A simple guide to anchoring: Choosing the right solution for your project
We often get asked about different anchoring methods and what solutions are most suitable. The slightly boring answer is that there are no simple solutions. Choosing the right type of anchoring depends entirely on what the area will be used for, the type of base on which the furniture will stand and, last but not least, the nature of the ground underneath. We have therefore put together a simple guide below to help you make the best choices for your project.
“Which option is best for my project?”
Vestre offers five different standardised anchoring solutions: free-standing, embedding in the ground, surface mounting, wall mounting and wall top mounting. Each of these options have both advantages and limitations which you should consider.
Free-standing—for projects which require a lot of flexibility
Suitable for: Most types of ground surface, but not recommended for grass for maintenance reasons.
Depth requirements: No special requirements, but it’s best for the ground to be as even, stable and firm as possible. Most of our free-standing models are designed so that they can be bolted in place using surface mounting. There are then fewer requirements regarding the type of surface than when using a base. Some of our models also come with adjustable legs.
For projects which require high levels of flexibility or don’t have the option of fixed installation, or where you want to be able to move the furniture around, free-standing models are a good choice. It’s nevertheless worth remembering that projects with free-standing furniture often require more follow-up and maintenance than projects where the furniture is fixed in place. These projects should be inspected frequently, and the furniture should be repositioned regularly to avoid untidy layouts which ruin the whole project.
A project where precisely this type of flexibility was important was the project Snøhetta carried out at Times Square. The aim was to have a lot of seats for visitors, but also to be able to rearrange and tidy away the furniture for larger events. APRIL GO chairs and tables were chosen, along with STOOP step benches and semi-circular STRIPES benches. APRIL GO gives visitors the option to move the furniture around and thereby take more ownership over the space. The chairs are light enough to move around, heavy enough so people don’t take them away with them, and sturdy enough to withstand gusts of wind of up to 16-17m/s before they budge.
Embedding in the ground—a permanent, aesthetically pleasing and lasting solution
Suitable for: The vast majority of ground surfaces.
Surface requirements: The embedded section of the legs extends 350mm into the ground, so you must ensure that they won't interfere with pipes, cables, membranes or other objects in the ground. The embedded area itself should measure around 500x400mm and it’s important that the legs are embedded in stable and well-compacted material. For embedding in grassed areas, it is recommended that an entire platform be constructed. This will provide a solid foundation, avoid deterioration of the grass where your legs go and ensure easy maintenance for those who cut the grass
If you want fixed permanent furniture, embedding is the best choice. It requires a bit of groundwork and depth where the furniture is to be placed, but it also ensures that the furniture stays in the best condition over time. Aesthetically, there are also many people who prefer embedding but need fewer furniture legs and get a cleaner transition between surface and legs than when using a base, for example. Several of our embedded models can also be supplied with prefabricated concrete foundations, but these also require stable and well-compacted material in order to stay upright over time.
Surface mounting – a permanent, but more flexible solution
Suitable for: Solid surfaces such as concrete, granite, solid wood and paving stones. Not asphalt!
Surface requirements: 100-200mm attachment depending on the type of bracket material and surface.
Surface mounting is a good option where embedding is not possible. This is particularly true in urban environments, where there are often technical installations or membranes or it’s too shallow to embed the legs into the ground. With regard to care and management, the use of surface-mounted furniture or a base is also preferable if the furniture is vulnerable to collisions or snow clearance. It’s much easier to replace parts or an entire item of this type of furniture than when it’s embedded in the ground. It’s also more flexible and requires less planning. Upon request, base solutions can also be extended so that the base can be placed under the surface where it is desired or needed.
Wall mounting—a practical solution for pavement cafés
Suitable for: Solid walls or high wall tops.
Depth requirements: 100-200mm attachment depending on the type of bracket material and surface.
We offer several products which can be mounted directly onto walls—both seating and litter bins. This is an anchoring method which is often used for outdoor seating along pavements or on top of high walls. But for wall mounting to be a good choice, you need to be sure whether or not there are any technical installations in the wall and how deep you can anchor the furniture, as this type of anchoring places a great strain on the wall. However, if the wall is suitable, it can offer several advantages. Wall-mounted solutions free up the floor area, save space and make maintenance such as cleaning easier.
Wall tops—wooden surfaces to make granite and concrete more inviting
Suitable for: Granite and wall tops.
Requirements regarding the base: Mounted on top of a wall or in a recessed area. Simple and hidden attachment between or under the wooden surface.
We have a number of standard models of wall top benches of various lengths, heights, widths and arches. The range includes products with panels extending both lengthways and widthways, and without any visible screws in the wood. Most of the models can also be supplied with back and arm rests for universal design. By using tried and tested solutions, you are ensured ergonomic and high-quality design, guarantees and easy access to spare parts. We also offer customisation of standard models upon request.
Maintenance can be a challenge for wall top seating surfaces, especially for solutions where the panels run lengthways. However, we also have products that are designed to have plenty of space underneath, such as our PORTO bench. With more space between the bench and the top of the wall, you can easily access and remove dirt between and under the bench top, while ensuring that the wood won’t sit in water after heavy rain. This was also a factor for VROOM, where you can easily brush or wash between the horizontal panels.
To ensure the best possible durability, Vestre’s products are always impregnated on all sides—even in the case of products with specially customised lengths.
See preview of products with different anchoring options
At vestre.com you can find high resolution images, mounting instructions, illustrations, 3D/BIM models and a 3D view of all product models. The 3D view enables you to see how products with different anchoring options and colours will look in your project.
We have standard, well-proven anchoring options which meet most needs, but we also offer special customisation. This could be, for example, a bigger base, or shorter or longer legs which extend into the ground. Contact us, and we’ll find the best solution for your project together!
