Essential elements of a restaurant refit
It’s widely acknowledged that we ‘eat with our eyes’. Combine this with the rise of social media and it’s easy to understand why food presentation has become such a big deal.
But it’s not just what’s on the plate that’s grabbing attention – it’s the venue too.
‘Instagrammable’ settings have become nearly as important to diners as the food being served, meaning getting your restaurant refit right could easily be the difference between success and failure.
So how do you do it?
At Blok Projects, we understand that the prospect of a restaurant fit-out can be a little daunting. How do you create a space that reflects your business, offers a unique dining experience, yet still allows for maximum covers, operation flow and exceptional service?
It’s tricky – but it’s not impossible.
Here we talk through some of the fundamental elements that need consideration to help make sure you get your refit right.
Focus points
Café, Michelin-starred restaurant, all-day brunch venue or coffee house – it doesn’t matter what’s on the menu, the same rules apply. If you’re going to make your venue stand out from the competition you need to focus on the following:
– The dining area
For any restaurant, this is where the vast majority of diners’ time will be spent – making it pivotal to their overall enjoyment.
Lighting, tables and seating, wall art, and acoustics all have their part to play in setting a scene that creates the right atmosphere.
You want a look that’s unique to you, offering customers an original and thrilling experience to keep them returning time and time again. But by that token, future-proofing your design is also important – go too ‘of the moment’ and your venue will risk looking dated well before you’re ready for a new refurb.
Establishing the right look and feel is only part of the concern here. Creating a layout that caters for all operational needs whilst maximising capacity – and all without compromising the look and feel – are details that need careful attention.
– The kitchen
The priority here is functionality and safety with a design that allows for smooth service. But whilst these need to be your driving considerations, in many instances, kitchens or food preparation areas are on show to customers – meaning they also need to look the part.
Ensuring proper ventilation to prevent too much heat or overpowering smells will help to keep everyone comfortable and ensure an open kitchen adds to the ambience rather than detracts.
– The toilets
It might sound surprising, but toilets now play a big part in how your restaurant will be rated.
Well-tended, sanitary WCs are crucial – after all, if you can’t keep your toilets clean, what might the kitchen be like?! Yet toilets aren’t just a reflection of your restaurant’s hygiene levels and general standards. These days they also serve a very different purpose – as a selfie station.
It’s true! Toilets are now a prime hotspot for snapping selfies, which is why any restaurant refit worth its salt will ensure the carefully crafted mood and restaurant vibe doesn’t stop at the toilet door.
– The entrance
The exterior of your premises is top of the priority list, playing a critical role in attracting customers through the door.
Getting your name out there with attractive, eye-catching signage to perfectly reflect your business and establish branding is essential. As is ensuring accessibility for everyone with safe, easy and well-signposted access.
Serve up success
Want your restaurant to serve up more than just great food? Then talk to the team here at Blok Projects.
Backed by years of experience and expertise in the industry, and a team of skilled designers, we can help you create a venue loved by staff and customers alike – and that’s guaranteed to cook up a social media storm.
Find out more by visiting our restaurant fit-out page. Alternatively, you can get in touch now by filling in our contact form or calling 0161 452 3668.