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A well-designed restaurant exterior can increase your visual impact and boost your branding. The first thing people notice before entering your restaurant will determine how they perceive it. This is why unique restaurant designs should not be taken for granted. Check out these eight fascinating exterior designs for restaurants that will create a memorable customer experience. We grouped the options into store signs, outdoor seating areas, and patio design ideas. 

Store Sign Design Ideas 

1. Show Off Your Name on the Building

The first thing to do is display your restaurant's name on the building. 3D signs are the most famous building signs today. They will definitely make your restaurant visible across the street, and they can turn hungry passersby into avid customers. 

Draw inspiration from this simple, white store sign displayed on a gray-painted facade. The height and positioning of the sign are visible enough to attract passersby. If you have glass walls, you can add some stickers and decals to add more appeal to your restaurant exterior. 

2. Display Useful Information on Windows

Windows are also a perfect space to display your restaurant's name. Consider adding relevant information to them as well. You may include opening hours, house specialty, or current promos and discounts. Try adding some neon light elements that can increase visibility at night.

3. Classic Marquee Sign Design

Marquee signs are proven ways to promote your brand and capture people's imagination. These custom signs still retain their popularity due to their classic look. Plus, they are sustainable because they are eco-friendly and safe for indoor and outdoor use. 

A Pylon sign is one of the most prominent restaurant marquee sign ideas. It adds a unique identity to your restaurant's exterior. You can display static or interchangeable messages to advertise your brand. Be bold in your restaurant design by showing an attractive marquee sign.

Outdoor Seating Area Design Ideas 

4. Treat All Your Visitors with a Clever Backdrop

Source: Front Signs

Outdoor seating areas determine how welcoming and comfortable your restaurant is. Install a backdrop near the seating area. This is a tried-and-tested trick. This is an effective way to present your restaurant and spread brand awareness. 

If your backdrop is stunning, customers can help but to take pictures in front of it. It increases the opportunity that your eatery will be seen or even go viral online. You can choose a simple stand or an elaborate structure - whatever matches your style. No space for proper backdrop space? Worry not because you can use restaurant wall designs as your Plan B. 

5. Use a Sign Board to Display Your Special Offers Outdoors

Utilize food or menu a-frame signs. Restaurant board design ideas offer practical ways to present customers with a menu or daily specials. You can use extra design elements like string lights to serve as dividers. This will create a microenvironment and maintain appropriate distancing in outdoor seating areas.

Restaurant Patio Design Ideas 

6. Use Combination of Styles

Need help deciding between a rustic, ornate, or modern restaurant patio design? This patio proves you can stick to more than one style. A fantastic outdoor area can be as delightful as you imagine using a variety of design ideas. This restaurant is not afraid to play with designs, from dark-colored wood panels to an intricate gold-framed mirror to chic sofa cushions. And you shouldn't be! 

7. Create a Plant Lover's Paradise

Invite plant lovers to your restaurant to enjoy the best food and view. Copy this gorgeous patio decorated with various plants. Incorporating greenery in restaurant exterior design is an excellent way to create a beautiful contrast with the adjacent cityscape. 

8. Accent Wall

Accent walls are for more than just your restaurant's indoor dining area. While not all patios offer the ability to have an accent wall, if yours does, grab the opportunity! That is the idea behind a bright, geometric pattern. Accent walls are both smart design elements and great conversation starters.

Work With Spencil for Exterior Design for Restaurants 

After having a quick look at the most delightful exterior restaurant layouts, you might wonder if you'll do a DIY design or entrust the job to experts. The latter might be the best option to make your restaurant's outside view a real showstopper. With that in mind, the designers at Spencil are experts in designing homes, offices, restaurants, coffee shops, and salons. Request a quote today to start a project with us. 

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If you're opening your restaurant or opting for a revamp, you must start with the layout design. This would involve careful planning as you would be doing the massive task of combining functionality with aesthetics. To make it easier for you, we compiled this list of ten restaurant layout design ideas you can get inspiration.

1. Outdoor Dining

If you've always loved the idea of outdoor dining, creating a welcoming and cozy space should be your top priority. Choose comfortable furniture, but make sure that these are weather-resistant. Include plenty of potted plants, hanging gardens, or a vertical garden wall to add a refreshing aspect to your restaurant.

To prepare your space for evening dining, you can install ambient lights to set the perfect mood. Also, prepare shade options to protect your diners from the sun or rain. You might also want to install provisions for background music to enhance the overall dining experience.

2. Open Kitchen Concept

Make your restaurant an exciting and interactive way to dine by opting for an open kitchen layout. It builds a sense of transparency, making the place more open to engagement. You can position the kitchen to allow diners to see your chefs at work. 

This allows diners to see how their food is prepared, interact with the chefs, and possibly allow for customization of their orders. Ensure that you use high-quality equipment and implement safety barriers or heat-resistant glass. Don't forget to install appropriate lighting.

3. Flexibility in Layout

If you're a bit undecided about your restaurant's final layout, you can choose to go for a flexible design. This allows your space to quickly adapt to different occasions, needs, or customer preferences. To do this, you need to select modular furniture that you can rearrange and move easily to accommodate various group sizes and dining styles.

You can also install movable or retractable partition walls to create separate dining areas, depending on the need. Incorporate versatile and adjustable lighting, such as dimmable or pendant lights with adjustable heights. You may also want to consider a kitchen layout that can easily be configured to let you move it around as needed.

4. Private Dining Rooms

For an exclusive and intimate ambiance for your restaurant, you can choose a private dining room layout. This would be useful for small family gatherings or business meetings. To achieve this, you must choose flexible seating arrangements that you can customize based on the number of guests or the event type. 

Consider acoustic design elements that will provide privacy, such as soundproofing, curtains, or strategic placements of your furniture. You may want to provide presentation equipment such as speakers or projectors. You can also add a private bar, a dedicated restroom, and a lounge area where guests can wait.

5. Bar Seating

Another excellent restaurant layout design option is the bar seating. This gives your space a casual and laid-back atmosphere. You can integrate it into your main dining area or allot a separate place. Choose comfortable bar seating and other furniture that match your restaurant's overall design.

Consider lighting, counter size, and options for entertainment, such as mounted TVs, interactive displays, or live bands. Ensure that your bar is well-stocked and have well-trained bartenders to manage them. Introduce seasonal drinks or create a few signature recipes.

6. Communal Tables

Foster a sense of community and camaraderie by using a restaurant layout design suitable for communal tables. This encourages socializing and would be great for large groups of guests or family gatherings. Choose tables suitable for the available space in your restaurant, and provide seating variations such as individual chairs or long benches.

Design your communal tables to accommodate various group sizes. You may want to incorporate power outlets or USB ports to allow guests to charge their devices. Avoid placing tables in high-traffic areas; instead, place them in a central location for easy access.

7. Multi-Level Layout

Why not go for a multi-layer layout for your restaurant? This incorporates various levels or tiers within your dining area. It creates visual interest while using the space more efficiently. Design each level with a specific purpose; for example, the first level is for dining while the second level is exclusive to the bar, and so forth.

Make sure to be consistent with the design, even if certain levels have unique features. You can use ramps, stairs, or platforms, and always ensure that these are accessible to mobility-challenged people. 

8. Interactive Features

Enhance the overall dining experience when you incorporate interactive features in your layout design. This sets your business apart and can add more to its appeal. You can use tablet ordering systems, interactive menus, tabletop games, and many others. 

You can also consider having live cooking stations to allow diners to witness your restaurant's culinary process. Or you may choose to offer VR (virtual reality) experiences to give your diners unique and immersive experiences. Another interactive idea is to install digital art to give your space a visually stimulating environment,

9. Booth Seating

A popular and flexible option for restaurant layout design, it offers a great balance of comfort, privacy, and efficient space usage. Identify the optimal areas for booth seating to ensure that no space is wasted. Consider each booth's dimensions, which typically seats 4 to 6 people, but you can have options for couples or bigger groups.

Install dividers between booths to provide a sense of privacy or seclusion to your diners. Choose furniture that is cozy yet durable and easy to maintain. Add adjustable lighting depending on the size of the booths, or choose dimmable options for quick adjustments.

10. Lounge Area

Provide an inviting and relaxed lounge area for your restaurant where diners can socialize or wait for a table. Find a spacious area that you can use for this purpose and add sofas, lounge chairs, ottomans, and coffee tables. Install ambient lighting using pendant lights, floor lamps, or candlelight for a welcoming feel.

Design your lounge area to accommodate varying group sizes. You can use movable furniture that can quickly adapt to these groups. You can also choose furniture with built-in storage or interactive displays to showcase your menu for those waiting for tables.

Are you looking for a quick makeover for your restaurant? One that won't require eating a huge chunk of your time and budget? You don't have to do a complete overhaul, instead, a wall fix is more than enough. Here are ten restaurant wall design ideas to help you:

1. Digital Graffiti Walls

Add excitement to your restaurant by installing digital graffiti walls. Grafitti has long been a form of expression, and technology has now afforded us to do it digitally. Installing digital graffiti walls in your restaurant lets guests express themselves, play games, or explore your dishes.

These can also be an excellent opportunity for you to announce events, promos, discounts, or daily specials. You can also use them to incorporate educational content, such as trivia about your food, the chefs, or your restaurant. They can also be an unintrusive way to gather information from your diners to help you improve your services.

2. Themed Murals

A fantastic way to beautify your restaurant wall is by incorporating themed murals. You can showcase your brand personality and identity, creating a lasting impression for clients. You may choose to display the heritage, culture, and history of your restaurant or neighborhood.

You may want to feature murals with fantasy or whimsical themes that will transport your guests to a unique new world. Or use seasonal themes that you can change every season to keep the restaurant walls fresh. You can collaborate with local artists for this, thus, supporting the art scene in your location. 

3. Floating Shelves with Plants

Introduce a touch of nature with floating shelves for your restaurant's walls. Fill these shelves with indoor plants or a variety of fresh herbs. You may choose to curate the plant selection to match a specific theme, such as a desert oasis, Mediterranean garden, or tropical paradise.

You can use bamboo or reclaimed wood for the shelves to give them an organic and environmentally friendly appeal. Use lighting to emphasize the plants while creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Go for low-maintenance plants like succulents or air plants that need little care.

4. Text-Based Decor

A restaurant wall design idea that's full of personality, text-based decor lets you post quotes, values, mission statements, or just about anything in your mind. Create large-scale murals that use impactful fonts showcasing your chef's fave recipes or a guest's fantastic review. You may also want to tell your restaurant's story or experience (like when a celebrity visited you).

Not only do these decors provide a practical purpose, but they can also serve as incredible focal points and conversation starters. You can designate a poetry corner where guests can submit their works or apply subtle wall decals with inspiring quotes and phrases.

5. Mirror Walls

For an impactful appeal, a touch of sophistication, and an illusion of a bigger space, mirror walls are the way to go. If you have limited space, this is an excellent option to beautify your walls while you're at it. Mirrors can reflect natural and artificial light, giving your space a brighter and livelier atmosphere. 

You can install mirrors to cover a whole wall or strategically place them in various shapes and sizes. Create a mosaic effect with smaller-sized mirrors to give your restaurant a dynamic and contemporary aesthetic. You can also customize the mirrors to have etchings of your restaurant name and logo.

6. Vintage Wallpapers

Add charm and nostalgia to your restaurant walls with vintage wallpapers. Choose one specific era, such as the mid-century, 1950s, or the Roaring Twenties. These wallpapers are excellent for transporting your diners in a different time. You can also choose to use various themes, patterns, and colors.

You can use Damask fabric or Toile patterns for a more authentic vintage appeal. Add a sense of glamor by using Art Deco designs popular in the mid-20th century. Or use distressed or faded wallpapers to achieve an antique look.

7. Magnetic Wall for Custom Menus

Installing a magnetic wall for custom menus is a creative and practical way to decorate your restaurant walls. It allows for easily changing menu items, such as chef's specials, seasonal offerings, and more. This dynamic approach keeps your restaurant fresh and exciting.

You can create individual magnetic pieces for each menu item, which you can rearrange or replace quickly. To engage guests, allow them to interact with these menus and have them create their own virtual menu combinations. Ensure that your magnetic boards are designed to align with your restaurant's overall aesthetic to give it consistency. 

8. Gallery-Style Displays

Want a visually engaging and immersive environment for your restaurant? Then, gallery-style displays are the way to go. You can start by featuring a collection of artwork from your local art community. This shows your support for them while decorating your restaurant walls with beauty.

You can consider using themes that align with your restaurant's identity or the changing seasons. For example, if you offer a fusion of two culture's dishes, feature them both on your walls. You can also ask your regular customers to submit their artwork and feature them here. This is great for engagement while fostering a sense of belonging with them.

9. Textured Accent Walls

You can add depth, visual interest, and a tactile element to your restaurant by installing a textured accent wall. You can do this by incorporating wood paneling, exposed brick walls, or stone veneers. These add a rustic charm, create a cozy atmosphere, and provide a touch of elegance to your restaurant design. 

You can also consider using textured wallpapers that mimic the look of the materials mentioned above. You may also use 3D wall panels with geometric or ornate patterns that give your space a modern and artistic look. Bamboo or grasscloth are also excellent options that provide a nature-inspired ambiance.

10. Chalkboard or Whiteboard Walls

Whether it's a chalkboard or a whiteboard, you can engage your diners in an interactive and enjoyable experience with these on your walls. Plus, they are functional, as you can use them for menus, specials, events, and other announcements. You can write your favorite quotes, a shoutout to a loyal customer, or a birthday greeting for a staff member.

With a whiteboard or a chalkboard on your restaurant's wall, you can ask for feedback, do polls and surveys, or feature a recipe for a day. You can post wine pairing or dinner suggestions or even tell a joke. You can also post a picture of the employee of the month and many others.

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There is no perfect time to upgrade your restaurant's interior than the new year. The holidays rejuvenated you, which means you're more open to change. If you're looking to do this, you can start with the bar. Here are ten restaurant bar ideas that can help you jumpstart the transformation!

1. Vintage Charm

Go for a look that's warm, welcoming, and full of nostalgia, an atmosphere that will take your guests back in time. Add a few antique pieces if you want to have that charming ambiance only a vintage-style design can give. Choose those that look steeped in rich history without sacrificing functionality.

Find pieces that have strong character, such as bar stools, bar carts, or antique decorations. Be careful, though. You need to add a touch of modernity to prevent your bar from looking dated. High-tech lighting fixtures can highlight a glass cabinet filled with trinkets.

2. Industrial Style

If you want a more contemporary approach to your restaurant bar design, why not incorporate an industrial style? This uses an eclectic mix of designs, from chic to sophisticated to raw and elegant. You can use brick walls, metallic touches such as exposed metal pipes, and plenty of browns and greys.

You can also use wood for the bar and plenty of earth-toned materials for other furniture to give the space a cozy and warm appeal. Use pendant or string lights for that casual yet intimate mood and charm.

3. Mirror Magic

For restaurant bars with limited space, you can use the magic of mirrors to add the illusion of depth. Place them strategically to make your bar appear bigger and brighter. Use wall-mounted mirrors to reflect the whole area while catching the light from above and spreading it throughout.

Not only do mirrors make lighting more efficient, but they can also turn a tight space into something snug and cozy. Plus, they afford customers the rare chance to view the bartenders' drink-mixing skills. Make sure to align the mirrors' design with your existing one to avoid making it look off.

4. Beach Theme

If your restaurant sits near the beach or a coastal area, you may choose to redesign your bar with a beach or nautical theme. You can use sea foam green, turquoise blue, and all the beautiful colors associated with marine life. Place anchors, ship wheels, buoys, or compasses on the walls, at your bar counter, or even on your ceiling.

Use furniture made with reclaimed wood or upholstery with ocean-themed patterns. Place driftwood in a corner or hang paintings of seascapes or lighthouses. If possible, open up the windows or add more to give the bar a light and airy appeal.

5. Green Garden

Bring the outdoors into your restaurant bar and make a green garden. This gives the place an eco-friendly appeal, not to mention a refreshing change from the usual dark and stuffy bar decor. Place pots of indoor plants in every space you can find. Have them hanging from above to fill the whole bar with greenery.

Use furniture that blends well with nature-inspired settings, such as bamboo or reclaimed timber. To make this restaurant bar design idea more efficient, choose plants that purify the air and those that are low-maintenance, such as aloe vera, spider plant, or asparagus ferns.

6. Farmhouse Style

Opt for a rustic and quiet ambiance for your restaurant's bar with a farmhouse-style interior design. Use furniture from reclaimed wood for authenticity and a little bit of rustic appeal. Find old barn doors, wooden tables, or antique wooden items and use them as centerpieces or wall art.

Use metal chairs for a farmhouse effect, even better if you can find those made from distressed wood mixed with metal. Choose brightly colored cloth napkins or throw pillows on leather sofas to give it a touch of elegance. Neutral and earth colors are your best bet when choosing a color scheme for this design type.

7. City Views

If your restaurant has a rooftop with amazing views of the city, don't miss the opportunity to make it your best bar yet. This would be the ideal backdrop for romantic dates, intimate family gatherings, or quaint stargazing sessions. In addition, you wouldn't need to place as many decorations as the view will be more than enough.

Make sure to provide enough lighting that's not distracting. Also, ensure that safety measures are implemented, such as high-quality railings and barriers that can provide safety without obstructing the views. Furthermore, keep parasols or large umbrellas for protection in case of rain and other weather elements.

8. Art Deco

You may also want to go for an Art Deco design style for your restaurant bar. Bold, geometric patterns, contrasting colors, and luxurious fabrics are key if you want to incorporate this style into your bar. Materials such as brass, velvet, and marble are some options you can use to add elegance to your space.

You can use a combination of ornate decorations with elaborate lighting fixtures. Stools with gold plating and posh seating can add instant glamor that aligns with the art deco styling. Hang art-deco-inspired paintings or, better yet, commission a mural to add decadence that's typical of this design.

9. Neon Signs

Another excellent way to start the new year with your bar is by making a huge splash! Take advantage of colors and how they can uplift your space without much ado. Use neon lights and signage to create a lively and entertaining ambiance your customers will surely enjoy.

Have neon lights custom-made to adapt to your existing restaurant bar design using your brand name or a wacky quote. Choose the colors and make sure that these match your walls and furniture. 

10. Retro Diner

Think classic American diners and incorporate it into your restaurant bar design. Get a long counter with stools made with vinyl and brightly colored upholstery. Get lighting that's bright and flashy, and partner them with checkered flooring. To complete the look, place a huge jukebox where everyone can enjoy 50s music.

Add chrome accents to your furniture and hang retro paintings on the walls to liven up the entire area. Neon signs add a vibrant touch to the overall design.

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Featured Image Credit: Chris F from Pexels

Alfresco options have opened up since the pandemic, and many restaurants have kept this model to expand their current design. Some restaurants sometimes have a full alfresco design to enhance the dining experience. If you plan on adopting an alfresco style but don't have a big budget, here are low budget outdoor restaurant design tips to try!

3 Steps in Deciding When to Have an Outdoor Dining Seating

1. Know the Regulations for Outdoor Seating

Before you decide to go for an alfresco option, some states or cities have regulations on what's permitted for outdoor seating. Some allow outdoor seating on the street, especially when it's closed at night or during the weekends or holidays. If outdoor seating is allowed on the street, ensure that you have portable or foldable chairs and tables you can store when indoor seating is only allowed during a certain period.

2. Survey the Whole Space

Some indoor dining spaces can have a dedicated alfresco dining area. However, some spaces can be smaller than others. For instance, you can only have an outdoor patio with two or three tables. Some dining spaces may have a garden space that can be dedicated to bigger parties or more customers in one lunch or dinner service. Once you have surveyed the whole area, check how many chairs and tables can fit into that outdoor space and buy the necessary furniture to spruce it up.

3. Make a List of Equipment and Other Considerations

Aside from tables and chairs, you need to consider equipment and other factors that will help you thrive or hinder your plans. For equipment, you might need a restaurant umbrella, especially if it rains a lot or it's too sunny. Additionally, you might need an awning if your outdoor seating is attached to your indoor dining area. It would be good if it's retractable so it could be protection from light rain. Plus, you can retract it if outdoor dining on a certain day isn't permitted.

Outdoor Restaurant Design Tips

Let Wood Be Your Main Character

Wood is an eco-friendly and versatile material for your restaurant. It can be expensive, but wood like Pipe and Poplar is affordable. Still, it's a worthwhile investment and will not ruin your overall design motif or theme.�

You can use wooden materials to create an extension of your restaurant. These are the best to use as walls. Additionally, wood is an insulator, making your restaurant warm during chilly days or nights. Plus, it could cool your restaurant during the summer. Moreover, you can use wood for your tables and chairs! This way, you can stay consistent with the material in your alfresco model.

Use the Outdoor Dining Area as a Bar

If a dining area isn't suitable outside, why not use it for your bar instead? A bar can take up space inside a small and intimate dining room. A bar can help you clear out the crowd as guests are waiting to be seated. If possible, add cocktail tables and chairs so customers can set their drinks on the table as they converse. You can be creative with furnishing. For instance, you can use an old barrel as a table.

Invest in Lighting to Set the Atmosphere

Your restaurant needs the right lighting, especially as the sun sets and at night. Natural lighting is what you'll use for morning and afternoon service. However, for night lighting, you can use patio lights to brighten the space and make it even cozier. You can pair patio lights with small lamps per table.

Make it Cozy and Intimate

If you have a small outdoor space and want to use it for dining, create a cozy and intimate atmosphere. The best way to start with this is to decide on the seating. You can go two ways. First, you can have a long table for bigger parties. Or, you can have smaller tables for those on dates. After the seating is finalized, make sure to add decor like plants and flowers. Plus, make sure to add candle lights, too. However, a lamp is a much better alternative since candlelight poses a fire risk.

Use a Variety of Furniture

If you have an ample outdoor space, you can have the luxury of using various furniture to cater to different diners. For example, you can have a couch instead of a big table for big group of friends or families. In another spot, there could be a table for four to five people. You can also consider cocktail tables with stools, especially if there's an outdoor bar.

Final Thoughts

A low budget outdoor restaurant design can be challenging but it's certainly doable, especially with the right space and equipment. It can take some time, too, considering it's a big adjustment, but you need to plan and partner with the right designers and contractors to make it possible. Let the experts at Spencil help you with that! Get started here.

Featured Image Credit: Igor Starkov from Unsplash

Restaurant bathrooms fall into two categories. Some are less attractive and make guests want to get out fast. Other restrooms are pristine havens with trendy tiles, energy-efficient lighting, classy dish soap, and a selfie-ready mirror. As an owner, you aim to make your restroom feel like a temporary retreat. With that in mind, your restaurant design and decor must make a good impression. To get things going, here are ten restaurant bathroom design ideas that you should try to impress your guests. 

1. Trendy Wallpaper

Even restaurant bathrooms deserve to have a "wow" factor. A trendy wallpaper like this will do the trick. A gold bathroom wallpaper idea is very much on-trend. Aside from adding elegance to the design, it entices diners to take pictures and share their experiences on their social media accounts. Consider this restaurant bathroom design idea if your customers want to talk about your restaurant and visit again with their family or friends.

2. Clean Tiles 

Bathroom tiles are a great way to contrast an otherwise loud, funky design. For instance, you can pair your stylish wallpaper with clean, all-white tiles. You'll be amazed at how it instantly balances the overall look of your restroom.

3. Match Bathroom Design with Restaurant D�cor

If your dining area is painted in warm hues, entering an all-white bathroom could be awkward. Ensure your bathroom and the rest of your decor match to make your guests feel at home throughout their experience.

4. Automated Hand Washing

Touchless faucets have become popular in restaurant restrooms as they enhance hygiene and minimize the potential for cross-contamination. Also, minimize the number of surfaces people need to touch by installing hand-free soap dispensers and hand-drying stations. And ensure you extend your efforts all the way to the bathroom door. Most people don't want to open the door with the handle. Place a trash receptacle right where patrons need it so they can toss their paper towels out as they leave.

5. Prioritize Privacy 

Ensuring privacy is essential to creating a comfortable restroom experience for your guests. Confirm that all locks securely latch, opt for stall doors that reduce sightlines, and install ample urinal partitions. Some restaurants go the extra mile by installing wooden doors for the stalls to create a more private space. 

6. Install Water-Efficient Toilets

When guests need help flushing, the next patron has a terrible experience. Consider installing toilets with a strong flush, larger water spot, and elongated bowl. If you want to replace toilets, go for a water-efficient model to save on water bills and help the environment. 

7. Invest in Energy-Efficient Lighting

Most restaurant restrooms lack windows, which requires adequate lighting fixtures. To cut on electric bills, try switching to LED lighting. This strategy minimizes energy use, helping boost your eco-friendly image and increase your profit. 

8. Invest in High-Powered Hand Dryers 

If you want to reduce your restaurant's overhead costs and utility bills while being as eco-friendly as possible, consider tossing paper towels away and installing hand dryers instead. After all, the appliances to use can significantly impact your restaurant's profit margins.

9. Hang Large Mirrors

Your visitors use your bathroom mirrors more frequently than you might realize, whether they're getting ready for a first date or a birthday dinner. Hang large mirrors in blank spaces to make bathroom mirror-check more fun. Besides, hanging a full-length mirror is a plus! 

10. Make Your Bathroom Accessible for Everyone

A few functional accessories can make your restaurant bathroom more convenient. Hooks inside stall doors make it easier for restaurant guests to hang their belongings, and flat toilet paper roll holders can serve as stands for cell phones and wallets. 

Above all, ensure that your restaurant's bathroom design complies with the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Typically, a wheelchair must be able to rotate within your bathroom. It must also have at least one stall, which should be handicap-accessible with a grab bar.

Restaurant Bathroom Design Ideas: Tips and Best Practices 

Now that you have a glimpse of the most functional and stylish restaurant bathroom design, it's time to consider the following best practices to complete your project. 

Design

• Comply with legal requirements
• Explore exciting and functional design elements
• Make your bathrooms accessible for all guests, including those with disabilities

Details

• Walk through the bathroom experience step-by-step
• Look for opportunities to provide conveniences and luxuries
• Get feedback from men and women

Cleanliness

• Develop a bathroom cleaning roster
• Ensure management signs off on checks every 2-3 hours.

Maintenance

• Perform twice daily maintenance checks
• Develop a system to ensure problems are resolved quickly

The innovative restaurant bathroom designs supported by these best practices will guarantee success in elevating your restaurant�s ambiance in 2024. 

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Featured Image Credit: Maria Orlova from Pexels

Japanese restaurants are known for their calm and relaxing ambiance. From natural elements to soft lighting, these restaurants provide a quiet break from the hustle and bustle of the city. However, small restaurant owners need help to achieve such an atmosphere. Explore practical options to maximize your space while creating a relaxing dining experience. Here is our compilation of seven small Japanese restaurant designs in this article. 

1. When Rational Contemporary Meets Emotional Classic

The most logical intention of interior design is to enhance and maximize a specific area. This example shows how it values functionality and a mix of modern and classical aesthetics. Rational contemporary is demonstrated by the pureness of concrete and grays, mainly present in the structural element of the sushi bar. On the other hand, the emotional classic is shown in the carpentry through the use of natural wood and its hand finishes. 

The large window and wooden partitions create a continuous and open flow of light and air, typical for Eastern architecture. On the aesthetic level, the designer incorporated decorative elements like faux cherry blossoms on the dining area's ceiling. Use this small Japanese restaurant design as your inspiration if you want a combination of classic and contemporary design elements. 

2. Restaurant Design that Highlights Quality Food and Excellent Service

Allow your customers to savor omakase-style tempura and sashimi dishes while enjoying a relaxing sanctuary. Traditional materials are popular in Japanese restaurant interior design. Combining bamboo, light wood, and upholstered chairs creates an inviting atmosphere as you walk into the room. Essential Japanese tableware is also neatly arranged on the countertop. After all, it is minimalistic, allowing the food and service to stand out. 

3. Intimate and Minimalist Dining Area

Our next small Japanese restaurant design option still uses wood and other natural elements. What makes it unique is that the dining area is intimate and minimalist. The dining area features a 2-seat wood table, wood floors, neutral walls, and soft lighting. It is a perfect location to simultaneously experience the intricate interior design and flavorful Japanese cuisine. 

4. Install Dark Cherry Wood Panels

This featured layout was an old studio unit transformed into a modern sushi restaurant. The walls across the whole area are clad in cherry wood. A soft-blue coffered ceiling hangs overhead, and it's grid pattern matches the black quarry floor tiles and the glass brick wall that divides the space. If you have a similar unit that you want to revamp as a restaurant, this design is perfect for you!�

5. Yellow Tatami Chairs

Our list wouldn't be complete without showing how to decorate a small Japanese restaurant with tatami chairs. This small private dining space with up to six persons uses traditional tatami chairs. You can choose tatami chairs with warm colors to complement the wood materials of walls and furniture. Plus, add minimal decors to make the overall design fun and relaxing. 

6. Small but Functional Dining Area

You can accommodate more guests using every nook and cranny despite the limited space. Aside from tables and chairs, put some bar stools or chairs for additional seating space. The black pendants that brighten the entire space also double as decor, giving this Japanese restaurant a unique and must-see interior design. 

7. Repurposed Steel Wall for a Living Wall Art

For a particular location in the restaurant, like a veranda, consider adding accent walls using repurposed materials. For example, use an old perforated steel wall as a holder for various plants. This way, your guests will enjoy the surroundings, away from the restaurant's busy dining area. 

Conclusion

Size does not hinder the creation of intimate dining spaces that captivate every customer once they step inside the restaurant. Using these small Japanese restaurant design ideas as your guide, you can confidently kickstart your interior design project. Ensure that you integrate the adequate use of natural materials and traditional elements of Japanese culture in your design. This technique will guarantee a successful blending of minimalist charm with a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

If you already have a design in mind but are still trying to understand how to execute it, Spencil is here to assist you. We aim to help you establish your small Japanese restaurant in the most efficient and affordable way. Let's talk about your dream project now! Fill out the form to begin your journey with us.

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Featured Image Credit: Laura Barry from Unsplash

Before your spa comes to life, it's a layout built or created by architects or interior designers. The layout dictates where rooms or pieces of equipment or furniture would be placed. But what should you expect during the initial design process, especially when they're still creating a spa layout design?

Retrieving Your Floor Plan

If you're renting a space where you'll set up your spa, you must retrieve your space's floor plan from the property manager. This way, you can start ideating how your space could appear before you partner with an interior designer or architect to build your dream spa. However, if you own the place, ensure you have the floor plan ready to show to the architect or designer.

Collaborating with An Expert

An expert will create a floor plan for you. Some interior designers can create a floor plan to help them visualize the space before adding the furniture, equipment, decor, and other pieces to complete your spa. Meanwhile, you can add a professional touch to your layout by reaching out to architects. They can give you a 3D model of the space and collaborate with your preferred interior designer to finalize the look. 

However, some spaces may be different from what you have envisioned, considering some concerns like set fixtures or building codes. In that case, architects or interior designers can be flexible with these and know how to work around these possible concerns.

Bringing the Design to Life

Building takes time, but your partners and contractors should monitor the space as it takes its form. Your architect or interior designer will follow the layout to the T. However, you can make some changes in the design in the future to make things work for you. 

Can You Do Your Own Spa Layout Design?

No one is stopping you from creating a spa layout design. In fact, you can make one and consult with an expert to see if the layout is doable. It's easier to create floor plans these days since there are floor plan makers that even non-designers or non-architects can use. Here are some example floor plan makers to use:

• Planner 5D
• SmartDraw Floor Plan Creator
• EdrawMax
• Visual Paradigm
• Planning Wiz

How to Find Inspiration for Spa Layout Designs

1. Find Templates

Some designers post templates on well-known floor plan makers. For instance, Wondershare EdrawMax houses user-created templates to help non-designers understand the basics of creating a floor plan. A quick Google search should also generate more ideas.

2. Browse Current Spa Designs

Spa designs can help you understand why their layouts work a certain way. You can model your spa layout designs with existing ones. Who knows, some layouts are similar, but the style, interior design, and decor are different.

3. Visit the Spas You Love

Instead of looking at images on the internet, why not try visiting the spas you love? Check what works with them and how people move around the space. Observe how the spa functions individually and overall. This helps you understand why some spaces are better with several procedures. Plus, you can assess what issues you could run into if you adapt a layout similar to this. You can learn by observing, and this will help you create a functional layout.

Various Spa Layout Necessities

Every spa and space is different. If you plan to start a spa but are unsure what spa type you want to launch, here are options to consider:

• Nail Spa - You need a dedicated pedicure station and various bars or tables for manicures. Additionally, you need to consider the space between these two areas. Plus, you need to consider the reception and waiting area, storage room, staff room, office, and bathroom. If there's inadequate space, you'll have to dedicate one area for all procedures or reduce storage space to accommodate more room for procedures.
• Day Spa - Most day spas offer various services to customers. As such, a big space is key to accommodating various customer needs in one place. It can be similar to a nail spa. But it requires private spaces for some wellness services. If you have a small space to work with, downsizing your service offerings is the best option. Or, you could have shared spaces or areas for similar procedures. 
• Medical Spa - As the name suggests, a medical spa offers non-surgical aesthetic treatments. These spas require a storage room for equipment, facial beds, lamps, lasers, and others. Bathrooms are necessary, too. Plus, you need one area for all staff to rest or convene in when there are fewer patients. Additionally, you need a reception area for patients.
• Beauty Spa - Finally, you can opt for a beauty spa, which is like a hair and nail salon in one. Some beauty spas are similar to day spas but with limited services. You can have a small space with all the essential rooms and areas. However, the bigger the space, the better it would be for you to do the procedures and leave more room for privacy.

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Featured image credit: Photo by Curtis Adams from Pexels