Running a pub or club demands more than just great service and a stellar menu—it requires an eye for design and an understanding of current trends. Embracing the latest trends in pub and club furniture can significantly enhance the ambience, attract a diverse clientele, and ultimately boost your business.
And the best part? Staying trendy doesn’t necessarily mean an expensive, full-scale renovation. By incorporating a few key pieces or elements, you can transform your space with minimal investment.
So, let’s take a look at three of the latest design trends in pub and club furniture that are making waves in the industry. Each of these trends offers unique characteristics and appeal, with real-world examples and practical tips on how to implement them in your venue.
- Retro Revival: Nostalgia Meets Modern Comfort
Characteristics and Appeal
Retro Revival is all about bringing the charm and character of past decades into the present. This trend combines vintage aesthetics with modern comfort, creating a nostalgic yet fresh atmosphere. Think bold colours, quirky patterns, mid-century furniture, and a mix of materials like chrome, wood, and leather. The appeal lies in its ability to evoke memories and create a warm, inviting space that feels both familiar and exciting.
Famous Locations Embracing the Trend
Globally, bars like the Broken Shaker in Miami and the Electric Bar & Diner in London have successfully adopted this style, blending old-school vibes with contemporary amenities. In Sydney, The Soda Factory is a prime example, with its 1950s diner-inspired decor and retro-themed events.
Application in Pubs and Clubs
Pubs: Introduce retro-inspired bar stools and lounge chairs, paired with vintage lighting fixtures. Consider adding a jukebox or vintage posters to enhance the theme. The key is to balance retro elements with modern touches, ensuring comfort and functionality are not compromised.
Clubs: For clubs, retro furniture can create themed nights or sections within the venue. Opt for bold, colourful seating arrangements and quirky decor items that evoke the spirit of a different era. Integrating retro elements can make your club stand out, providing a unique backdrop for social media-savvy guests.
- Industrial Chic: Raw and Refined
Characteristics and Appeal
Industrial Chic combines raw, unfinished elements with sleek, modern design. This trend often features exposed brick walls, metal accents, reclaimed wood, and utilitarian furniture. The appeal lies in its versatility and the way it creates a stylish yet unpretentious environment.
Famous Locations Embracing the Trend
The industrial look is popular in urban settings. Venues like The Grounds of Alexandria in Sydney and The Jane in Antwerp showcase this style beautifully, blending industrial elements with greenery and artistic touches to create a fresh and inviting atmosphere.
Application in Pubs and Clubs
Pubs: To achieve an industrial chic look in your pub, focus on materials. Use reclaimed wood for tables and bar tops, metal stools, and pendant lighting. Exposed ductwork and brick walls can add authenticity. Soft furnishings in neutral tones can balance the rawness, ensuring a comfortable setting for patrons.
Clubs: Clubs can use industrial chic to create a trendy, urban feel. Metal-framed furniture, concrete elements, and minimalist decor can transform your space. Consider using flexible, modular furniture that can be easily rearranged to accommodate different events and crowd sizes.
- Eco-Friendly and Sustainable: Green is the New Black
Characteristics and Appeal
Eco-friendly and sustainable design is not just a trend…it’s a movement. This approach emphasizes the use of sustainable materials, energy-efficient lighting, and environmentally responsible practices. The appeal is twofold—it attracts eco-conscious customers and showcases your commitment to sustainability.
Famous Locations Embracing the Trend
Globally, venues like the Alila Villas in Bali and Ovolo Woolloomooloo in Sydney are leading the way with their eco-friendly designs, using sustainable materials and green energy solutions, and setting an example for others in the industry.
Application in Pubs and Clubs
Pubs: Start with furniture made from reclaimed or sustainably sourced wood. Incorporate energy-efficient lighting and invest in durable, long-lasting pieces. Decorate with plants to add a touch of nature and improve air quality. Offering organic and locally sourced menu items can also align with the eco-friendly theme.
Clubs: In clubs, sustainability can be integrated through the use of recycled materials and energy-efficient systems. Opt for LED lighting and furniture made from recycled materials. Green walls or vertical gardens can add a striking visual element while promoting sustainability. Encourage guests to use reusable drinkware and reduce waste with proper recycling bins.
At Have a Seat, we understand the importance of staying ahead of the curve in the hospitality industry. Our showroom in Smithfield showcases a wide range of furniture that embraces current trends. Whether you’re looking to infuse a bit of retro charm, embrace the raw beauty of industrial chic, or commit to sustainable practices, our extensive collection has something for every taste and budget.
Our expert team is here to help you find the perfect pieces to enhance your pub or club. Visit our showroom to see these trends or explore our online store for more options. Let us help you transform your venue into a stylish, inviting space that your patrons will love.