What is a Poseur Table?

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In the world of hospitality and commercial interiors, functionality and style often go hand in hand. One furniture item that continues to stand out for its versatility and contemporary appearance is the poseur table. Also referred to as a high table or bar table, the poseur table is a brilliant addition to pubs, restaurants, cafes, bistros and event venues alike.

Whether used as a stand-alone piece for drinks and conversation or paired with tall chairs or bar stools, a poseur table is both practical and stylish. Its height and design lend themselves to more informal, sociable settings, making it a favourite in fast-paced, customer-facing environments.

The Poseur Table

A poseur table is designed to be taller than a standard dining table, typically measuring around 104 centimetres in height. The tabletop diameter usually sits around 60 centimetres, which provides enough space for drinks and light bites without taking up too much room on the floor. This makes them ideal for venues looking to make the most of their available space.

You may see them referred to by other names, such as bar tables or high tables, but they all refer to the same core design – a tall, compact table used either for standing guests or paired with tall seating.

What is a Poseur Table? - BE Furniture Sales

Uses Across Venues

Poseur tables are a familiar sight in many commercial settings due to their flexible nature. Their height and footprint make them well-suited for:

  • Bars and pubs looking to create areas for casual drinks
  • Cafes and bistros that want to add a modern touch with high stools
  • Event venues and exhibition halls where guests often stand while socialising
  • Outdoor beer gardens and patios where space-saving furniture is essential

These tables allow for both standing and seated use, making them an excellent choice for adaptable environments.

Creating a Social Atmosphere

Poseur tables naturally encourage conversation and mingling. In pubs and bars, they provide a convenient spot for guests to place their drinks while standing. In cafes or casual dining spots, they offer a laid-back alternative to more formal table settings.

For event spaces, poseur tables are handy. They can be easily placed in reception areas or near bar service points, helping to create sociable zones without crowding the space. Their elevated height also improves visibility at busy gatherings, which can enhance the overall ambience.

Material and Finish

Poseur tables come in a wide variety of materials and finishes to suit both indoor and outdoor use. The choice of material can influence not only the look of your space but also the durability and ease of maintenance.

Aluminium
A popular option for outdoor settings. Aluminium is lightweight, rust-resistant and easy to clean. It is well-suited for beer gardens, terraces and pop-up events.

Steel
Provides a strong, industrial feel that works well in urban cafes or modern bars. Powder-coated steel options can resist daily wear and are easy to maintain.

Tolix
The tolix-style poseur table is ideal for venues that embrace vintage or industrial aesthetics. These tables are stackable, hardwearing and often used in casual dining spaces or bistros.

Wood
Offers a classic, warm appearance that suits both traditional and rustic environments. Wood can be treated for outdoor use and brings character to any indoor setting.

Some options blend materials, such as wooden tops with metal legs, allowing businesses to match existing decor or create a standout design feature.

Designed for Both Indoors and Outdoors

Commercial-grade poseur tables are often designed to perform well in both indoor and outdoor environments. Materials like aluminium and galvanised steel are particularly suited for outdoor use, as they resist weather damage and require minimal upkeep.

Some designs include foldable or stackable features, making them easy to store after service. This is especially useful for venues that host private events or regularly change their layout.

Seating Options

Poseur tables can be used alone for standing guests or paired with tall seating to create a more relaxed setup. When choosing stools or high chairs, it is vital to ensure the seat height complements the table height. Most poseur tables pair best with stools that are approximately 74 to 76 centimetres high.

High stools come in a range of styles, from metal tolix options to wooden and upholstered designs. The proper seating can enhance comfort while tying in with the broader design scheme of the space.

When designing a venue layout, it’s helpful to alternate between standard seating and poseur tables to offer variety and accommodate different group sizes and preferences.

Space and Style

Thanks to their compact footprint, poseur tables are a clever choice for smaller venues or for adding extra spots without overcrowding. They can be used to fill awkward corners, line up along walls, or create pop-up serving areas for events.

Their tall, slim design adds a modern touch to any setting, particularly when paired with contemporary seating. For venues looking to refresh their look without a complete refurbishment, poseur tables offer a cost-effective solution.

BE Furniture Sales

At BE Furniture Sales, we supply a wide selection of poseur tables suitable for commercial use across the UK. Our high tables are chosen for their build quality, practicality and design, whether you’re furnishing a pub, kitting out a new café, or planning an outdoor event.

Trusted by leading names in hospitality, from fast food chains to independent venues, we pride ourselves on providing furniture that looks good, performs well and stands the test of time.

Explore the full range of high tables and poseur tables available from BE Furniture Sales to find the perfect fit for your venue.

 

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