That's a fantastic question! Many people assume that ordering park benches means committing to large quantities of a single, identical style. The good news is, you often have much more flexibility than you might think. The answer largely depends on your supplier and your project's scale.
For smaller projects, like a community garden, a cafe patio, or a corporate campus, many manufacturers and distributors are happy to accommodate mixed orders. This allows you to create a curated, eclectic look by combining different materials—like pairing classic wrought-iron ends with wooden slats, or modern powder-coated steel with recycled plastic. You can select a cohesive color palette but vary the bench designs to add visual interest to different zones within your space.
However, for very large municipal projects or standard bulk procurement, there might be a requirement to order a minimum quantity of one model to keep costs down. Bulk ordering of a single style is typically more cost-effective due to streamlined manufacturing and shipping.
The key is communication. When contacting suppliers, be clear about your vision. Ask directly: "Do you offer a mix-and-match program?" or "What is the minimum order quantity per style?" Reputable companies often have programs for designers and architects seeking variety. They may have catalog collections designed to work together aesthetically.
So, while bulk orders of one kind are common for uniformity and budget, getting a mix of styles is frequently possible. It opens up creative possibilities for designing dynamic, inviting public spaces that feel thoughtfully composed rather than generically installed. Start by defining your aesthetic and functional needs, then partner with a supplier who can turn that blended vision into reality.