Theater Seating

Theater Seating
By: Beth Hursch

Advances in the form and function of stadium seating have led to changes in the way church seating is made. Today, many churches are outfitted with upholstered chairs that feature folding seats similar to what is seen in theaters.

Church theater seating borrows elements from stadium and auditorium seating, with a more furniture-like feel. It is ideal for a church that is in an auditorium format, with terraced seating or a large, open space. Manufacturers offer church seating that combines the stadium chair's economy of space with the comfort and elegance of a traditional pew.

Church theater seating lends even a bare, open space elegance and comfort. It creates an atmosphere conducive to worship. With ergonomic design and the option of portability, today's church seating allows church-goers to be comfortable and gives the church administrators flexibility in the placement of the seats.

Theater seating chairs are constructed with foam padding wrapped around an ergonomically designed frame. The theater seat is distinct from other stadium seating in its emphasis on luxurious comfort. Its basic design is, however, similar. The folding seat that allows for efficient use of space is shared with the stadium seating found in arenas and sports complexes.

A typical theater seat will always be upholstered. The choice of fabric often reflects the intended use. Some venues will often use durable twill fabrics for stain-resistance, while others place the emphasis on luxury and choose velvets. A plush fabric will give the seating an upscale look.

Theater seats are designed to be compact yet comfortable. Advanced steel and plastic framing materials, and foam that contours to your body, combine with ergonomic design to provide support for the body.

If you’re looking to renovate rather than starting from scratch, suppliers can refurbish auditorium seating for less than the cost of new seating. When making a large purchase of stadium and auditorium seating or renovating an existing space, this can add up to substantial savings. Seat renovation is an option that will make used seating look new and give you the opportunity to add features that were previously missing.

Restoring auditorium seats is a process that can be done either on-site or at a restoration facility. The seats are taken apart, and each component repaired or replaced as needed. Depending upon the condition of the seats, this process may take several hours or several days. New foam and upholstery is added if necessary, and will make used, worn-out seating look like new.

Restoring auditorium seats gives new life to old seating. Worn mechanisms can be replaced to ensure that the folding seats work smoothly and soundlessly. A variety of fabric choices give you the look you want for your space.

The main reasons to refurbish auditorium seating are cost versus new seats, and the opportunity it gives you to get the look and features you want without having to buy new seats. Suppliers specialize in seat restoration and can assist in the process, including removal, layout and installation of the chairs. Restored seats help you keep the old style of your chairs while giving them a fresh new look.

When researching which church seating will suit your needs, consider a consultation with large-venue seating professionals. They can help determine the best configuration for your seating as well as help you choose the style and features that will work best. There are also options in used and refurbished seating for those on a limited budget.