Choosing the right contract fabric for hospitality projects is crucial, particularly when balancing the practical needs of upholsterers with the creative vision of the client. Fixed seating, which is often the focal point of restaurants, bars, or hotel lobbies, needs to blend durability with design. Here are our key considerations for selecting the perfect fabric:
1. Durability and Performance
Hospitality environments require fabrics that can withstand heavy use. Contract fabrics must meet high-performance standards, including resistance to abrasion, stains, and fading. We prioritise fabrics that meet industry standards such as the Martindale rub test (ideally 100,000+ rubs for heavy-duty use), ensuring the seating lasts for years without compromising on style.
2. Cleanability and Maintenance
The cleanability is critical for fabrics in high-traffic areas like lounges and dining spaces. Stain-resistant or fabrics that can be easily wiped down (such as vinyl and faux leather) are crucial for keeping seating looking fresh despite spills and stains. We prefer fabrics that are durable enough to withstand regular cleaning without fading or wearing out, reducing the need for frequent repairs and prolonging the seating’s lifespan.
3. Fire-Retardant Properties
Compliance with fire safety standards is essential in hospitality settings. We use fabrics that are pre-treated or certified to meet these regulations without compromising design or quality.
4. Pattern and Design
Designers make fabric choices to make a statement. Bold patterns, rich textures, and vibrant colours are essential in creating standout seating that aligns with brand image and the venue’s overall aesthetic.
Intricate, bold patterns, while beautiful, may pose challenges during cutting, sewing and installation, especially in creating seamless looks for fixed seating. Patterns may need careful alignment to ensure a cohesive look on curved seating or sectional arrangements.
Fabric Pattern Direction
Many patterned fabrics have a directional quality, with stripes being a common example. When working with these fabrics, it’s important to decide whether you want the pattern to run horizontally, vertically, or even diagonally.
For curved shapes, the fabric’s stretch (which can vary due to the weave) may limit how the pattern can be applied. This means that for certain pieces, the pattern’s direction could be dictated by the fabric’s flexibility rather than personal preference.
On seating with arms, the direction of the pattern may vary depending on the design. For some items, it may look better for the pattern to follow the length of the arm, while for others, it may be preferable for the pattern to run across it.
Large Repeat Patterns or Scenes
For fabrics with larger patterns or designs, you may want specific elements to align with certain features of the product, such as having a central part of the pattern positioned prominently. While this can create an impressive visual effect, it isn’t always possible due to the fabric’s design or the shape of the product. If you have particular requirements for how the pattern should be positioned, it’s best to consult with us at the beginning of the project to ensure the best outcome.
5. Fabric Workability and Seating Shape
A crucial consideration is how well the fabric can conform to different seating shapes. Fixed seating often includes curved backs, booths, or custom-built shapes that require fabrics to stretch and mould seamlessly. The flexibility and stretch of the fabric directly impact its suitability for certain seating designs.
- Soft Fabrics: Soft and flexible fabrics, like velvet or woven textiles, are ideal for complex or curved seating shapes. These fabrics stretch more easily and can mould smoothly around curves, contours, or tufted designs without wrinkling or pulling. They also tend to have more give, making it easier for upholsterers to work with these shapes and achieve a polished finish.
- Harder Fabrics: Vinyl and leather are more rigid and less pliable, making them suitable for flatter surfaces or simple seating shapes. While these materials are excellent for high-traffic, easy-to-clean areas, they can be challenging to work with on curved or intricately shaped seating. Upholsterers may encounter difficulties in achieving a smooth, wrinkle-free finish, and these fabrics may bunch or crease when used on complex curves. However, they are ideal for clean, modern designs with sharp angles or minimalistic forms.
Choosing the right fabric for the fixed seating shape is critical. We typically prefer softer fabrics for curved or highly contoured seating, as these allow for easier installation and a flawless appearance.
7. Environmental and Sustainability Concerns
Sustainability is becoming an important consideration in hospitality design. We are looking toward eco-friendly, recyclable, or responsibly sourced fabrics. Additionally, using durable, high-performance materials helps minimise environmental impact by reducing the frequency of replacements or repairs.
Conclusion
Selecting the right contract fabric for hospitality fixed seating is a balancing act between the practical demands of the venue and the design aspirations of the client. Durability, cleanability, and fire safety are critical, but the shape of the fixed seating and the fabric’s workability are equally important. Soft, flexible fabrics are better suited for curved seating, while harder materials like vinyl and leather excel in simpler, more angular designs. By carefully considering these factors, hospitality spaces can feature seating that not only looks visually striking but also stands up to heavy use and is easy to maintain.
