Why choosing hotel and contract chairs is different
Selecting hotel and contract chairs is a very different job from buying furniture for a home. In HoReCa projects, chairs are used many times a day, moved constantly, stacked and cleaned. On top of that, a single order often means hundreds of identical units delivered in the same colour and the same dimensions. The decision therefore has to weigh durability, ease of maintenance, regulatory expectations and the quality of communication with the manufacturer, not just design.
Durability: frame, joints and finish
The frame largely determines how long a contract chair lasts. Metal frames with welded joints tend to loosen far less over time than screwed timber constructions. Electrostatic powder coating gives a surface that resists scratches and knocks better than a single coat of wet paint. When comparing models, ask:
- What is the frame material, tube profile and joint type?
- Are the floor glides replaceable, and are there options for your flooring?
- Can the upholstery be removed and recovered later?
- Is a stackable version available for banquet and meeting rooms?
Fire safety and cleaning requirements
Rules on the fire behaviour of upholstered furniture in hotels, restaurants and conference areas vary by country and by project. The sound approach is to clarify at the start which local regulations apply and what the architect’s specification requires for fabrics and foams. Request the relevant test reports through the fabric and foam supply chain and share them with the manufacturer during quoting.
For hygiene, surfaces that can be wiped frequently are the priority. Powder-coated metal, faux leather and stain-resistant upholstery fabrics make breakfast rooms and restaurants easier to maintain. Check the fabric supplier’s data sheet for abrasion resistance and approved cleaning products.
Consistency across large quantities and custom colours
The most common problem on large projects is visible variation in colour or size between batches. To prevent it:
| Topic | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Frame colour | Specify the RAL code and gloss level (matt, satin, gloss) in writing |
| Fabric | Use a fixed fabric code and, where possible, a single dye lot |
| Dimensions | Lock seat height and width to the approved sample |
| Repeat orders | Record model, colour and fabric codes for future top-ups |
| Delivery | Plan labelling by floor, room or venue |
Working with a manufacturer that produces in its own facility makes it easier to manage custom powder-coat colours and project-specific fabrics in one place. Planning lounge chairs for the lobby and armchairs for restaurants and meeting rooms in the same palette creates a coherent look across the property.
Sampling and approval
On contract projects it is standard practice to approve a sample before mass production. A typical process looks like this:
- Share the specification, quantity list and floor plans with the manufacturer.
- Agree on model, frame colour and fabric options.
- Receive a sample chair and test it in the real space.
- Use the approved sample as the reference for production.
- Fix the delivery and installation schedule around the opening date.
Lead times, sample terms and pricing depend on the project scope, so confirm them directly with the manufacturer.
ASF Sandalye manufactures metal-frame chairs in its own facility in Sancaktepe, Istanbul, offers custom powder-coat colours and project fabrics, and ships across Turkey and abroad. For a wholesale quote on your hotel or contract project, contact us via WhatsApp or phone.
Common questions
What is the most durable material for hotel chairs?
For heavy-use areas, a welded metal frame with a powder-coated finish loosens less over time and resists knocks well. Upholstery that can be removed and recovered also extends service life.
How are fire requirements set for contract chairs?
They vary by country and project. Clarify the applicable local regulations and the architect’s specification first, then request fabric and foam test reports through the supply chain.
How do you avoid colour differences across hundreds of chairs?
Specify the frame colour by RAL code and gloss level in writing, use a single fabric dye lot where possible and have production matched to an approved sample.