Banquette seating is a type of built-in or fixed seating typically found in bench or booth formats. Frequently found in restaurants, cafes, bars, pubs and even homes, banquette seating provides a range of benefits to enhance the functionality and ambiance of a space.

Here's a closer look at what makes banquette seating such a compelling option:

• Maximised Seating Capacity:
  Unlike traditional chairs, banquette seating creates a continuous seating arrangement that can comfortably seat more people.
• Enhanced Ambience:
  The clean lines of banquette seating add a sophistication that is often lost in venues only featuring separate chairs. Typically upholstered, the long surface of fabric helps create an intimate and cosy environment. 
• Space-Saving Solution:
  Commonly found running against a wall, banquette seats don't sacrifice valuable floor space to provide maximum seating capacity.

The Different Types of Banquette Seating

Banquette seating is usually custom-made to fit the exact needs and requirements of a space. Bespoke banquette seating ensures that the furniture is fit for purpose, since the seat profile required for a restaurant differs to that needed for an office building for example. This presents an array of options to consider when incorporating banquette seating into an establishment. 

Here are the important fundamental options to contemplate when considering banquette seating for your space:

Freestanding Banquette Seating:

Offering unparalleled flexibility, freestanding banquette seating isn't permanently fixed to walls. This allows for creative placement and the ability to create designated areas within a larger space. Imagine using freestanding banquettes to define a cozy nook for intimate conversations or section off a vibrant bar area.

Built-In Banquette Seating:

As the name suggests, built-in banquette seating offers a more structured look by being permanently fixed to walls. This maximizes space utilisation, making them ideal for smaller restaurants or cafes where every square foot counts. Built-in banquettes also create a sense of flow and continuity within the space.

Banquette Seating Shapes and Sizes:

Banquette seating comes in various shapes and sizes to suit your layout and desired functionality. Popular options include:

Straight Banquette Seating

Straight banquette seats are a classic and work wonders against walls. The clean lines create a sense of order and are perfect for maximizing capacity in narrow spaces.

L-Shaped Banquette Seating

L-shaped banquette seating optimises challenging corner spaces, carving out cosy nooks.

U-Shaped Banquette Seating

U-shaped banquette seating creates a designated space to define a seating zone ideal for larger groups.

Circular Banquette Seating

Circular banquette seating offers a unique arrangement in a space with curves that encourage conversation amongst guests.

Browse our extensive selection of banquette seating styles here >>

Banquette Seating Materials and Durability

The material selection for banquette seating plays a crucial role in both aesthetics and functionality. With a variety of substrates and fabrics on offer, it is best to opt for materials that are:

• Hard-wearing: Robust materials in the frame, padding and upholstery of banquette seating is crucial to handle the wear and tear of everday use. 
• Easy to clean: Given that banquette seating is most commonly built-in, it is best to choose materials that are easily wiped clean.
• Stain-resistant: Prioritise stain-resistant materials, especially in high-traffic areas, to minimise cleaning and maintenance needs.

Additional Considerations For Banquette Seating

• Comfort: Choosing the right seat profile, level of padding and upholstery fabric all play into the comfort and longevity of banquette seating.
• Height and Depth: Ensuring banquette seats are the correct height and depth for the intended space is important for complimenting the supplementary furniture, as well as adhering to ergonomic rules and practises.
• Spacing: Depending on where the banquette seating will be placed, considerations such as power sockets within the plinths, or capping for radiators or grilles, may need to be made.

Your Partner in Supplying the Perfect Banquette Seating

If you're interested in banquette seating for your space, Atlas Contract Furniture is here to help. Contact us today to speak to one of our banquette seating experts who are ready to make your design a reality.