Choosing the right commercial outdoor furniture materials in 2025 is more than just a design decision. It shapes durability, guest comfort, and long-term investment value. Hotels, resorts, and restaurants are focusing on furniture that balances style with performance, adapting to shifting guest expectations and new design trends. 

Understanding which materials are trending and which are fading helps property managers make informed decisions for outdoor spaces that impress visitors and withstand frequent use.

What’s In

Aluminum and Powder-Coated Metals

Lightweight yet strong, aluminum continues to lead the way in 2025. Powder-coated finishes not only add color variety but also protect against rust and fading.

These commercial outdoor furniture materials are versatile enough to fit modern, coastal, or traditional themes while requiring minimal upkeep. For high-traffic areas like resort poolside furniture, aluminum frames remain popular because they balance cost, durability, and style.

High-Density Resin and Recycled Plastics

Sustainability has become a major influence in furniture trends, and recycled plastics are gaining momentum. High-density resin and eco-friendly polymers offer resistance to fading, cracking, and moisture. This makes them ideal for poolside environments. 

They are also easy to clean, a benefit for resort restaurant exterior seating where furniture must withstand frequent guest use. These materials are an investment in both longevity and eco-conscious branding, aligning with guest expectations in 2025.

Synthetic Wicker with UV Protection

Synthetic wicker remains popular, but not all wicker is created equal. In 2025, UV-protected synthetic wicker is trending because it maintains the aesthetic appeal of traditional woven designs without the wear and tear associated with natural rattan. 

These commercial outdoor furniture materials are flexible enough for lounges, dining sets, and accent pieces. Resorts favor them for creating a welcoming, upscale atmosphere around pool decks and patios.

What’s Out

Natural Wood in High-Traffic Areas

While wood continues to be valued for its warmth and elegance, natural teak and hardwoods are declining in popularity for commercial use. Maintenance requirements and exposure to water, sun, and chemicals shorten their lifespan compared to alternatives.

Guests may appreciate the look, but operators are moving toward synthetic or composite materials that offer the same appearance with less upkeep. For resort poolside furniture, wood is no longer the preferred option.

Low-Grade Plastics

Low-quality plastic furniture is fading from the hospitality scene. While inexpensive, these pieces often discolor, crack, or warp under constant use and exposure.

Replacing them frequently increases costs. For this reason, they are less appealing for resorts and restaurants looking for long-term value. In 2025, businesses are opting for higher-grade resin materials that combine affordability with durability.

Unfinished Steel and Iron

Unfinished steel and iron are being phased out due to susceptibility to rust and the need for constant upkeep. Heavy frames also make them difficult for staff to move during events or seasonal changes. With lighter, corrosion-resistant metals available, most operators are shifting away from these outdated commercial outdoor furniture materials.

Making Smart Choices for 2025 and Beyond

Commercial outdoor furniture materials are evolving, with aluminum, recycled plastics, and synthetic wicker leading the trends in 2025, while wood, low-grade plastics, and untreated metals are losing ground. Resorts and restaurants that adopt the right materials create long-lasting, stylish spaces that appeal to modern guests while protecting long-term budgets.

Resort Contract Furnishings specializes in helping businesses make smart investments in outdoor furniture. Our resort poolside furniture and resort restaurant exterior seating options are made in the USA, supported by superior customer service, and offered at competitive pricing.

We work closely with clients to match materials to their goals, so outdoor spaces are attractive, durable, and guest-friendly. Contact us today.