Chairs for terraces are professional outdoor chairs for the outdoor areas and summer terraces of restaurants, cafés and bars. A terrace chair must be resistant to weather conditions — moisture, ultraviolet sunlight and temperature fluctuations — while maintaining an attractive appearance. In climatic conditions, the material of an outdoor chair is crucial: cold winters, heavy rain and intense summer sun place high demands on durability. Aluminium, polymer and polyrattan chairs are the most suitable choices. The ability to stack them allows chairs to be stored compactly at the end of the season, saving warehouse space. BHS offers chairs for terraces as part of the chairs range to HoReCa businesses across Europe.
See also furniture for terraces and tables for terraces. BHS helps restaurant and café terrace operators choose chairs that match the establishment’s style, climatic requirements and seasonal storage options.
Choosing chairs for terraces differs from choosing indoor chairs — the priority is resistance to weather conditions and easy maintenance, not just aesthetics. Properly selected terrace chairs last several seasons and maintain an attractive appearance despite changing weather conditions.
Materials for outdoor terraces
Aluminium chairs are lightweight, rust-resistant and durable in rain — an ideal choice for outdoor terraces. The aluminium structure does not corrode even in heavy rain, and its surface can be polished or painted in various shades. Aluminium chairs are easy to move and are usually stackable, which is important for storage at the end of the season. The lifespan and maintenance costs of aluminium make it an optimal choice for HoReCa outdoor areas.
Polymer (polypropylene or polycarbonate) chairs are lightweight, stackable and resistant to UV radiation and moisture. High-quality polymer does not crack in the cold and does not lose colour in the sun even after several seasons outdoors. Easy to clean with water or a pressure washer. Popular on café terraces with a modern or minimalist aesthetic.
Stainless steel chairs are heavy but very durable — more suitable for terraces with a seaside atmosphere, where chairs must stay in place even in strong wind. Steel chairs are often combined with upholstered seats or wooden elements, giving them a warmer appearance while maintaining outdoor durability.
Polyrattan (synthetic wicker) chairs look elegant and natural but are much more resistant to moisture and UV radiation than natural wicker. Polyrattan models are often combined with aluminium frames, ensuring both structural durability and lightweight, stackable design.
Seasonality and storage
For most outdoor terrace chairs, seasonal indoor storage during winter is recommended to extend their lifespan. Aluminium and polymer models withstand winter well, but mechanical damage from ice and snow weight can accelerate wear. Storage protects primarily against unnecessary wear and preserves the chairs’ aesthetic appearance for the next season.
Stacking and warehouse logistics
Restaurants and cafés with terraces often need 30–100 chairs or more. The ability to stack is an important practical advantage — a stack of 8–10 chairs saves significant warehouse space. Aluminium and polymer chairs are usually stackable, making daily space reconfiguration and end-of-year storage easier. BHS offers a wide range of stackable chairs for terraces.
Cleaning and maintenance
Terrace chairs must be cleaned regularly, as they accumulate dust, pollen and other pollutants outdoors. Aluminium chairs can be cleaned with a damp cloth or pressure washer using a neutral detergent. Polymer chairs allow more aggressive cleaning with pressurised water. Polyrattan chairs should be cleaned with a soft sponge and mild soapy water.
Design and terrace aesthetics
The aesthetics of terrace furniture influence customers’ first impression of an establishment. Stylistic harmony between chairs and tables creates a cohesive visual image for the terrace and strengthens the establishment’s brand. See also tables for terraces to create a coordinated terrace interior. Restaurants with terraces often use chairs and tables from the same collection, ensuring a harmonious visual ensemble that leaves a good impression on visitors.
Stability and safety
Outdoor chairs must be stable on various surfaces — tiles, paving stones, wooden planks or concrete. Adjustable leg feet allow the chair to be adapted to uneven surfaces, preventing slipping and wobbling. In spring and autumn, strong winds are common — it is important that chairs are sufficiently stable or can be quickly removed. BHS advises on stability requirements according to the specific terrace configuration.
Number of seats and terrace planning
To use terrace space efficiently, it is important to choose chairs with an optimal width. A standard terrace chair requires 50–60 cm width per seat. More compact models with a side width of 44–48 cm allow more seats to be accommodated. When planning a terrace, it is important to provide comfortable pathways between tables for staff movement — a minimum of 90 cm. BHS helps plan the layout of terrace furniture and calculate the optimal number of seats for a given area.
Frequently asked questions
Which materials are the most durable for outdoor climate?
Aluminium and high-quality polymer — lightweight, stackable, resistant to rain and UV. BHS helps choose.
Should terrace chairs be stored in winter?
It is recommended to store them indoors to extend their lifespan and maintain their appearance. BHS advises on solutions.
Why choose BHS?
BHS – Baltic HoReCa Solutions supplies professional equipment for restaurants, cafés, hotels and canteens: more than 20,000 products from many manufacturers. Our specialists help you choose the right equipment and spare parts for your kitchen or bar.
Delivery
We deliver across the European Union. Delivery time and cost depend on the order volume and destination — contact the BHS team for an exact price and lead time.