Revamping is an enticing idea for designers, but what about amateurs? Do they find restructuring or building from scratch intriguing? Most people would prefer not to tackle structural elements, but instead focus on the content and style to give a space a brand-new look to die for. Restaurants are perfect spaces to explore the potential of this strategy, as they can incorporate more design flexibility and bold aesthetic. These commercial spaces usually integrate a design scheme that tells a story or portrays a certain topic or theme. Design elements and decor alone go a long way to express the look and narrative you are trying to achieve for your restaurant, and also provide a more budget-friendly option.
BRICK AND STONE WALL: THE LOVE FOR NAKED WALLS
Brick walls have been a recurring trend in interior design schemes. They create a welcoming and rustic look, which is ideal for small restaurants. Despite the recognizable character, it is best not to replace authentic bricks with wallpapers or prints, as they are a two-dimensional substitute lacking the dimensionality, texture and realistic coloration of bricks and look cheap. There exist other alternatives that retain that layer of dimension and texture, such as 3D brick felt wall panels or panels with designs that add that same layer of dimensionality and structure.
NOT A FAN OF RUSTIC DÉCOR, TRY NEW COLOR SCHEMES
A rustic appeal does not work for every space, but perhaps bright or uniquely colored walls can do the trick. An easy, but impactful tactic is to create wall art if you have a more casual dining approach. The options for this are limitless, ranging from urban graffiti to modern abstract paintings, or even text. It is not necessary to use painting to achieve wall art, as there are options that already incorporate the desired art or color pieces, such as decorative interior wall paneling. Through implementing these panels it is possible to generate attractive color schemes using multi-color wall panels or tiles.
Additionally, wall panels come in different shapes and sizes, as well as in solid colors for a more uniform look.
CLEAN LITTLE CHIC RECEPTION AREA
Continuing with the exploration of small spaces, reception areas are also great concentrated spaces easily revitalized through thoughtful design and decor. These spaces are also very important, as they provide the first experience a client will have with a business and start to show what they are about. Depending on the level of formality, there exists a variety of neutral colors that can be selected from as well. Depending on the business and the surrounding environment, there are also more dynamic panels such as waterproof wall panels, or textured wall panels to blend with the surrounding space. The options and combinations of panels can result in stunning designs that are also appropriate for the specific needs of your reception area.
LIGHT IT UP NOW
While the introduction of colors and shapes add character, lighting is a powerful element not to be overlooked, especially for smaller spaces. It is important to think about avoiding direct lighting facing the customers, or having unnecessary levels of lighting intensity. Lighting alone can greatly affect the comfort level and mood of a space and of its guests. Carefully designing with dynamic lighting implementations can make a significant difference. Today there exist limitless options for lighting fixtures to achieve all kinds of lighting effects and intensities, making it easy to select the ones that work best after careful consideration.
A WALL TO SCRIBBLE ON
Small restaurants and spaces have the possibility of implementing some of the most creative decor ideas onto their walls, as they will make up the majority of the confined space. One trending idea, for example, is a comment wall for the customers to write on or sign. The easiest way to achieve this would be by using blackboard walls and chalk. Previously blackboards have been used by restaurants and cafes to write out their menus and specials. However, this would also be a good option for the customers to allow them to interact with the business and create a more cordial relationship with them. A scribbled or message-filled wall can tell a unique, personalized story.
KEEP IT SIMPLE
The selection of dinnerware and tableware can also have an impact when attempting to tie in a certain aesthetic or theme. For example, melamine, ceramic or metallic tableware can each give a different characteristic and elevated look depending on the restaurant design. Depending on the selection of materials, it is possible to make a cost-effective, but also durable choice. For a more personal touch, it is a unique and elegant idea to have your restaurant logo embossed on the plates or napkins, for example.
HOW ABOUT AN ACCESSORY OVERHAUL?
It is possible to overdo the decor and have an overaccumulation of objects, and therefore important to remember that this is not your home, and the design is not dependent on personal taste. Decorate your commercial spaces with items that are aligned with the theme and narrative specifically. Even if it is not your personal style, you can experiment with trendy artwork, colors, and unconventional lighting. If a more formal touch is needed, you can gravitate toward more subtle, geometric designs and colors, such as earthy tones or flat metallic wall panels.
LIGHTS, COLORS, WHERE’S THE Sound?
To successfully create a welcoming and cozy ambiance, you can go beyond textures and ornaments and incorporate subtle music to play in the background. Some restaurants may have a live DJ, band, or even karaoke, as long as it is appropriate for the restaurant environment and not disturbing or conflicting among the clients. Be considerate about the ambiance and type of crowd that frequents your restaurant when generating your list of songs or ambient music.
A BIT GREENER
Infusing greenery into a restaurant as centerpieces or surrounding pots and planters is always a great and uplifting choice. Vibrant flowers and lush plants pair well with all sorts of other decorative items and do not clash with the ambiance, especially in small or quaint restaurant spaces. Aside from pots and planters, glass bottles and bowls filled with flowers, succulents, or lush greens add a sophisticated and timeless touch as they allow you to see not only the full extent of the plants or flowers, but also the crystal clear water filling the vases. Being able to see water and greenery adds a biophilic element, connecting us with nature soothingly. Similarly, built-in booth or wall planters can also hold all sorts of small and large-scale foliage transporting us to natural landscapes or beautiful gardens.
MIRROR, MIRROR ON THE WALL
Expanding on the aforementioned topics of lighting and glass as decoration elements, mirrors can seamlessly bring a graceful combination of both. Framed mirrors can add an extra layer of decor to the walls as their frames can come in a variety of designs, whether they be gold, wood, black or white, depending on the specific look. More importantly, mirrors are able to give the illusion of a more expansive space. This is especially important in small restaurants that can feel tight and confined. When large mirrors, or even a multitude of mirrors are added to a wall, the whole other side of the restaurant is reflected in the mirrors, making it look like the restaurant continues beyond that wall. Aside from reflecting the space, and people within that space, mirrors also reflect light, which can carry and expand the lighting beyond the point where it is located, significantly brightening up the entire space.
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