In the restaurant business, terraces were long used primarily to increase seating capacity. When the weather turned nice, a few tables and chairs were moved out onto the sidewalk or into the courtyard, and the venue could simply accommodate more guests. In recent years, however, this approach has changed dramatically. Today, outdoor spaces are part of the brand at many hospitality venues and a defining element of the guest experience.

The terrace is not just a functional addition, but an extension of the dining area into the open air. It must convey the same atmosphere, comfort, and character as the interior. According to Gabriella Tóth, head of Coninvest’s furniture division, clear trends have emerged in the world of restaurant terraces over the past three to five years.

Natural materials and comfort taken to a new level

The demand for a natural aesthetic is becoming increasingly evident in outdoor furniture. Wooden surfaces, woven textures, rope structures, and natural shades—sand colors, terracotta tones, and shades of green—are now defining elements on many patios. However, this is not merely an aesthetic issue. Natural-looking materials and colors contribute to an atmosphere in which guests are happy to spend more time.

Comfort has also taken on a new dimension. In the hospitality industry, the unspoken goal of furniture used to be to prevent guests from staying too long. Today, the exact opposite is happening. Restaurants and bars are increasingly striving to encourage guests to stay longer, so they use ergonomically designed chairs, cushioned seating, and premium, weather-resistant fabrics.

At the same time, modularity has become an important consideration. Terrace furnishings increasingly consist of elements that are easy to rearrange. This allows the space to be adapted to different occasions or seasons, and the atmosphere of the guest area can be refreshed more easily.

Sustainable materials and new technological solutions

Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important factor in the design of outdoor furniture for the hospitality industry. Recycled aluminum, PET-based textiles, and composite materials are now appearing more frequently even in the premium segment. These materials are durable, practical, and represent a more environmentally friendly choice.

Technological advancements have also reached the world of outdoor furniture. This season, for example, seating options have emerged that feature built-in charging ports or even incorporate heating and cooling elements. Additionally, furniture lines made from bio-composite materials are becoming increasingly popular, where the design evokes the look of natural fibers while the structure remains modern and durable.

The terrace as a continuation of the brand

Restaurant owners are increasingly mindful of the relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces. Today, the terrace is no longer a separate zone, but rather part of the brand’s narrative.

Three aspects become particularly important during the design process. The first is visual unity: the colors, materials, and shapes used indoors are often echoed in the outdoor space. The second is functional harmony, meaning that guests experience the same sense of comfort on the terrace as they do inside. The third is storytelling. A well-designed terrace conveys the character and atmosphere of the place from the very first moment.

In this process, design increasingly involves complex collaboration. Hospitality venues require consulting, visual design, and the compilation of material and color samples to ensure that the outdoor space truly aligns with the brand’s image.

Why does it matter what kind of furniture you put on the terrace?

In the hospitality industry, furniture isn’t just a matter of design. It’s also a piece of equipment that must withstand daily, intensive use.

Premium-category patio furniture is typically made of powder-coated aluminum, rope, or solid panels, featuring UV-resistant surfaces and ergonomic designs. These can be reliably used for up to five to ten years, while remaining comfortable and enhancing the character of the guest area aesthetically.

Cheaper furniture, on the other hand, wears out faster, is less comfortable, and often gives off a mass-produced vibe. While their price may seem more favorable in the short term, in the long run they often require more replacements and involve more compromises.

It’s the details that make the terrace experience complete

The character of an outdoor living space isn’t defined by furniture alone. Accessories play just as important a role.

Large planters, mobile green walls, or aromatic plants visually enrich the space while enhancing the atmosphere with scents and natural elements. Climate comfort can be ensured by infrared patio heaters, misting cooling systems, or smart-controlled solutions, allowing the outdoor space to remain usable for longer.

Shading technology is also a key consideration. Electric or solar-powered pergolas, UV-filtering sun sails, and textile membrane solutions are both practical and aesthetically define the character of the space.

Uniqueness is the strongest differentiator

In Hungary, it is still common to see restaurants copying each other’s ideas. After a successful terrace design is introduced, it is not uncommon for the same furniture or layout to appear in multiple locations shortly thereafter. In contrast, numerous examples abroad show the exact opposite trend. Every establishment strives to develop its own character and consciously avoids repetition.

There is also a story circulating in the industry—now considered legendary—regarding Déryné Bistro. When the restaurant noticed that another establishment had essentially copied its terrace furniture, they reportedly called the owner and offered them their own used terrace furniture. The remark reportedly went something like this: if it’s going to be the same anyway, they’d rather look for something new. The story clearly illustrates just how important uniqueness can be for a restaurant.

A thoughtfully designed outdoor space is not only more comfortable for guests but also provides a more memorable experience. And ultimately, that is exactly why guests return.