In modern times, the term refectory furniture tends to be used to describe traditional wooden pub or restaurant furniture. Often in hardwood and either simple or ornate in design, these pieces are a sturdy, solid addition to any hospitality establishment.
The roots of refectory furniture
A refectory is a dining room, commonly found in monasteries, boarding schools and other academic establishments. Although it has its strongest ties to the medieval times, in the modern day it is often used to refer to a café open to the public that is attached to a cathedral or abbey. Some universities in the UK will refer to their dining halls as the refectory. So, what does this mean when it comes to furniture? Essentially refectory furniture is that which is used in these spaces, with long tables and classic solid wood pieces featuring most frequently.
Refectory tables
A refectory table is an elongated table which is based on a trestle style. This means they often feature multiple trestle supports with the tabletop placed over them. Originally refectory tables were used for dining in monasteries, before becoming popular as banqueting tables in castles and noble residences in the late middle ages.
Refectory tables can vary from nothing more than planks of wood places over trestles to ornate pieces made in solid oak or walnut. Throughout history the design of these pieces has varied depending on the styles of the time, however they have always remained a solid and durable piece due to the amount of use and wear they can receive.
The traditional pub table
The most common place you will see a traditional refectory table is in a pub or restaurant. The inset positioning of the table ends create little obstruction to diners, making them a comfortable and space efficient option. The refectory build style also means that are also stable and sturdy – perfect for seating larger groups.
Trent Furniture’s refectory tables
Trent Furniture offers a very traditional solid wood refectory style table in a range of finishes; walnut, dark oak and light oak. Coming in both rectangular and square options, it can seat different sizes of party and be used in different combinations to fit your space. We also offer traditional solid wood seating that matches our refectory tables beautifully, create a consistent style throughout your pub or restaurant. You can view our range of refectory furniture here or get in touch if you have any questions about our products and furnishing your space.