A restaurant or cafe owner should create an experience that balances customer comfort with operational efficiency, especially when working to a budget. The thoughtful use of restaurant design trends can also be an important way to generate word-of-mouth marketing.
By using modern design trends, you can transform your venue into a welcoming and versatile space that caters to the needs of visitors and staff. This guide gives practical examples of applying these trends in your restaurant or cafe to maximise impact without overspending.
1. Designing with nature: Integrating natural elements like plants, natural lighting, and sustainable materials can create a calming atmosphere, enhancing customer well-being and promoting a positive dining experience. Examples include:
Living walls or green walls, which are vertical plant installations, can create a striking visual feature and improve air quality.
Large windows or skylights can bring in ample natural light, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere.
Incorporating reclaimed wood or bamboo for furnishings, flooring, or wall panels can enhance the natural aesthetic while being sustainable.
Water features, such as indoor fountains or ponds, can be integrated to introduce a calming auditory element and promote a sense of tranquillity within the space.
2. Open-plan kitchens: Showcasing the culinary process can increase customer excitement and engagement while encouraging teamwork and staff communication. Examples include:
A glass partition between the kitchen and dining area can give customers a view of the culinary process while maintaining a noise barrier.
A chef’s table or counter seating can offer guests an intimate and interactive dining experience.
Open shelving and exposed storage can showcase kitchenware, ingredients, and the restaurant’s commitment to transparency.
Using ambient, temperature-appropriate lighting over the kitchen area can draw focus, creating a visual highlight and allowing guests to see their meals being meticulously prepared.
3. Multifunctional spaces: Designing adaptable spaces that can accommodate various functions, such as private dining rooms, event spaces, or co-working areas, can maximise usage and create additional revenue streams. Examples include:
A movable partition system can create separate spaces for private events or expand the main dining area as needed.
A bar area with additional seating can serve as a casual meeting spot during daytime hours and transform into a lively social space in the evening.
Incorporating foldable or retractable furniture can quickly transform a daytime cafe setting into an evening cocktail or event space.
Integrating a small retail section, such as a bakery or deli counter, can attract additional customers and provide takeaway options.
4. Efficient space planning: Balancing the seating capacity, circulation, and working areas is key to optimising staff efficiency and customer comfort. Examples include:
Designating separate areas for food preparation, cooking, and plating can streamline the kitchen workflow.
Creating a central service station for waitstaff to access cutlery, glassware, and condiments can improve efficiency.
Utilising a mix of booth, banquette, and freestanding seating can maximise available space while catering to various party sizes.
Designing a dedicated pick-up zone for online orders or takeaways can streamline operations, especially in an era where digital ordering is increasingly popular.
5. Flexible seating arrangements: Modular furniture and varied seating options can accommodate different group sizes and dining preferences, ensuring comfort and adaptability. Examples include:
Modular banquettes and tables can be easily reconfigured to accommodate different group sizes.
A mix of high-top tables, bar seating, and low sofas can cater to various dining preferences and occasions.
Outdoor seating areas, such as patios or rooftop terraces, can provide additional space and an appealing al fresco dining option.
Integrating communal dining tables can foster a sense of community and shared experience, catering to larger parties and individuals keen on a more social dining experience.
6. Technology integration: Incorporating smart technologies, such as digital menus, contactless payment systems, and automated ordering, can streamline operations and enhance the customer experience. Examples include:
Touchscreen kiosks can enable customers to place orders and customise their meals.
Digital displays can showcase daily specials or provide entertainment, such as live sports or news.
Smartphone charging stations can improve customer convenience and encourage longer stays.
Utilising smart thermostats and automated lighting systems can ensure optimal comfort for guests while also conserving energy.
7. Accessible design: Prioritise accessibility and comfort for all customers, including those with disabilities, by following guidelines and regulations for accessible design. Examples include:
Accessible entrances, ramps, and lifts can ensure that all customers can easily enter and navigate the space.
Adequate space between tables can accommodate wheelchairs and provide comfortable circulation.
Braille and large-print menus can cater to visually impaired customers.
Providing sensory-friendly options, such as dimmable lights and noise-cancelling areas, can cater to guests with sensory sensitivities, offering them a more comfortable dining experience.
8. Acoustic design: Sound absorption and noise reduction are essential for creating a pleasant ambience. Utilise acoustic panels, plush furnishings, and appropriate flooring materials to minimise noise levels. Examples include:
Suspended acoustic ceiling panels can absorb sound and reduce echo while also adding a decorative element.
Plush upholstered banquettes and curtains can help to dampen noise and create intimate dining spaces.
Carpeting, rugs or cork flooring can reduce footfall noise and create a comfortable atmosphere.
Strategic placement of bookshelves or other decorative, irregular surfaces can scatter sound waves, reducing the reverberation and echoes commonly found in spacious dining areas.
9. Sustainable materials: Eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient appliances can help reduce the restaurant’s environmental impact while appealing to environmentally conscious customers. Examples include:
LED lighting and energy-efficient appliances can reduce energy consumption.
Reclaimed materials, such as brick or stone, can be used for walls, countertops, or decorative features.
Furnishings made from recycled or repurposed materials can create a unique and sustainable aesthetic.
Opting for countertops made from recycled glass or other repurposed materials contributes to an eco-friendly design and adds a unique aesthetic touch.
10. Local and cultural influence: Infusing the design with elements that reflect the local community or culture can create a unique and memorable dining experience, fostering a sense of connection and authenticity. Examples include:
Collaborating with local artists to create murals or artwork can add character and a sense of place.
Incorporating regional materials, such as local stone or timber, can create a connection to the surrounding environment.
Collaborating with local craftsmen to develop bespoke furniture or fixtures for the restaurant can imbue the space with a distinct identity rooted in the local community.
A menu highlighting local ingredients and traditional dishes can showcase the region’s culinary heritage.
UPDATE – Delivery Pickupand Kiosks: With the growth of online ordering, delivery pickup space has become much more important; for holding food while waiting for drivers, and for drivers to wait (sometimes with bikes) if orders are not ready. If this is likely to be a large part of your sales, design the space so it does not detract from the appearance and workflow of the existing premises. > Kiosks are starting to figure in the order mix of most takeout and fast-casual venues. Set aside space where they will not disrupt other customers or the appearance of the venue.
In the ever-changing world of restaurant design, understanding and using modern trends can make a major difference. From enhancing the appearance through colour, furniture and surfaces to upgrading technology for streamlined operations, every detail matters. It’s not just about how it looks; it’s about creating memorable, inclusive, and efficient spaces. Reach out to industry experts, visit new concepts when they open, follow hospitality and design publications and innovate. It’s time to make a much greater impact.
A restaurant or cafe owner should create an experience that balances customer comfort with operational efficiency, especially when working to a budget. The thoughtful use of restaurant design trends can also be an important way to generate word-of-mouth marketing.
By using modern design trends, you can transform your venue into a welcoming and versatile space that caters to the needs of visitors and staff. This guide gives practical examples of applying these trends in your restaurant or cafe to maximise impact without overspending.
1. Designing with nature: Integrating natural elements like plants, natural lighting, and sustainable materials can create a calming atmosphere, enhancing customer well-being and promoting a positive dining experience. Examples include:
2. Open-plan kitchens: Showcasing the culinary process can increase customer excitement and engagement while encouraging teamwork and staff communication. Examples include:
3. Multifunctional spaces: Designing adaptable spaces that can accommodate various functions, such as private dining rooms, event spaces, or co-working areas, can maximise usage and create additional revenue streams. Examples include:
4. Efficient space planning: Balancing the seating capacity, circulation, and working areas is key to optimising staff efficiency and customer comfort. Examples include:
See also: Cooling, Air Conditioning and Ventilation in Restaurants: Better Results at a Lower Cost
5. Flexible seating arrangements: Modular furniture and varied seating options can accommodate different group sizes and dining preferences, ensuring comfort and adaptability. Examples include:
6. Technology integration: Incorporating smart technologies, such as digital menus, contactless payment systems, and automated ordering, can streamline operations and enhance the customer experience. Examples include:
See also: How to Boost Restaurant & Cafe Profits with Better Lighting
7. Accessible design: Prioritise accessibility and comfort for all customers, including those with disabilities, by following guidelines and regulations for accessible design. Examples include:
See also: Warmth and Energy Efficiency in Restaurants: Heating and Design Choices
8. Acoustic design: Sound absorption and noise reduction are essential for creating a pleasant ambience. Utilise acoustic panels, plush furnishings, and appropriate flooring materials to minimise noise levels. Examples include:
See also: How to Boost Restaurant & Cafe Profits with Better Acoustics and Sound
9. Sustainable materials: Eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient appliances can help reduce the restaurant’s environmental impact while appealing to environmentally conscious customers. Examples include:
10. Local and cultural influence: Infusing the design with elements that reflect the local community or culture can create a unique and memorable dining experience, fostering a sense of connection and authenticity. Examples include:
UPDATE – Delivery Pickup and Kiosks: With the growth of online ordering, delivery pickup space has become much more important; for holding food while waiting for drivers, and for drivers to wait (sometimes with bikes) if orders are not ready. If this is likely to be a large part of your sales, design the space so it does not detract from the appearance and workflow of the existing premises.
> Kiosks are starting to figure in the order mix of most takeout and fast-casual venues. Set aside space where they will not disrupt other customers or the appearance of the venue.
In the ever-changing world of restaurant design, understanding and using modern trends can make a major difference. From enhancing the appearance through colour, furniture and surfaces to upgrading technology for streamlined operations, every detail matters. It’s not just about how it looks; it’s about creating memorable, inclusive, and efficient spaces. Reach out to industry experts, visit new concepts when they open, follow hospitality and design publications and innovate. It’s time to make a much greater impact.
By Belinda Clarke
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