It's part of the human experience to co-mingle and often dine together. And what better way to share a meal with others than outdoors? Outdoor dining is a well-loved activity practiced worldwide. So much so a 2021 survey revealed that 27% of Americans are doing this more. (1)
That offers more reason to elevate outdoor dining spaces with commercial umbrellas. These aren't just for show; they're great decor pieces with many benefits. This article will explore how they make your outdoor dining experience so much better, plus some tips on how to choose the best umbrellas for your space.
Benefits of Commercial Umbrellas for Restaurants
An outdoor dining space should ideally always have a high-quality commercial umbrella. These are the reasons why.
Comfort and Usable Space
First things first, commercial umbrellas are perfect for alfresco dining because they provide ample shade. That, in turn, leads to more seating capacity with more usable square footage. When there's more shade, there's more room for people to sit and eat comfortably.
Versatile shade solutions from reputable commercial umbrella manufacturers ensure diners receive enough protection from sunlight and heat. The umbrellas are large and wide enough to keep you under the cooling shade for as long as the sun is out. So, even if you decide to eat outside when the sun is at an angle, rest assured you won't be sitting under direct sunlight as you indulge in your meal.
Commercial umbrellas are also fantastic covers for light rainshowers. You can enjoy a warm cup of coffee as you take refuge from sudden rainfall while remaining dry.
Enhanced Ambiance and Appeal
High-quality commercial umbrellas can boost the appeal and ambiance of alfresco dining. They make the space appear more sophisticated, especially if their design complements the overall aesthetic of the outdoor dining setup. Some styles may even suit different dining vibes, like classic market umbrellas for bistros and sleek, modern options for contemporary cafes.
The commercial umbrellas' colors also elevate outdoor dining spaces by being a branding opportunity. Customizing them to feature the restaurant's logo or signature colors makes the area more visually cohesive and pleasing to the eye.
Beyond their aesthetic appeal, commercial umbrellas contribute to setting the perfect mood for a relaxing and enjoyable dining experience. With options like integrated lighting features, you can create a warm and inviting outdoor ambiance that encourages guests to linger longer.
Durability and Functionality
Like different types of outdoor dining furniture, commercial umbrellas are designed to withstand harsh weather better than residential options and portable ones. They're sturdy enough to handle the elements, including strong winds, heavy rain, and intense sunlight.
Despite that, make sure you install them securely and fold them up if rain and wind become too extreme. Almost 7,379 patio umbrella-related injuries occurred from 2000 to 2019, with 27.5% of them caused by wind. So, it's also a priority to keep patrons and passersby safe from accidents and prevent damage to your outdoor furniture and restaurant due to a wrongly installed commercial umbrella. (2)
However, since they're made of durable materials, general maintenance is quite minimal. This makes saving time and money much easier as you don't have to clean, repair, or replace your commercial umbrellas constantly.
Cleaning up for closing time? Some umbrella options have easy-to-use opening mechanisms or tilting canopies, allowing more convenience for you and your staff.
Choosing the Right Commercial Umbrella
Now that you know how commercial umbrellas elevate outdoor dining spaces, you're ready to get a few ones of your own. Here's what you need to take note of.
Factors to Consider
Size
Size is the first factor you need to consider, especially if you're sprucing up your patio for the summer. Measure your outdoor dining area to determine what umbrella size best fits the space. At this stage, you can also determine how much shade you want for your tables and walkways.
Style
Next is style, which should also be at the top of your list. Choose an umbrella that complements your restaurant's overall design and creates the desired atmosphere. This would allow guests to generate positive feelings around your outdoor space. One study suggests that patrons perceive restaurants as more authentic and credible when they incorporate harmonious design features. (3)
Materials
Always consider commercial umbrellas made of durable materials and with features that suit your needs. For example, canvas offers classic style and UV protection, while heavy-duty acrylic provides maximum durability and fade resistance. Don't forget about wind resistance if your outdoor dining spaces are frequently exposed to the elements.
Base options
Consider base options, too. You can choose between freestanding, center pole, or wall-mounted umbrellas, depending on your available space and desired functionality.
Additional Considerations
Want to keep the party going after dark? Look for umbrellas with built-in lighting and heating. They'll create a warm, inviting atmosphere that lets your guests linger even on chilly evenings.
Turn your umbrellas into branding tools! Personalize them with your restaurant's logo or signature colors. This creates a cohesive look that reinforces your brand identity for diners.
To Conclude
Who knew the humble commercial umbrella could do so much to elevate outdoor dining spaces? It completes the comfort of alfresco dining by providing cover from sun and rain. Most importantly, it's built to last, with durability and functionality that other shade options simply can't match.
So, take advantage of commercial umbrellas! Your outdoor area could become comfier and more inviting, perfect for those who want to eat outside more often.
References
1. "2021 Trend Report: Outdoor Living Space is "More Valuable Than Ever Before"," Source: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/2021-trend-report-outdoor-living-space-is-more-valuable-than-ever-before-301239957.html
2. "Beach and patio umbrella injuries treated at emergency departments," Source: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0022437521001249
3. "How do restaurant atmospherics influence restaurant authenticity? An integrative framework and empirical evidence," Source: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0969698921002952
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