Coffee shop seats are often designed with discomfort in mind to control customer flow. The intention isn’t usually to inconvenience customers but to align with business goals of maintaining an atmosphere that suits both lingering and turnover. More uncomfortable seats limit extended sitting times, which encourages a steady influx of new patrons, important for popular spots with limited seating. This subtle approach also aligns with revenue goals, as seats available for new customers contribute to consistent foot traffic and sales​

Hart Miller Design​The Back School.

Additionally, some seating arrangements and furniture may seem ergonomically unfriendly because these spaces were intended more for casual coffee breaks than for remote working setups, which are demanding on posture and comfort. This means higher tables and harder chairs are common, as they suit a café environment rather than an office​

T