Bar furniture is at the heart of making modern venues comfortable for their customers, but it can also tap into a sense of history amid what consumer analysts at Mintel have named the Secret Secret trend.
The trend itself is no secret; we're probably nearly all aware of pop-up restaurants and hidden bars, supper clubs and so on, where the venue might only be revealed at the last moment, or those attending might need to know a password in order to gain entry.
It's a global phenomenon, and Mintel cite examples from San Francisco, Chicago, Prague and London, and including everything from eating and drinking to hidden art exhibitions open only to those who can find them.
Pop-ups and secret events such as these give a sense of exclusivity, even in venues where there isn't really any 'natural' exclusivity or members-only rule, and in turn they can act as an enticing marketing gimmick.
Mintel's consumer trends consultant Stacy Glasgow describes one recent experience: "We felt a thrill as we were ushered through the dark, Prohibition-era-themed cocktail lounge to a booth in the back corner. Once inside, cell phones and boisterous behaviour were forbidden.
"Anyone can request a reservation via the speakeasy's website, but still our visit - with its password, mysterious retro ambience and rules - felt like a clandestine operation, and I delighted in the exclusivity of it all."
There is a further possible advantage of course - and that is the genuine element of exclusivity afforded by this kind of 'speakeasy' setting, even though the Prohibition era is long over.
Comfy bar furniture can help to provide the setting for this type of atmosphere, with customers specifically warned against spending their evening playing videos, football highlights and music through their smartphones.
It's an opportunity to drum up extra business while tightening your rules on atmosphere and ambience, rather than feeling obliged to relax them in order to attract more customers.
That's a rare chance indeed, but thanks to the Secret Secret trend it may be well worth exploring, even if only as a weekly or monthly special event, rather than as a complete transformation of your business.