- Stay true to the concept and use locally sourced materials for an authentic atmosphere.
- Simple touches, such as lighting and uniform linens, can create a great atmosphere.
- Add art and decor to highlight the personality of your restaurant.
- Hygiene is essential: implement daily cleaning routines, no-touch drop trays, and regular deep cleanings.
Opening a restaurant is no child’s play. Planning a restaurant requires a lot of forethought and inspiration at every level. You might have nailed down the concept of your restaurant, menu, and vibe, but what about the interior design? The interior of your restaurant is what makes your guests feel comfortable, gets pictures of your restaurant going viral on social media, and creates the vibe you wish to portray. Designing and decorating a restaurant can be a challenging task, but if you follow these tips, it will help you create a space that will set the tone for your guests’ dining experience.
Stay true to the concept:
Whether it’s a fine dining restaurant or a fast-casual establishment, it’s important to maintain a consistent design aesthetic throughout. Your restaurant concept, the target audience, and the overall theme are all deciding factors in design choices.
For example, if you are opening a farm-to-table restaurant, you can use natural elements like wood, brick, and stone. If you’re opening a luxury restaurant, elegant and sophisticated decor would be ideal.
If possible, use locally sourced materials. Using local materials is a great way to create an authentic atmosphere that celebrates the culture and history of your restaurant’s location. It also helps to support local businesses, which is always a plus.
Consider simple touches:
The restaurant decor doesn’t have to be over the top or extravagant. Sometimes, simple touches are all you need to create a great atmosphere. Here are some small additions that can make a big difference in creating an inviting atmosphere for your guests:
Lighting is key:
Lighting plays a significant role in any space, and it’s no different with restaurants. Whether natural or artificial light, it can create warmth, depth, and a focal point. Natural light creates a comfortable atmosphere and enhances the overall appeal. However, if natural light isn’t an option, focus on ambient and accent lighting to set the mood.
Uniform linens:
Whether you choose custom prints or solids, make sure the linens are consistent throughout the restaurant. They will give your establishment a more professional and polished look. To be more cost-effective, especially considering that you’re only starting in the business area, look for high-quality table linen rentals that fit your budget.
Art & Decor:
Adding art and decor creates an inviting atmosphere and characterizes your restaurant’s vibe. Art can set the tone and bring life to blank walls. Incorporate quirky and unique decor elements, from vintage posters to handmade frames, to make a statement about the personality of your restaurant.
Cleanliness is crucial:
Cleanliness is the first thing customers will notice, so it plays a vital role in restaurant design. A clean restaurant sets the tone for hygiene standards and affects overall customer satisfaction. Make sure your restaurant has a clean and well-organized floor plan where workers can maneuver with ease. Here are some cleanliness routines you should implement:
Daily Cleanings
The importance of daily cleanings cannot be understated. A clean and hygienic environment creates trust, encourages customers to return, and helps maintain a good reputation.
Regularly scheduled cleanings of high-touch areas like door handles, tables, chairs, and restrooms will ensure that your restaurant is spotless at all times. Vacuuming and dusting should also be done every day.
No-touch Drop Trays
No-touch drop trays are an effective way to reduce physical contact between staff and customers. Place them at the entrance of the restaurant for guests to leave their bags, jackets, or phones as they enter. It also helps to maintain hygiene standards in your restaurant by minimizing physical contact.
Regular Deep Cleanings
In addition to daily cleanings, it’s important to schedule regular deep cleanings. A thorough cleaning of all surfaces and objects in the restaurant will help you maintain a high level of hygiene and improve overall customer satisfaction.
Designing your restaurant can feel overwhelming, but following these tips can help create an excellent dining experience for your guests. Staying true to your concept and theme, paying attention to lighting and seating, and incorporating art and decor can create a complete experience. Remember that cleanliness and hygiene are essential, so make sure your design plan includes provisions for your restaurant’s maintenance. The ambiance and design can make or break a restaurant’s reputation, and it’s essential to have a comfortable and inviting atmosphere for your guests.
