What is hotel furniture?

Hotel furniture includes all the pieces you need to make your hotel functional and appealing to guests. From the beds in your rooms to the chairs on your patio, each item plays a role in how your property looks and feels. It’s an investment that needs to balance style, durability, and comfort.

Furnishing your hotel isn’t just about finding pretty pieces—it’s about creating a space that guests love and feel comfortable in. The right furniture can make your hotel feel welcoming, look stylish, and even help you get more bookings. 

In this guide we’ll dive into everything you need to know about choosing hotel furniture that works for your space, budget, and guests.

Showcase your hotel’s style and boost bookings with Little Hotelier

Make the most of your hard work and careful furniture choices with Little Hotelier’s all-in-one platform for booking management, guest communication, and online visibility.

Learn more

Why is it important to choose the right hotel furniture?

Getting your furniture right means happier guests, better reviews, and even a boost in return visits. Furniture that’s both attractive and functional helps create a vibe that guests will remember. And, by choosing pieces that last, you save on future costs by reducing replacements and repairs.

What is classified as hotel furniture?

Hotel furniture covers everything from bedroom basics like beds and wardrobes to lounge sofas and outdoor patio furniture. Each piece should be picked with durability, comfort, and design in mind to create a cohesive look that speaks to your hotel’s style.

Types of hotel furniture with examples

What’s right for one hotel may not be right for yours. Let’s look at different types of hotel furniture, organised by location, type, and hotel style.

Furniture location

Hotel bedroom furniture

Basics like beds, nightstands, wardrobes, and desks are essentials for a comfortable room. Look for pieces that are durable and easy to clean, with designs that fit the overall vibe of the room.

Hotel lounge furniture

In lounge areas, comfort is key. Sofas, armchairs, coffee tables, and occasional chairs should make guests feel relaxed while adding style to the space.

Hotel patio furniture

Outdoor furniture should be weather-resistant and comfortable. Think lounge chairs, dining sets, and umbrellas that can handle sun and rain but still look good.

Hotel pool furniture

Poolside areas benefit from loungers, side tables, and shade umbrellas. Opt for materials that resist sun and water damage, like aluminium or treated wood.

Furniture type

Commercial hotel furniture

Built for heavy use, commercial furniture is ideal for high-traffic areas like lobbies and dining spaces. It’s made to withstand constant use without showing too much wear and tear.

Discount hotel furniture

If you’re on a tight budget, discount options can work well if chosen carefully. Look for seasonal sales, quality second-hand pieces, or discounted models that still deliver the look and durability you need.

Custom hotel furniture

Custom furniture lets you tailor pieces to match your hotel’s brand and style. While it can cost more upfront, custom designs can help your property stand out and create a unique guest experience.

Hotel type

Modern hotel furniture

Minimalist designs, clean lines, and neutral colours define modern hotel furniture. It gives a sleek, polished look that appeals to guests looking for a contemporary feel.

Boutique hotel furniture

Boutique hotels often go for eclectic or artistic pieces that give rooms personality. Vintage finds, unique handcrafted items, and one-of-a-kind pieces add charm and character to the space.

hotel furniture

How to choose the best hotel furniture

Picking the right furniture for your hotel isn’t just about style—it’s about balancing cost, durability, and practicality. Here are some tips to help you make the best choices.

Consider your hotel furniture budget without compromising on quality

It’s tempting to go for the cheapest options, but quality furniture pays off in the long run. Look for sales, quality second-hand finds, or even outlet deals to keep within budget. Remember, well-made furniture will last longer and require fewer replacements, saving you money over time.

Assess whether the furniture aligns with your overall hotel design and experience

Consistency in design helps make your hotel feel put-together and welcoming. Choose pieces that match your theme, whether it’s a sleek modern look or a warm, rustic vibe. A cohesive design can make all the difference in how guests experience and remember your property.

Think about how to clean and maintain the hotel furniture to extend its lifespan

Furniture in a hotel needs to withstand heavy use, so look for materials that are easy to clean and durable. Regular maintenance, like upholstery cleaning and polishing, will help your pieces look fresh and inviting for longer, reducing replacement costs in the long run.

Validate the credibility of hotel furniture suppliers and manufacturers

Whether you’re buying onsite or online, make sure your suppliers are reputable. Check reviews, ask for samples if possible, and understand return policies to ensure you’re getting quality furniture that fits your needs. Trusted suppliers often offer warranties, giving you peace of mind about your investment.

How do hotels purchase furniture?

When it’s time to purchase furniture for your hotel, you have two main options: buying onsite or ordering online. Each method has its benefits, so here’s how to approach each one to ensure you’re getting quality pieces that fit your hotel’s needs.

Onsite

Shopping in person gives you the chance to see and feel the furniture for yourself, which is helpful for assessing quality, comfort, and durability. Here are some key questions to ask suppliers or manufacturers when buying furniture onsite:

  • What materials are used, and are they durable enough for hotel use? It’s essential to know that the furniture can handle heavy use and frequent cleaning.
  • What’s the warranty or return policy? Warranties vary, and for high-traffic environments like hotels, it’s worth asking about repair or replacement coverage.
  • Is this furniture available in other finishes or colours? Sometimes a supplier will have multiple options that better match your hotel’s design.
  • Do you offer discounts for bulk orders? Many suppliers provide discounts when buying multiple items, which is particularly useful for small hotels looking to furnish several rooms or common areas.
  • Can I get samples or swatches of fabrics? Fabric swatches help you evaluate colour, texture, and quality, especially if the piece will be used heavily.
  • How long is the delivery time? Knowing delivery times is essential for planning, especially if you’re setting up a new property or refurbishing existing spaces.

Online

Buying furniture online provides more variety and, often, better prices, but it comes with a different set of considerations, especially for small hotels. Here’s what to keep in mind:

  • Read customer reviews: Reviews can reveal a lot about the quality and durability of furniture items. Look for feedback from other hotels or businesses with high-traffic spaces.
  • Understand the return policy: Not all online suppliers offer free returns, and shipping large furniture pieces back can be costly. Check return terms carefully to avoid unexpected fees.
  • Check for delivery and assembly options: Some suppliers offer in-room delivery and assembly services, which can save you time and effort. Be aware of additional charges for these services.
  • Look for quality certifications or materials information: Many online retailers will list certifications like “commercial-grade” or details on materials. These markers are helpful for ensuring you’re purchasing items durable enough for hotel use.
  • Contact customer service: Don’t hesitate to reach out with questions about durability, fabric options, or special requests. Quality online retailers should provide clear, detailed answers.
  • Consider shipping costs and times: Factor shipping fees into your budget, especially for larger items, and double-check estimated delivery times to make sure they fit your schedule.

By Dean Elphick

Dean is the Senior Content Marketing Specialist of Little Hotelier, the all-in-one software solution purpose-built to make the lives of small accommodation providers easier. Dean has made writing and creating content his passion for the entirety of his professional life, which includes more than six years at Little Hotelier. Through content, Dean aims to provide education, inspiration, assistance, and, ultimately, value for small accommodation businesses looking to improve the way they run their operations (and live their life).