Airport lounges are designed to provide comfort and convenience for travellers who are waiting for their flights. One of the most important aspects of airport lounge design is the choice of seating. Bench and beam seating are two common types of seating that can be found in airport lounges, but what are the advantages and disadvantages of each?
Bench seating is a is a traditional seating arrangement that consists of long, continuous seats that can accommodate multiple people. Bench seating can be made of various materials, such as wood, metal, leather or fabric. Some bench seating options may have backrests or armrests, while others may not. Bench seating can be arranged in rows, curves or circles to suit different floor plans and layouts.
Beam seating is a more modern seating option that consists of individual seats that are attached to a metal beam or frame. Beam seating can also be made of various materials, such as plastic, metal, leather or fabric. Beam seating usually has backrests and armrests, and may also have features such as power outlets, USB ports, tablet arms or cup holders. Beam seating can be configured in different lengths and angles to fit different spaces and needs.
Pros of bench seating
- Bench seating can create a sense of openness and spaciousness in airport lounges, as they do not have partitions or barriers between seats.
- Bench seating can offer more flexibility and adaptability for travellers, as they can choose where to sit and how much space to occupy on the bench.
- Bench seating can foster social interaction and communication among travellers, as they can easily talk to each other or share their experiences on the bench.
- Bench seating can be more cost-effective and easy to maintain than beam seating, as they require less material and components.
- Bench seating is versatile and can accommodate a large number of travelers
- Bench seating is easy to clean and maintain
- Bench seating is Less expensive
Cons of bench seating
- Bench seating can compromise privacy and personal space for travellers, as they may have to share the seat with strangers or sit close to each other.
- Bench seating can reduce comfort and ergonomics for travellers, as they may not have adequate support for their backs or arms, or access to power or entertainment options.
- Bench seating can limit seat utilisation and capacity in airport lounges, as some travellers may occupy more space than necessary on the bench or leave gaps between seats.
/ More than the average beam. In-arm power and recliners are just some of the ways to enhance the waiting experience for travellers /
Pros of beam seating
- Beam seating can provide more privacy and personal space for travellers, as they have their own individual seats that are separated by armrests or partitions.
- Beam seating can enhance comfort and ergonomics for travellers, as they have proper support for their backs and arms, and access to power or entertainment options on their seats.
- Beam seating can maximise seat utilisation and capacity in airport lounges, as each seat has a fixed size and position on the beam.
- Beam seating is perfect for travelers who prefer to sit in groups
- Beam seating is also easy to maintain
Cons of beam seating
- Beam seating can create a sense of confinement in airport lounges, as they have partitions or barriers between seats that may block the view or airflow.
- Beam seating can offer less flexibility and adaptability for travellers, as they have to conform to the size and shape of the seat on the beam.
- Beam seating can hinder social interaction and communication among travellers, as they have to face forward or sideways on their seats, or deal with noise or distractions from other seats.
- Beam seating can be more expensive and difficult to maintain than bench seating, as they require more material and components.
In conclusion, choosing the right airport furniture seating option for your airport lounge depends on your specific needs and preferences. Bench seating is versatile and cost-effective, while beam seating is compact and modern. Choosing the right seating option for your airport lounge depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider the size of your lounge, the number of travellers, and the overall design when choosing between bench and beam seating. Ultimately, the goal is to create a comfortable and welcoming space that meets the needs of all travellers. Contact us to find our more about our entire range.