If you want to build a successful restaurant, it’s important to focus on the design of your physical space. This will help you create a great dining experience for your customers. Whether you’re just starting out or you already have a restaurant, there are some modern techniques can use to improve your space. These strategies can help you make your restaurant more flexible, no matter where you are in the process.
Keep reading to learn more about how to transform your dining space from the ground up.
Spice Up the Floor Plan
When designing your restaurant’s floor plan, a general rule of thumb is to dedicate 60% of the space to dining and 40% to the kitchen. But don’t feel like you have to stick to that exact ratio. You can customize your floor plan based on your needs and the space you have. For example, if your kitchen takes up 30% of the space, go with that. It will leave you more room for the dining area. If you’re feeling creative, you can use the extra space for decorations or a stage for performances. Just make sure you follow building codes, regulations, and accessibility rules set by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) before you start decorating.
There are many ways to spice up your restaurant’s floor plan and make it more unique and engaging for customers.
Add an open kitchen. An open kitchen allows customers to see their food being prepared and adds an element of theater to the dining experience.
Incorporate seating areas with different vibes. Create different seating areas with different atmospheres, such as a cozy fireplace nook or a bright, sun-filled area.
Incorporate outdoor seating. Outdoor seating increases capacity and creates a refreshing dining experience.
Use interesting materials and finishes. Varied materials can contribute to a visually interesting floor plan. Think brick walls, wood finishes, or rustic tile work.
Add a bar area. A bar adds a social element to the restaurant and gives customers a place to gather and relax.
Create a dynamic flow. Use the layout of your floor plan to guide customers through different areas and experiences.
Divide the Dining Space
If you have a single eating space, it can feel monotonous and make it difficult to entertain diners. Instead, try breaking up the space into different sections to create different environments.
For example, you could have a general eating area and some secluded spots for a more private experience. You could also have outdoor spots for nature lovers and areas closer to decorations for people who want to capture their dining experience.
This strategy lets you offer a variety of dining experiences under one roof and cater to different types of diners.
The best strategy will depend on the size and layout of your space, as well as the type of dining experience you want to create. Here are a few common strategies for dividing dining spaces.
Create distinct areas. You could have a bar area, a main dining room, and a private dining room.
Use furniture to create separation. You could use screens, dividers, or plants to create a sense of intimacy within different areas of the space.
Use different flooring or wall treatments in different areas. You could use a different type of flooring in the bar area compared to the main dining room.
Use lighting to create a sense of separation. You could use dimmer lighting in a private dining room compared to the main dining room.
Experiment with different options and see what works best.
Make a Call on Technology
73% of diners say that technology at a restaurant improves their overall experience, and 95% of restaurants agree that it improves their operational efficiency. While many restaurants choose to embrace technology in their dining space, some opt for a “no technology” rule to help diners connect with the food and ambiance without distractions.
If you choose to include technology in your restaurant, you’ll need to build a structure to hold it, including WiFi setups and hardware that doesn’t distract from the decor. Choose a simple WiFi password and display it around the premises to allow people to get easy access to it.
On the other hand, if you go with a “no technology” rule, you’ll need to create a memorable dining experience and possibly add elements like live performances or a fireplace. No matter which route you choose, make sure to get feedback from diners and consider how you can advertise your establishment’s unique culinary experience.
Keep It Spacious
Spacious premises can be great for both your patrons and employees. If you have a small space, you can use construction strategies to make it feel bigger. For example, you can encourage seating close to the kitchen, install different types of chairs and tables, use wall windows to bring in natural light, and ensure that the space is well-lit. You can also paint the interiors in bright colors like white to create the illusion of more space. These strategies can help make your restaurant feel more open and inviting.
Build Your Restaurant for Success
Building your restaurant space correctly is important for the success of your dining business. It helps create a satisfying and memorable experience for customers and increases the efficiency of your operations.
Whether you’re starting from scratch or renovating an existing space, be sure to consider everything from the floor plan to the technological structure. This will help you design an optimal physical space and enhance the dining experience for your patrons.
What do you think are the best construction strategies to improve a restaurant business? Let us know in the comments.