What makes the No.18 bentwood chair a classic?
The No.18 bentwood chair sits at the intersection of craft and early industrial thinking. Steam-bent timber forms created strength through curves rather than bulk. The result was a chair that feels light in the hand, reads clean in a room, and survives commercial turnover.
A silhouette built for cafés
- Lightweight: easy to move, reset and clean around
- Strong through form: curves carry load efficiently
- Repeatable: consistent profile across large quantities
- Timeless: works in heritage, contemporary and minimal interiors
Why designers still specify it
- Visual rhythm: repeated curves soften hard interiors
- Material warmth: timber balances steel, stone and concrete
- Scale: slim legs keep rooms open and less crowded
- Cost control: classic designs suit hospitality budgets
On schedules you may see this family labelled as No.18, A-18 or a supplier model reference. In our bentwood range, the No.18 profile is represented by the chair and matching family models below.
Video: bentwood chairs in hospitality
Benko, Hoffman and Prague chair: modern names for a classic idea
In Australia, you will often find No.18-inspired bentwood silhouettes listed under different names. Benko chair, Hoffman chair and Prague chair are common examples. The naming usually changes by supplier catalogue, importer, or how an architect has labelled a schedule.
If a schedule calls for “Hoffman” or “Prague”, the right approach is to confirm the silhouette details (back curve, seat type, and finish), then match the closest commercial model for the project.
Our Benko range keeps the bentwood language while offering options commonly needed in hospitality: dining chair, armchair, barstool and upholstered seating.
Design notes: using bentwood chairs in modern fit-outs
Finish and light
Bentwood finishes read differently under warm pendants, daylight and bar lighting. Use finish codes for consistency and request a sample for sign-off on larger quantities.
Turnover and comfort
Timber seats suit fast-turnover dining. Upholstered seats suit longer dwell times and venues where comfort helps lift the experience.
Glides and floors
Choose glides for tile, timber, vinyl or polished concrete. This reduces noise and protects floors in busy venues.
Mixing with modern materials
Bentwood works well against steel, terrazzo, concrete and stone. Repeating curved forms can soften hard architectural lines.
Project reference: Anglers Tavern
See Anglers Tavern for a hospitality reference where bentwood seating supports venue character while meeting the demands of a high-traffic environment.
FAQs: No.18 bentwood chair and modern naming
Is the No.18 bentwood chair the same as A-18 or A-1840?
Many suppliers use No.18, A-18 and an internal model reference to describe the same bentwood chair silhouette. Always confirm the profile and seat type.
Why do people call it a Prague chair or Hoffman chair?
Those names often come from catalogue naming or schedules. The silhouette is No.18-inspired, but small differences exist between suppliers.
What is best for hospitality: timber seat or upholstered seat?
Timber seats suit fast-turnover dining. Upholstered seats suit longer dwell times, premium areas and venues where comfort matters.
How do I get a fast quote?
Send quantities, finish code, delivery postcode, and timing. If you have a schedule, share it and we will match the closest option.
Need bentwood chairs for a fit-out?
Share your quantities, preferred finish and delivery postcode. We can confirm the best No.18 bentwood chair options and matching stools and armchairs for your venue.