2020 Hospitality Seating Trends
Whether it be for work or relaxation, seating is one of the most frequently-used pieces of FF&E by hotel guests. With their ubiquity and importance, ensuring that chairs and sofas are aesthetically pleasing, functional for their space, and built to withstand heavy usage is key. The following trends will help make your seating work well for both operational and guest needs alike.
Blast From the Past
Similar to what happens in the fashion industry, interior design trends in hospitality tend to enjoy success for a while, go out of style, and then return years later. Right now we are seeing an emergence of seating styles from the ‘80s, particularly those with mid-century modern characteristics. Features such as tubular metalwork, layered fabric application, mixed patterns, and leather details are also popular in hotel seating currently.
Back to the Future
On the other side of the spectrum, hospitality seating trends are incorporating updated and futuristic elements. Innovative shapes and structures are becoming more commonplace. Many lounge chairs feature rounded backs for a more contemporary aesthetic. Guestroom seating is moving away from ergonomic chairs with castors towards more modern-looking four-legged chairs.
New technologies, too, have made an impact on hotel seating. There’s been a rise of seating with USB charging ports embedded directly in them. This feature is typically seen on larger, affixed pieces rather than standalone chairs as electrical needs limit movement of seats.
Creating a Communal Space
Today’s guests are much more apt to congregate, whether it be for coworking or socialization. Seating in hotel public areas is now much more flexible as a result of this change in guest behavior. Modular pieces in a banquette style are a great way to include large sofa-type seating while still maintaining flexibility. Soft, backless ottomans are another way to implement moveable seating arrangements in your property.
Longer Lifespan
From material selections to fabric treatments, hoteliers are using a variety of techniques to extend the longevity of their property’s seating. While wooden legs were once a staple for chairs, there’s been a rise of metal-legged chairs in recent years as metal is far more durable than wood. Metal now has a finish option that mimics the look of wood grain for design schemes in which wood is a better aesthetic fit. Many brands now require the application of fabric treatments such as Crypton or Alta to prevent soiling and stains from ruining seating.
Are you ready to implement the latest design trends in seating in your property for a fresh, updated look? The procurement experts at Innvision help hoteliers make the best FF&E selections for their property’s specific needs, working closely with clients from the beginning of a hotel project all the way through to completion. Reach out to Innvision Hospitality today for end-to-end design and procurement services that exceed hoteliers’ expectations.
