As a resort or hotel owner, you know how important it is to create a welcoming, comfortable outdoor environment for your guests. Whether it’s for poolside lounging, outdoor dining, or event spaces, investing in durable, heavy-duty outdoor furniture is essential for maintaining a high-end look that stands up to the elements—and heavy use. You need outdoor furniture to be durable, stylish, and built to last.
It takes some planning to make sure your outdoor seating, tables, and lounge areas are ready to impress for the summer season. Here’s a guide to help you find the right heavy-duty outdoor furniture that fits your needs.
1. Look for Materials that Withstand the Weather
When selecting outdoor furniture for commercial use, the materials should be durable enough to withstand sun, rain, wind, and saltwater exposure (if you’re near the coast). If you live in a temperate climate, furniture materials should also withstand cold and freezing temperatures, even if you plan to store furniture indoors.
Here are some of the best materials for outdoor furniture.
- Aluminum: When aluminum outdoor furniture is either anodized or powder coated, it becomes rust-resistant and highly durable. Lightweight yet strong, aluminum furniture is perfect for year-round outdoor use. It’s also fully recyclable.
- Faux Wicker (Resin or HDPE): Synthetic wicker furniture is not only weatherproof but also resistant to fading, cracking, and mold, making it a low-maintenance option for outdoor areas. It looks great, it won’t be damaged by UV or moisture, and it also doesn’t feel as scratchy as natural wicker.
- Synthetic Rope: Woven seats and chair backs with faux rope are made with the same materials as faux wicker—either resin or HDPE (High Density Polyethylene). It’s extremely strong and non-toxic and won’t fray or deteriorate like natural hemp, straw, or linen rope will.
- Teakwood: Known for its natural beauty and resilience, teak is an excellent choice for creating an elegant, rustic look that holds up to the outdoors. Although high-priced, it can last for years if properly maintained.
- Sunbrella® Fabrics: Sunbrella is a high-performance outdoor fabric that is resistant to damage from stains, weather, mold, mildew, and UV rays. It’s an ideal fabric for cushions and pillows used in commercial patios, resorts, and outdoor dining areas.
2. Go for Heavy-Duty, Commercial-Grade Construction
Furniture in commercial spaces experiences much heavier use compared to residential areas, so you’ll need furniture that’s designed for heavy-duty performance. Look for pieces that are built to last with reinforced frames, hand-welded joints, and high-quality finishes. Check weight limits to make sure you won’t be held liable for flimsy furniture collapsing under some of your guests. Outdoor furniture that’s specifically labeled as “commercial-grade” or “contract-grade” is a good indicator of durability.
Vita by MityLite outdoor furniture is a great example of durable commercial outdoor furniture. Known for robust construction and appealing design, Vita offers a range of heavy-duty outdoor furniture, including tables, chairs, chaise lounges, outdoor sectionals, and more. Vita furniture is designed to handle the rigors of commercial use while maintaining a sophisticated aesthetic. From powder-coated aluminum frames to beautiful synthetic wicker, Vita outdoor furniture is engineered for both durability and comfort.
3. Think About Comfort and Functionality
While durability is key, your guests also want to feel relaxed and comfortable when enjoying your outdoor spaces. The best heavy-duty outdoor furniture doesn’t just hold up over time; it also provides an inviting place for guests to unwind. Comfort is particularly important in lounge and dining areas, such as pool areas, restaurants, and bars, and in various multipurpose guest spaces where guests will sit and stay awhile.
Look for the following things to promote comfort and functionality in outdoor areas.
- Ergonomically designed seating: Chairs, benches, and lounges with contoured backs and supportive cushions make a big difference in comfort.
- Modular options: Modular seating allows you to mix and match pieces to create versatile arrangements for any space, from poolside lounges to rooftop terraces. The Ash outdoor sectional is comprised of modular pieces, making it easy to move around and reposition.
- Easy-to-clean surfaces: Furniture with smooth, wipeable surfaces like aluminum, faux wood, or glass-topped tables will make it easier to maintain your outdoor spaces, especially in high-traffic areas.
- Durable Cushions: All Vita outdoor products with cushions are made with Sunbrella® fabric, which is stain-resistant and machine washable. To protect the water-resistant nature of the fabric, hang cushions to dry.
- Stackable Chairs: Since group sizes change throughout the day, it’s a good idea to get stackable dining chairs for your outdoor dining areas.
4. Choose a Style that Complements Your Resort’s Aesthetic
The furniture you choose should reflect your resort’s brand, whether it’s a sleek, modern aesthetic or a more rustic, tropical feel. Look for collections that complement your resort’s theme while providing the functional benefits you need.
Vita Outdoor Furniture offers a variety of styles—from chic, contemporary designs to timeless, coastal looks—so you can find the perfect fit for your space. Whether you’re outfitting a poolside bar or an upscale outdoor dining area, you’ll want pieces that enhance the experience for your guests while maintaining a cohesive, professional look.
5. Don’t Forget About Storage and Maintenance
Finally, consider how easy it will be to store and maintain your furniture, especially in regions with extreme weather conditions like snow, ice, high wind, and hurricanes. While heavy-duty outdoor furniture is designed to withstand wear and tear, it’s still a good idea to have a storage solution for the off-season. Many commercial-grade chairs and chaise lounges are stackable to make storage easier.
Regular cleaning and minor upkeep are also important to keep your furniture looking its best. Be sure to follow manufacturer care instructions and use appropriate cleaning products to extend the life of your investment.
Final Thoughts: Prepare for Summer Now
When it comes to finding the right heavy-duty outdoor furniture for your resort or commercial area, planning ahead is key. By investing in high-quality, weather-resistant furniture that offers both style and durability, you’ll ensure your guests have a memorable outdoor experience—without worrying about replacing furniture every few seasons.
Brands like Vita Outdoor Furniture provide a great selection of commercial-grade, weather-resistant options that will elevate your outdoor spaces and withstand the hustle and bustle of resort life. Commercial outdoor furniture orders usually require over 90 days to fulfill—so start planning now and be ready to impress when the warm weather hits!
