We say it often in our articles, but club furniture is a very broad category indeed, so the list of things to look for is likely to depend on what you are trying to achieve.
That doesn't mean there aren't some general considerations to take into account though, so here's our club furniture check list:
1. What type of club are you?
It's an obvious question, but don't assume all club furniture will suit your facility perfectly well - there are clubs that need very practical furniture, and others that need all the comfort and luxury they can get.
2. Who are your clientele?
Do you have members, or can people simply walk in and start using your facilities? Paying members might be more likely to respect good-quality furniture, while their subscription fees can mean you have more to spend in your budget.
3. Where are you based?
This can have a bearing on all sorts of things - from whether you should have some outdoor furniture, if you are based in a sunny, peaceful spot, to the type of customer you might attract, if you are on a popular hiking trail or other such location.
4. How is your venue used?
Do people play sports or undertake other activities on your premises, or is it purely a social setting? This can influence the amount of seating you need, and the table configurations you opt for.
5. When are you busiest?
Are you a daytime venue, or busier at night? Do people come specifically around mealtimes, or to drink, or to join in a certain activity?
6. Why are you updating your club furniture?
Finally, if you have made the decision to update your existing club furniture, or you are fitting out new premises, there is probably a good reason.
It's a slightly more abstract concept than the materials and design of your chosen furniture, but understanding why you are making this investment can guide you towards the right decision.
Look in particular for any failings in your existing furniture, and choose pieces that fill the gap, or simply buy club furniture in line with the number of people you normally need to accommodate, with some spare seating for especially busy times.