Bentwood Chairs

Bentwood Chairs

Bentwood chairs were invented over a hundred years ago in Austria, and remain one of the most popular choices for  cafe chairs today. Lightweight, durable, and timeless, a bentwood chair calls to mind Parisian cafes and outdoor dining – well worth considering for any hospitality space.

The origins of bentwood chairs:

Michael Thonet, an Austrian cabinetmaker, pioneered the bentwood chair in Vienna in the 1800s. His bentwood vintage chairs are some of the most successful examples of early, mass-produced furniture. They were exhibited in London in 1851, and were sold in vast quantities throughout Europe and the United States. Because the chairs were light, stylish, and comparably inexpensive, this style became popular for clubs, hotels, shops and restaurants.  Over time, the bentwood chair has become synonymous with  cafe furniture.

Thonet’s technique was patented in 1842, and you can still tell an authentic bentwood chair by the THONET carved into the wood.

How are bentwood chairs made?

Vintage bentwood chairs were made by steaming wooden rods and bending them into a curved shape, hence the name.

Most commonly, beechwood is used as this variety is less likely to split. The steamed wood has a highly increased flexibility that allows it to be bent into the desired shape. Once secured in place, the wood is allowed to dry. The same method is used in rocking chairs, creating a smooth curve without carving the wood.

Choosing the perfect bentwood chair for your space:

Old bentwood chairs are synonymous with chic European cafes, and are an excellent choice for any commercial dining space. When it comes to cafes and the classic bistro, the bentwood dining chair is living up to its timeless reputation.

Beyond bentwood chairs for sale, B Seated is your one-stop shop for  commercial furniture – we have everything you need to outfit a venue that looks great, and is a joy to visit.

Wood bentwood chairs

Beechwood is the most common choice for a wooden bentwood chair, because of its malleable nature. Classic is the name of the game here, which is why wood bentwood chairs are ideal for French bistros, cafe terraces, and artisanal coffee shops.

Antique bentwood chairs

Time-honoured styles like our  Fuoco Arancia Bentwood Chair A-1889 remain popular. Excellent for restaurants and cafes that exude old-world charm, as well as for more eclectic modern spaces, to create a point of contrast.

Black bentwood chairs

Black bentwood chairs are a clever combination of classic and modern industrial. Pieces like our  BENTWOOD A-788 Fan are great for urban cafes and gastropubs.

White bentwood chairs

This type of bentwood is great for modern, Scandinavian-style spaces, minimalist cafes and contemporary event spaces.

Bentwood cane chairs

Perfect for light, coastal interiors, cane bentwood chairs like our  Benko Chair A-8120 are right at home in beach cafes, seaside restaurants and heritage hotels.

Bentwood bar chairs

The  Bentwood Bar Stool Model BST-18 is right at home in a vintage cocktail bar, and at a high-end lobby bar.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are bentwood chairs?
Bentwood chairs are crafted using a traditional woodworking technique where wood is steamed, bent into shape, and then dried to maintain its curved form. This method allows for elegant, lightweight, and durable seating solutions, ideal for hospitality and commercial spaces.
What materials are used in bentwood chairs?
Bentwood chairs are typically made from high-quality hardwoods such as beech, ash, and oak. These materials are chosen for their strength, flexibility, and ability to maintain their shape over time.
Are bentwood chairs suitable for commercial use?
Yes, bentwood chairs are designed for high-traffic environments such as restaurants, cafes, hotels, and bars. Their durable construction and timeless aesthetic make them a staple in the hospitality industry.
Can I customize my bentwood chairs?
Absolutely. Bentwood chairs are available in a variety of finishes, stains, and upholstery options to complement different interior styles. Customization options include seat materials, frame colors, and additional detailing.
What makes bentwood chairs different from other wooden chairs?
The bentwood technique allows for seamless curves and a lightweight yet sturdy frame, setting them apart from traditional wooden chairs. This unique construction enhances both comfort and visual appeal.
How do I care for and maintain bentwood chairs?
To maintain their longevity, clean bentwood chairs with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Avoid excessive moisture and direct sunlight to prevent warping or fading. Upholstered options may require additional care based on the fabric or leather used.
Are bentwood chairs stackable?
Many bentwood chair models are designed with stackability in mind, making them convenient for storage and space efficiency, especially in hospitality venues.
Do bentwood chairs come with armrests?
Bentwood chairs are available in both armchair and side chair variations, allowing flexibility in design and functionality depending on your seating needs.
What interior styles do bentwood chairs complement?
Bentwood chairs are versatile and suit a range of interior styles, including modern, vintage, Scandinavian, and classic European-inspired spaces. Their refined curves and clean lines blend effortlessly with various aesthetics.
Are bentwood chairs eco-friendly?
Yes, bentwood chairs are made using sustainable wood sources and a minimal-waste manufacturing process. The technique itself reduces excess material use, making them a responsible choice for environmentally conscious designs