When furnishing your pub or club, every detail matters—from the seating arrangements to the durability of your tables. One of the most critical yet overlooked components is the table base you choose. This foundation determines stability, longevity, and overall functionality, making them an important investment for any hospitality venue in Sydney.
At Have a Seat, we understand the importance of choosing the right materials for your pub table bases. Whether you’re after something classic, sleek, or industrial, we’ve rounded up the top 5 materials that stand out for durability, ease of maintenance, and practicality.
- Cast Iron: A Classic Choice for Strength and Stability
Cast iron has long been a go-to material for pub table bases, and for good reason. Known for its exceptional weight and sturdiness, cast iron bases provide superior stability, reducing the risk of tables tipping over in high-traffic environments.
Why It’s a Top Choice:
- Extreme Durability – Cast iron is highly resistant to wear and tear, making it perfect for busy pubs and clubs.
- Timeless Aesthetic – Its vintage charm fits seamlessly into classic pub interiors or modern industrial-style settings.
- Heavyweight Stability – Unlike lightweight materials, cast iron prevents tables from shifting, even when patrons lean on them.
Considerations:
Cast iron is heavier than other materials, making it less maneuverable. However, its sturdiness far outweighs this minor drawback.
- Stainless Steel: Modern, Sleek, and Corrosion-Resistant
For contemporary pubs, bars, and hospitality venues, stainless steel is a top contender. This material is favored for its sleek, polished appearance and exceptional resistance to rust and corrosion—ideal for outdoor settings or areas prone to spills.
Why It’s a Top Choice:
- Resistant to Rust & Corrosion – Perfect for venues near Sydney’s coastline where humidity and salty air can be harsh on materials.
- Easy to Clean – A quick wipe-down keeps stainless steel looking pristine.
- Lightweight & Maneuverable – Easier to move and rearrange compared to cast iron.
Considerations:
While stainless steel is stylish and easy to maintain, it may show fingerprints or smudges more than other materials, so regular cleaning is a must.
- Aluminum: Lightweight and Rustproof for Maximum Flexibility
If your venue requires adaptable furniture that can be moved around frequently, aluminum table bases are an excellent choice. This material is lightweight, rustproof, and highly resistant to outdoor elements, making it ideal for alfresco dining areas.
Why It’s a Top Choice:
- Incredibly Lightweight – Allows for easy rearrangement of tables when accommodating different group sizes.
- Weather-Resistant – Won’t rust or corrode, making it perfect for outdoor beer gardens or rooftop bars.
- Modern Appeal – Works well in contemporary settings with an industrial or minimalist aesthetic.
Considerations:
Because aluminum is lighter than other metals, it may not provide the same level of stability as cast iron. To counter this, many aluminum bases are designed with a broader footprint for added balance.
- Powder-Coated Steel: The Perfect Balance of Strength and Style
For those seeking a balance between durability and design, powder-coated steel table bases offer the best of both worlds. Steel is already strong, but the addition of a powder-coated finish provides extra protection against scratches, moisture, and everyday wear.
Why It’s a Top Choice:
- Highly Durable – Withstands heavy usage in high-traffic hospitality venues.
- Customizable Aesthetic – Available in various colors and finishes to match your pub’s theme.
- Scratch & Corrosion Resistant – The powder coating provides an extra layer of protection against spills and scuffs.
Considerations:
While powder-coated steel is more resistant to rust than untreated steel, it’s still best suited for indoor or semi-covered outdoor areas.
- Brass: A Luxurious and Stylish Statement Piece
If you’re looking to elevate your venue with a touch of elegance, brass table bases are a standout choice. Often associated with high-end cocktail bars and boutique venues, brass exudes warmth and sophistication.
Why It’s a Top Choice:
- Luxurious Aesthetic – Perfect for creating a vintage, art deco, or high-end atmosphere.
- Strong & Durable – Brass is naturally strong and resistant to impact.
- Aging Beautifully – Over time, brass develops a unique patina, adding to its character.
Considerations:
Brass requires more maintenance than other metals to retain its shine. Regular polishing will keep it looking pristine, but for those who appreciate a more aged, rustic look, the patina effect can be a selling point.
Finding the Right Table Base for Your Pub or Club
Choosing the right table base material for your pub or club can have a significant impact on your venue’s longevity, functionality, and overall aesthetic. Whether you need sturdy cast iron, sleek stainless steel, or versatile aluminum, each material offers unique benefits tailored to different hospitality needs.
At Have a Seat, we stock a wide range of high-quality table bases and commercial furniture to suit your needs.
Visit our Smithfield showroom to explore our collection in person, or shop online today!