A Breath of Fresh Air
Spring is here - longer days, more sunshine, and beautiful outdoor furniture to enjoy it from.
The way we design outdoor spaces has evolved significantly. Customer, client, and employee expectations have risen, and since 2019 hospitality has transformed. More city centre areas are being pedestrianised, and restaurants and cafés are maximising every available inch - competing to stand out and create a memorable experience. This shift isn’t limited to hospitality, hotels, and leisure; we’re seeing it in education, student accommodation, and even workspaces - the newest addition to the outdoor landscape - outdoor furniture has never been more beautiful and we’re excited to tell you more about it.
Outdoor spaces need to feel special - an experience in their own right. Gone are the days of aluminium seats that burn the back of your legs or traditional pub benches that never seem to dry, leaving your trousers dusty green. Outdoor is no longer just the overspill, it’s the VIP space. With space at a premium, every exterior area needs to work hard. It’s the shop window, a social media moment, and a place to gather.
Making the most of an outdoor area isn’t just about layout, it’s about choosing the right furniture. Unlike interiors, outdoor furniture needs to tick a few extra boxes. Along with looking great and fitting the brand, it has to be functional, durable, weather-resistant, lightweight or heavy, stackable or fixed, the list goes on.
Every location comes with its own challenges. In some settings, furniture needs to be light and stackable to be stored away at night. In coastal areas, exposure to wind and sea air means materials must be heavy enough to stay put and treated to withstand salt exposure. Getting this balance right is key to both the longevity of the space and the furniture itself.
Choosing the right materials is essential, as each option has its pros and cons. Polypropylene remains a go-to for chairs as it’s highly durable, available in bold designs, and can be moulded into dining chairs, stools, and even outdoor sofas. Powder-coated steel offers weight, durability, and a vibrant colour palette, while aluminium is lightweight, sustainable, and often made from recycled materials. Wood, while requiring more care, can add warmth and a natural touch when responsibly sourced.
Advances in outdoor fabrics and foams mean external furniture can now be as comfortable and luxurious as indoor seating, with many manufacturers blending rope structures and upholstery for added style and comfort.
British and European manufacturers are pushing the boundaries with innovative materials, beautiful colour palettes, and clever technology. Momentum Contract Furniture has been specifying and supplying external furniture for over 20 years, working with luxury hotels, yachts, leisure parks, restaurants, and independent cafés to create spaces that are as practical as they are beautiful.
If you’d like to learn more about specifying outdoor products, or if you have a project that needs support, get in touch - we’d love to help make your outdoor world a comfier one!