If you need to source fixed
seating for an establishment with an auditorium, there is a wide range of
styles and designs on the market and it can be difficult to know where to
start. As fixed seating is a long-term investment, it’s important to ensure you
find a reputable supplier who will provide you with quality products that will
stand the test of time.
By their nature, auditoria are
venues with high footfall where seating is in daily use and subject to rigorous
wear and tear. It therefore needs to be robust and hard-wearing and designed to
withstand frequent usage.
Don’t take pricing at face
value
The price of fixed seating can
vary greatly but generally you can ensure you get the best price if you go
direct to a manufacturer rather than through a re-seller. If your budget is
limited you may be tempted to look at an off-the-shelf option as this can be
significantly cheaper but you do need to consider the wider cost implications
of this which may not initially be apparent.
Whilst buying off the shelf
may appear cost-effective, there is often no pre-sales advice and no after
sales service. Whereas by buying made to order from a manufacturer, you will be
able to get help with choosing the right type of fixed seating, planning the
layout and having the seats fitted. There will often be a longer warranty
period, specialist fitters who can ensure your seats are installed efficiently
and correctly and long term after sales service.
Fixed seating can be tailored
to fit your venue
Most manufacturers will be
able to tailor their seats to fit your auditorium. If you don’t already have a
seating plan drawn up then they will be able to do this for you, taking into
account the capacity you would like to have within your venue and all the
relevant fire and safety regulations.
Seat widths can usually be
adjusted in line with the length of rows to maximise the available space whilst
providing as generous a seat as possible. There will often be a range of
options when it comes to various elements of the seats, such as back height,
thickness of cushioning and depth of seat. If your seats are made to order then
you will be able to specify all of these things as well as choose whatever
fabric or vinyl upholstery you would like.
When you buy off the shelf,
your choices are often limited and seats come in one size fits all in a limited
range of fabrics and colours.
Installation service
The majority of seating
manufacturers will have specialist fitters who can fit fixed seating for you
and often it’s actually included in the price. It’s preferable to use the
manufacturer’s own fitters as they will be experts in fitting fixed seating in
all types of venues and will be able to deal with any problems that arise on
site.
Of course, it’s not essential
to use the manufacturer’s fitters and you could commission your own people to
do the job or do it yourself if you are confident with this type of work.
