One of the most popular options for casual restaurant chairs are Tolix chairs. You’ve probably sat in a Tolix chair before and perhaps you didn’t even know it. Today these chairs are seen everywhere – in restaurants, schools, hospitals, and homes. They can be dressed up to suit a high-end eatery or dressed down to suit the simplest roadside diner. Every respected commercial restaurant furniture supplier will stock Tolix chairs. Here is everything you need to know about Tolix chairs.
History of Tolix Chairs
The original Tolix chair was designed by Xavier Pauchard in 1927, and since then many different chair designs have been inspired by its shape and style. The French designer had a background in metal work thanks to his family. Xavier Pauchard’s grandfather and father were both zinc roofers. It was from his father that Xavier learned that to protect sheet metal chairs from rusting by dipping the metal in molten zinc or galvanizing the metal. He then opened his own factory producing metal products with the brand name Tolix. Pauchard called the Tolix chair, Model A, and it became popular among French bistros and cafes. However, the restaurant owners asked Pauchard to make one adjustment to the chair design and make them stackable. So Pauchard gave the Model A a slimmer frame making them stackable. The final version of the original Tolix chair as we know it today was launched in 1956.
Tolix Chairs Are Practical
Steel and stainless steel Tolix chairs can be used indoors and outdoors in all weather as they resist corrosion. The chairs that are intended for outdoor use have holes in the seats for the rain to drain off. The chairs are lightweight and easy to move. So you can rearrange your seating plan at any time and with ease. One of the practical features of Tolix chairs is that they can be stacked. With most Tolix models the chairs can be stacked up to 8 chairs high. And with some models, up to 25 chairs can be stacked together reaching a height of 2.3 meters. Metal Tolix chairs are welded to guarantee their durability. These chairs are extremely long-lasting. They can also be fitted with glides (rubber/nylon feet) to protect the floor and avoid the horrible scraping noise when chairs are pushed back from the table. The original Tolix chair was made from metal but today there are chairs modeled on the original but made in other materials like plastic.
Practical Features of Tolix Chairs
- Resist corrosion
- Durable
- Waterproof
- Lightweight
- Stackable
- Nylon glides
- Matching bar stools are available
- Built for commercial use
The Stylish Tolix Chair for Restaurants
Since the early days when Tolix chairs were only available in one size and color, a lot has changed. Today you can get this iconic industrial-style chair in a wide range of colors and in various materials. The most popular materials are steel and stainless steel. The classic Tolix metal frame can be combined with a wooden seat, or an upholstered seat. If you want to keep the same chair style throughout your restaurant there are Tolix bar stools for counter seating. Tolix chairs have a curved back that adds comfort and style. There are also variations of the Tolix backrest. You could opt for the classic backrest that has a wide bar down the middle and openings on either side. Or go for one of the innovative Tolix backrests that resemble wicker. There are even Tolix high bar stools with no backrest at all.
Advantages of Tolix Chairs in a Restaurant
- Stackable – Thanks to the slim frame and lightweight
- Easy to move – Thanks to their lightweight frame.
- Affordable – The average price of a Tolix chair is $114-$140.
- Durable – Metal is known to be the most durable of chair materials.
- Stylish – Perfect for retro, modern, and classic eateries.
- Customizable – You can add a wooden seat and choose from a range of colors.
- Scratch-resistant – The metal and the finish make these chairs scratch-resistant
- Comfortable – Thanks to the curved metal backrest and wide seat.
Find the Perfect Tolix Chair for your Restaurant
Talk to your commercial furniture supplier about how to customize Tolix chairs to suit your establishment. They will help you create a Tolix chair with a color and style that fits your restaurant concept as well as your budget.
Average Specifications of a Tolix Chair
- Weight: 10Lbs (12 Lbs if the chair has a wooden seat)
- Height: 33”
- Depth: 19”
- Width: 18”
- Material: metal or metal frame with a wooden seat
- Weight capacity: 500Lbs
- Warranty: 1 year
- Shipping: 7-14 days
