How to Specify Your Custom Built-In Seating Design
Are you a general contractor, millworker, interior designer, or architect in need of custom-built seating solutions for your next project? When it comes to creating booth or banquette seating, there’s much more involved than just deciding on the height and width. From selecting the base to choosing the upholstery design, every detail matters to ensure the final product meets your expectations. At QA Group, we’re here to walk you through the process and make sure your custom built-in seating is exactly what your project needs.
In this post, we’ll break down the various components of booth and banquette seating and the terminology we use to help you specify your design. Whether you’re designing for a restaurant, hotel lobby, or corporate office, understanding these terms will simplify your consultation with us and lead to a smoother manufacturing process.
The Basics of Custom Built-In Seating
When it comes to custom booth and banquette seating, the choices can be overwhelming. To help you get started, we categorize our specifications into four main areas: the base, seat, inside back, and outside back. Each of these components can be customized in various ways, and understanding the options will ensure a seamless design process.
Let’s dive into each category to give you a better understanding of what’s possible.
1. The Base
The base of your booth or banquette serves as the essential foundation upon which everything else is built, consisting of two key parts: the upper base and the lower base. We recognize the importance of this structure, as it must be both sturdy and durable to support the entire seating arrangement.
The lower base, also known as the recessed base or toe kick, provides a solid foundation for the banquette while also making housekeeping easier by preventing objects and dust from accumulating underneath. This base is typically recessed to allow for comfortable foot and heel placement while seated. The depth of this recess can be customized, but it must be carefully designed to ensure the seating remains stable and doesn’t tip forward.
The upper base, or apron as some call it, acts as a separation between the lower base (or legs) and the seat. It can serve as a decorative element or as a functional component where a removable seat rests or where the legs connect. Depending on your design preferences, the upper base can feature exposed wood or be fully upholstered. While not always a necessary component—since some banquettes have tight seats extending directly to the lower base—it adds a unique touch to the overall look.
We offer a variety of options for both the upper and lower bases, including different heights, materials, and finishes. Your choice of base will significantly influence the look and functionality of your seating, making it an important aspect to consider in your overall design.
2. The Seat
The seat of the banquette is where comfort and functionality come together, making it a crucial element in the overall design. Whether it’s an upholstered seat with cushioned support or a solid surface like exposed wood, the seat’s design impacts both comfort and durability.
At QA Group, we offer a range of seating options to suit your needs. Most upholstered seats include a support system consisting of polyurethane foam over steel springs or simply foam over a solid substrate, such as upholstered pads. Our designs are crafted with precision, considering factors like seat height and firmness to ensure an optimal experience. If the seat is too high, guests may find their feet dangling uncomfortably; if too low, they may struggle to get up. The right firmness is also essential—too soft, and the fabric may stretch prematurely; too hard, and guests might not want to sit for long.
With over 80 years of experience, QA Group uses only the highest-quality materials to construct our seats. For example, we use “no sag” sinuous springs in our upholstered seats to guarantee durability and comfort. While cheaper methods like webbing may seem cost-effective, they often lead to premature wear and tear, resulting in additional maintenance or even failure over time. Our commitment to quality ensures that your banquette seats will provide lasting comfort and support.
3. The Inside Back
The inside back of the booth or banquette is a key element that significantly influences both the comfort and aesthetic appeal of the seating. It provides a surface for guests to lean against, and its design is crucial to defining the overall comfort level of the banquette.
One of the most important considerations during the design phase is the ratio between the pitch of the inside back, the overall height, and the depth of the banquette. These dimensions must be carefully balanced to ensure the seating fits perfectly within its designated space and provides the desired level of comfort.
The inside back of the banquette is often the most visible part of the seating, especially in dining environments where it isn’t obscured by a table. This visibility offers an excellent opportunity for customization. At QA Group, we provide a variety of design options for the inside back, including tufting, channeling, and various stitching designs. These decorative features can enhance the visual appeal of the seating, making it a standout piece in your space. By carefully considering both the functional and aesthetic aspects of the inside back, we ensure that your banquette not only looks great but also provides a comfortable experience for your guests.
4. The Outside Back
The outside back of the banquette is an important aspect to consider, especially if the seating will be visible from multiple angles. When the outside back is concealed against a wall or other booth seating, it often doesn’t require the same level of finish as the rest of the banquette. In such cases, a simple covering with black cambric is usually sufficient, effectively closing off the back and saving on costs.
However, if the seating is free-standing or visible from different sides, the outside back should be designed with the same attention to detail as the rest of the piece. A common approach is to upholster the outside back with the same fabric used for the rest of the banquette, much like how sofa backs are finished. This creates a cohesive look and ensures that the seating is visually appealing from all angles.
For a more premium finish, especially in commercial settings, you might opt for wood paneling on the outside back. This not only gives the seating a solid, refined appearance but also adds durability, making it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas. Just like the inside back, the outside back can be customized with various materials and finishes to perfectly match your overall design vision, ensuring that your banquette is a standout piece from every perspective.
Custom Built to Fit Your Space
One of the most important aspects of custom-built seating is ensuring it fits perfectly into the space where it will be installed. A true “built-in” banquette requires precise measurements to conform to its critical fit. At QA Group, we offer expert field measuring services to take this responsibility off your plate, ensuring an exact match down to 1/8th of an inch.
If you prefer to take measurements yourself, consider not only the space the banquette will occupy but also how it will fit through doors, hallways, or elevators. Also, remember to account for drywall and flooring if they haven’t been completed yet. For larger or more complex designs, like an “L” or “U” shaped banquette, we can add shipping joints to break up the size and make it easier to transport and install.
Designing the Upholstery
With your booth or banquette perfectly sized for your space, the next step is to consider the upholstery design. This is where your seating can really shine, reflecting the style and personality of your business. At QA Group, we offer a wide range of upholstery options, including different types of tufting, channeling, stitching, and seams. Whether you’re looking for a classic, tufted design or something more modern and sleek, we have the expertise to bring your vision to life.
Tufting, for example, is a timeless design element that adds depth and texture to your seating. However, if you prefer a simpler look, a tightly upholstered seat or back might be the way to go. Vertical or horizontal channeling is another popular option that adds a sophisticated touch to any space. The choices are nearly endless, and our team is here to help you explore all the possibilities.
Ready to Get Started?
Designing custom booth and banquette seating might seem daunting, but with QA Group by your side, the process can be smooth and enjoyable. Our team of experts is here to guide you through every step, from initial design consultation to final installation. We pride ourselves on delivering high-quality, durable seating that meets your exact specifications.
If you’re feeling inspired and ready to start your project, head over to our Contact page or Request a Quote page. We’re here to answer any questions you may have and provide you with a no-cost quote. And if you need more inspiration, check out our Portfolio and Pinterest pages to see our latest installs and design ideas.
At QA Group, we’re committed to making your custom built-in seating project a success. Let’s create something amazing together!