It’s inevitable. Design trends come and go. Before you know it, a restaurant that once seemed chic is starting to look outdated. That’s when it’s time to hit refresh!

Whether you’ve been in the same restaurant space for a while or you’ve just moved in, meeting your design goals will take some careful planning. Since eateries in Ontario can’t operate as normal right now, it’s a good time to dedicate yourself to choosing and carrying out just the right changes.

Here are a few tips for ensuring that your restaurant remodel is both low-stress and successful…

1) Create a plan

Before any work begins, you’ll need to do your research. If you’re thinking about decor, consider what’s working for your favourite local eateries. If you have a staff that you’ve employed for a while, they’re the perfect people to consult about increasing efficiency. Is the equipment they use functioning well? Are your servers having trouble with your current setup?

Once you know what needs to be done, it’s time to create your budget. Think about your current sales, your loan eligibility, and any savings you can tap in to. When you’re building your timeline, do your best to factor in pandemic-related delays.

2) Find the right professionals

There’s a professional for every job, it’s just a matter of finding the right ones. Depending on how extensively you’re renovating, you may need the services of architects, interior and lighting designers, and contractors (among others).

You want to ensure that your remodelling work is up to your standards—and up to code. To find service providers who can offer that, you may have to shop around. Ask for recommendations within your networks, read online reviews, and pose as many questions as you need to before you start working with someone. Don’t forget to request quotes!

3) Prioritize

Major remodels have a way of taking longer—and costing more—than expected. As a result, you may find yourself in a position where you have to reassess your needs and reallocate your spending.

While you may be dreaming of a brand new restaurant interior, it’s important to focus on critical issues first. That means potential safety hazards, anything that’s not up to code, and issues that will impact day-to-day efficiency.

4) Keep your aesthetic in mind

Of course, prioritizing must-fix issues shouldn’t mean neglecting the look and feel of your restaurant. Whether your vision is for a trendy bistro, sophisticated wine bar, or vintage diner, creating a comprehensive aesthetic is one of the keys to success.

Luckily, you can make your space feel pulled together without spending a large fortune. You may have to look around for a designer who can work within your budget—or do more digging for decor within your price range. Just be sure you have a clear idea of the atmosphere you’re creating!

5) Consider your customers

If you’ve been serving customers for a while, consider getting their feedback. If you’re in a position to reach out to any of them, ask about their experiences in your eatery.

You can also think about times you’ve watched your patrons enjoy their meals. How did they interact? Did they have to raise their voices to be heard? Did they appear to have enough space do pull out their chairs, and a smooth path to the entrances and washrooms?

Remodelling a restaurant requires patience and dedication. To help ensure your success, budget cautiously, pad your timeline, and work with the best professionals in the biz!

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