your clients and customers? These questions will help you determine the level of durability, comfort, and functionality you need for the space. For example, if you are designing a hotel lobby, you might want to choose materials and furniture that are easy to clean, resistant to stains and scratches, and comfortable for guests to sit and wait.
Interior design is commonly associated with residential designers that specifically concentrate on space planning and design for a home or any personalized space. However, commercial interior design, also referred to as contract design, has a niche of interior design for space planning as well. Such specialized interior designers plan spaces for hotels, restaurants, corporations, gyms, hospitals, medical facilities, and schools in the most adroit and meticulous way.
Before making your purchases, you first need to learn about the type of furniture, the manufacturing process, and the product itself. Commercial furniture is known for its high durability and ability to resist against wear and tear from constant usage for long periods of time. Because of its longevity, superior construction, and professional appearance, owners of commercial spaces have strong preferences for commercial grade furniture.
Quality in furniture is an important business aspect to commercial environments with high foot traffic. Functionality, durability and style define the quality of furniture. For instance, various hardwoods are used for the wood seating components, assembled together with Mortise & Tenon jointing which guarantee lasting strength and durability. High density foam padding, premium vinyl and stain resistant fabrics are offered in a variety of colors for the padded seating.
In comparison, furniture for residential use doesn’t need to withstand high levels of daily use and abuse as they are used to serve mainly one family and occasional visitors. While the furniture is made to last, it’s not as strong, durable and easy to maintain when compared to commercial furniture.
Furniture designed for commercial spaces are often crafted with heavy use in mind. Because commercial furniture is meant to last at least for 10 years, the furniture designs have smaller variations. They are typically more neutral in design as they need to be fluid enough to adapt to different interior design trends. Customization options are available for most commercial furniture though allowing you to choose color options and upholstery.
In Contrast, designs on residential furniture are extremely varied and aim to be stylish, follow the most current trends or be as classy as the home owner wants them to be. They can be highly ornamental or stark and modern. There are countless designs to fit each and every individual taste.
Though commercial and residential furniture items may look similar, durability stands in between them. However, commercial furniture must be built to meet durability standards for the rigorous demands in the food service and hospitality industry. Items made from metal are finished in a protective powder coat that stands against rusting, flaking, and scratches. Fabric or other materials used as upholstery for the restaurant seating should be fire retardant and stain resistant.
Residential furniture doesn’t necessarily have to adhere to any specific coding or regulations and are mainly bought for their visual appeal. This is not to say all residential furniture is flimsy or unsafe but it certainly be outlasted by its commercial grade counterpart.