Most restaurant owners want their restaurant to be fresh and unique and a representation of the cuisine they serve
Most restaurant owners want their restaurant to be fresh and unique, a representation of the cuisine they serve, as well as a spot that customers want to visit time and time again, but sometimes the most well-intentioned restaurateurs get the decor wrong — whether that’s by following trends with abandon or cutting corners that shouldn’t be cut. Here’s a look at some of the biggest mistakes in restaurant decor, as well as how to avoid these common missteps.
Take a look at some of the biggest mistakes in restaurant decor.Click To Tweet
Don’t Follow the Trends Too Closely
These days, many so-called trends appear to be here to stay. We’re talking sustainability, natural lighting and attention to graphic design — but these traits are more indicative of consumers’ growing expectations for quality.
Trends, on the other hand, will eventually make your restaurant feel old and out of touch. Our suggestion is to incorporate less permanent solutions — i.e. mason jars as candle holders or succulents on the table, or even a bold-colored accent wall—things that, once they’ve run their course, you won’t be out much money.
Get the Lighting Right
Don’t underscore the importance of mood lighting, it affects diners much more than one might assume. No one wants to eat their food, no matter how delicious, while under the unflattering and jarring glow of a fluorescent bulb. Get the lighting right, and your restaurant will be date spot for anniversaries and new couples alike. Think dim lighting, if you’re open for dinner, lanterns, diffusers and warm-colored light bulbs can help set the tone.
Or, if you’re a cheery brunch spot, bakery or café doing the bulk of your business during the day, open the windows and let the sunshine in. Painting walls bright colors like pink, yellow or a vibrant blue can give the space the energy and brightness that will keep people coming back for more.
Don’t Settle for Cheap-Looking Furniture
While it’s worthwhile to try and save money whenever possible. Tables and chairs should feel solid and offer a cohesive look, not a slapped together assemblage of mismatched furniture. When it comes to booths, the look and feel go a long way. Rips and tears are unacceptable, and materials matter. Check out restaurant-furniture.com to get a sense of which booths, tables, chairs and more will work best in your space.
If Possible, Ditch the Carpet
Rarely is carpet a good idea in the realm of restaurant décor. For one, it hangs onto lingering smells, traps dirt and just looks dated. And not in a cool, vintage way—more like your grandmother’s basement. Look at polished concrete, hardwood floors, tile or linoleum—basically anything but carpet. Plus, according to OSHA guidelines, old, worn carpet poses a safety risk to staff and diners.
Temperature
While not a decorating mistake, per se, a restaurant blasting cold air can make diners uncomfortable and prevent them from having a nice time while in your establishment. Keep the dining area around 70 degrees or so to accommodate most guests.
