We’re used to prioritising ergonomics when it comes to office furniture, where providing comfort for users sitting for extended periods is essential.
In hospitality interiors, aesthetics often seem to precede over ergonomics, but the reality is more nuanced. Ergonomics isn’t just about describing what feels comfortable, it’s a complex set of design principles that include comfort, efficiency, user and designer wellbeing, adaptability, and the ability to translate knowledge into execution.
Ergonomic furniture goes beyond physical comfort, it’s about shaping experiences. Think soft, plush seating that invites guests to linger in a hotel lobby, or hard, upright chairs that encourage quick turnover in a fast-paced restaurant.
Either way, at Parla, we strive to determine the right balance between style, durability, and comfort by crafting pieces that prioritise ergonomics while appealing to our clients in the best possible way.
Some of our clients operate on a large scale, designing expansive spaces and managing high-volume projects. In these cases, attention to ergonomic detail can sometimes be overlooked in favour of aesthetics. For some, aesthetics may precede over functionality, but we know that true design success lies in balancing both. This is where Parla’s expertise becomes essential: seamlessly integrating ergonomics into aesthetically driven designs without compromise.
Berrak İlkcan Şener, our Design Manager, explains what ergonomics mean for Parla: “There are definitely technical standards and standard measurements for ergonomics in furniture design, but they are fully customizable depending on the client’s needs and the space in which the furniture will be placed. The right measurements are also generated from experience. As we complete more and more bespoke projects, our experience in maximizing and perfecting the perfect recipe of comfort increases.”
The role of ergonomics might also differ depending on the space and the client’s vision. For instance, some clients design waiting areas like lobbies to maximise comfort and encourage longer stays, while others prefer seating that subtly encourages shorter use times. Each approach reflects a different intention and understanding these nuances is key to delivering the right ergonomic solution.
Next time, ask yourself this question in a space you enter: is this cafe, restaurant or hotel lobby designed for comfort or for quick exits? The answer might be more revealing than you think!
