Choosing the perfect aesthetic for your restaurant can feel overwhelming. With so many design and decor ideas available, it can be challenging to know where to start. However, finding the right atmosphere is crucial to create a memorable dining experience for your guests. To help you narrow down your options, we have compiled a list of 12 restaurant design ideas that will inspire you to create a unique and inviting space.
Typography
Incorporating typography into your decor can be a fun and eye-catching way to add personality to your restaurant. Bold graphics, marquee letters, and diagrams are all popular choices. Consider using old-school neon signs with custom-made quotes or phrases that reflect the vibe of your establishment.
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Support Local Artists
If you're looking to design on a budget, reach out to local artists for help. Showcase their work by creating a gallery-style wall featuring a new artist or group of artists either monthly or quarterly. This not only adds unique decor to your space but also provides exposure and potential sales for the local talent.
Murals and Wall Art
Another great way to showcase local artists is by hiring them to create murals or graffiti-style wall art. These Instagram-worthy backdrops will encourage guests to take photos and share them, providing you with additional publicity in the form of user-generated content. If you have limited wall space inside, consider placing a mural on your building's exterior.
Go Green
Introduce greenery into your restaurant's decor by incorporating indoor plants. Not only do plants add beauty and a sense of relaxation, but many also help purify the air. They can also visually reinforce the freshness of your ingredients to your guests.
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Open Up the Space
Consider making the kitchen part of the overall decor, especially if you have unique features like a wood-burning pizza oven. If exposing the kitchen isn't possible, think about creating a unique space such as an exposed wine cellar or a whiskey tunnel. Allowing guests to get a glimpse of behind-the-scenes sparks their interest and promotes conversation, which can lead to increased spending.
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Pick a Theme
Themed restaurants can be a hit, as long as the theme is chosen wisely. Avoid trendy themes that may quickly become dated. Instead, select a theme that aligns with your menu or brand and incorporate it in a modern way. For example, Ladybird's 1970s-style summer camp theme adds a nostalgic touch without feeling overwhelming.
Modern Minimalism
For those who prefer a minimalist vibe, consider adopting clean lines, natural materials, and a simple color scheme. Keep in mind that achieving a simple design can be challenging as every little detail matters and will be noticed.
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Embrace the Classics
Classic looks never go out of style, especially if they align with your restaurant's menu. French bistros, 1950s-style diners, or classic pizzerias can evoke a sense of nostalgia while still maintaining a modern twist.
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Community-Centered Design
Restaurants have the power to bring communities together. Consider adding a communal table, eliminating TVs, or offering board games for guests to enjoy while they wait. Creating a space that encourages connections among patrons will enhance the overall dining experience.
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Location-Based Design
Sometimes the location of your restaurant will naturally influence its design. A seafood restaurant by the water may call for a color scheme of blues and whites, with nautical touches. On the other hand, a BBQ joint in Texas might go for a completely different aesthetic. Consider the surroundings and the expectations of your customers when designing your space.
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Be Mindful of Lighting
Lighting plays a crucial role in creating ambiance in your restaurant. Consider the type of environment you want to create and how you want your guests to feel. Additionally, think about energy efficiency, staff safety, and whether you want customers to capture their meals for social media.
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Functionality is Key
Though less glamorous, ensuring your restaurant functions smoothly is essential for success. Hire a professional designer to plan your layout and maximize functionality. Don't let a small space feel crowded or cramped!
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Restaurant Design Tips from HGTV's Taniya Nayak
As an award-winning designer, Taniya Nayak has invaluable insights into intelligent restaurant design. Here are some of her expert tips to enhance the dining experience:
Take a Seat
Consider every seat in the restaurant and ensure that each guest has a pleasant view. Visual appeal from every angle adds to the overall ambiance.
Bright Lights, Big Problem
Avoid bright cafeteria-style lighting. Instead, create a proper dining experience with ambient lighting that can be adjusted throughout the day. Leave the fluorescent lights for the kitchen.
Don't Hide the Host
Place the host stand in a visible area where guests can easily see and be greeted by the host. A warm welcome sets the tone for a positive dining experience.
Consider Sound and Materials
Choose materials that help absorb sound waves to minimize noise. Incorporate soft seating options, acoustical ceiling tiles, or drapery to create a more pleasant dining atmosphere.
Read Between the Lines
Align the design of your restaurant with the type of cuisine being served. The decor should complement the menu, creating a cohesive dining experience.
Let History Repeat Itself
Incorporate elements of the venue's history or the local area into the design. Guests appreciate a good story and a connection to the place they are dining in.
Don't Forget Where You Came From
Stick to your initial design concept and refer back to it throughout the process. This will help ensure that the final result aligns with your vision.
Designing and starting a restaurant is a significant endeavor. Consider using software like Lightspeed to simplify your day-to-day operations and help your restaurant thrive. Chat with one of our restaurant experts to discover how Lightspeed can provide the tools your restaurant needs to succeed and grow.
