The Complete Guide on Choosing Materials for Bar Tables and Chairs

Why Solid Oak Is the Gold Standard

Oak is the benchmark when it comes to strong, reliable, good-looking furniture. It’s a hardwood that stands up to frequent use and still looks the part. The grain has character, the colour deepens with time, and it’s easy to finish in a way that protects without hiding the beauty of the wood.

It also works well with most bar interior styles, from modern to classic. Whether you want square tops, curved edges, or a heavy rustic feel, oak is versatile enough to meet the brief. At Tablemaker, we use only prime-grade oak, which is cut from the centre of the tree where the timber is most consistent and free from knots. That means fewer flaws, longer life, and a better result overall.

Unlike cheaper softwoods or MDF core products, oak doesn’t bend, warp, or sag under pressure. It stays solid, which is especially important for commercial tables that see daily use.

Protective Finishes for Longevity

The finish you choose makes a real difference to how your furniture holds up over time. We use hardwax oil as standard on our oak tables and tops. It soaks into the wood and gives it a natural, matt sheen that highlights the grain but also adds a layer of spill resistance.

Unlike varnish or lacquer, hardwax oil doesn’t create a shiny surface that cracks or peels. It penetrates the timber, which means it can be topped up or spot-treated if needed. This makes it ideal for bar and restaurant use, where maintenance has to be simple and effective.

Other finishes include polyurethane lacquer, which offers a plastic-like coating, but can sometimes feel too rigid or artificial. Natural oil is another option, but requires more frequent reapplication and less resistance to alcohol and heat.

In short, hardwax oil offers the best balance of looks, protection, and practicality for everyday use in commercial environments.

Customisation and Bespoke Options

Every venue has different needs, and off-the-shelf sizes don’t always fit. That’s why Tablemaker offers full customisation, from table dimensions to edge details and leg styles. If you need a narrower table for a tight alcove, or a long shared table for communal dining, we can build to your exact measurements.

We also match finishes and designs to your brand or design scheme. Want a Scandinavian look with pale ash tops and tapered legs? No problem. Prefer industrial with dark-stained oak and black metal A-frame legs? We’ve done it. Customers often send us photos or sketches and we work from those to create one-of-a-kind pieces.

Because our furniture is made to order in the UK, we can also accommodate special requests, like built-in cable management for tables doubling as laptop stations, or custom-height stools for non-standard bars.

Commercial-Grade Strength and Joinery

Bar tables and chairs need to be strong. Commercial spaces put furniture through far more use than a home would. That’s why we use joinery that holds together over time. Mortise and tenon, strong dowels, and brackets that don’t shift after months of use—these are the things that keep tables firm and wobble-free.

Even though our furniture is delivered flat pack for easier transport and access, we don’t cut corners. We design our frames to assemble tightly and stay strong, even when moved around regularly. Customers tell us their tables feel more solid than most fully assembled alternatives.

Best Materials for Different Bar Styles

Every bar has its own character, and your materials should support that. If your bar has a rustic feel, solid oak or reclaimed timber in natural or dark finishes can really suit the space. For more modern bars, think about cleaner lines—light ash, slim legs, maybe some metal frames.

For venues going for industrial styling, you might mix oak tops with raw steel legs or black powder-coated bases. If you’re furnishing a wine bar or lounge, velvet or leather upholstery with walnut or dark-stained oak works nicely. Even small changes in material can change the mood of a space.

Bar Chair Material and Ergonomics Guide

Comfort is just as important as style. A good bar chair isn’t just about looks—it needs to feel right too. Think about the seat height. Most bar tables are 100 to 110cm tall, so a chair height of 70 to 80cm usually works. Backrests, footrests and cushioned seats help people stay longer and feel relaxed.

Solid wood chairs are strong and dependable, but if you want extra comfort, consider padded seats in leather or commercial vinyl. They’re easier to clean and feel nicer over longer sittings. Some venues go for mixed materials—metal frames with timber seats, for example—to keep it smart but sturdy.

If your chairs need to meet UK hospitality safety standards, make sure your fabrics are Crib 5 compliant. All of ours meet that level, so you don’t need to worry about fire regulations.

Outdoor Bar Furniture Considerations

If your tables and chairs will be used outside, you’ll need to think about weather resistance. Solid oak can be used outdoors, but it needs the right treatment. Applying a UV-resistant finish and regular re-oiling will protect it from sun and rain. Teak and iroko are also good outdoor hardwoods because they contain natural oils that help repel moisture.

Steel frames should be galvanised or powder coated to prevent rust. Aluminium works well because it doesn’t corrode, and it’s lightweight so easier to move when rearranging outdoor spaces. Plastic may seem practical, but it often lacks the weight and sturdiness needed in windy or open areas.

Keep in mind that outdoor furniture needs to be easy to clean and fast to dry. Materials like polypropylene or metal mesh chairs work well in venues with limited storage since they can stay out year round. It’s also worth considering stacking designs to save space when not in use.