In the competitive world of hospitality, a restaurant’s decor can be as critical to success as its menu. While signature dishes may draw in customers, the atmosphere and aesthetics of your venue play a crucial role in shaping their overall experience and enticing them to return. With the rise of social media, particularly platforms like Instagram, having an “Instagram Mable” space is more important than ever for organic marketing. A well-decorated restaurant can encourage patrons to snap and share photos, providing free exposure and attracting new customers.
If you’re looking to create a visually appealing and memorable dining environment, here are some top restaurant decoration ideas to consider implementing in your venue.
10 Restaurant Decorating Ideas
1. Typography
Typography is an effective way to express your restaurant’s style and personality. Large, bold graphics, diagrams, marquee letters, and even fun or informative charts can add visual interest to your walls. One of the most popular trends in restaurant typography is the use of old-school neon signs. Custom-made in various colors and featuring quotes or phrases that reflect your restaurant’s vibe, neon signs are eye-catching and offer a nostalgic charm that appeals to modern diners.
2. Wall Art and Murals
Hiring a local artist to paint surfboard art designs on one of your restaurant’s walls is a fantastic way to create a unique and Instagram-worthy focal point. A well-executed mural not only defines your restaurant’s style but also becomes a memorable feature that customers will want to photograph and share. If interior space is limited, consider having a mural painted on the exterior of your building. This approach not only attracts attention from passersby but also sets the tone for your restaurant before guests even step inside.
3. Incorporate Greenery
Adding plants to your restaurant’s decor is a must in today’s trend-driven environment. Plants not only enhance the beauty and relaxation of your space but also help purify the air, creating a healthier environment for your customers. Easy-to-grow plants like devil’s ivy, snake plants, ferns, and potted palms are ideal for restaurant spaces. If you’re concerned about maintenance, you can always hire plants from a dedicated supplier or opt for high-quality faux greenery, such as a green wall, which offers an impressive photo backdrop and requires minimal upkeep.
4. Highlight Your Kitchen’s Features
Incorporating your kitchen elements into your restaurant’s decor can add a unique touch to your venue. For example, if you have a wood-burning pizza oven or another distinctive cooking feature, showcasing it can create a focal point that enhances the dining experience. Even if your kitchen doesn’t have a standout feature, consider ideas like installing a glass window into the prep area, allowing diners to watch as their food is prepared. An exposed wine cellar or whiskey wall can also be a striking decor element, highlighting your extensive drinks list while adding to the venue’s aesthetic appeal.
5. Ocean-Inspired Themes
When done right, a themed restaurant can be a huge success. An ocean-inspired theme, for example, can be both impactful and timeless if executed with subtlety and style. Incorporating elements like nautical decor, shades of blue and white, and light timber finishes can create a fresh, coastal vibe that aligns with a seafood menu. However, it’s essential to ensure that your theme is consistent with the type of cuisine you offer. A mismatched theme and menu can confuse customers and detract from their overall experience.
6. Tailoring Decor to Location
Your restaurant’s location should play a significant role in determining its decor. A waterside seafood restaurant, for instance, naturally calls for a bright and airy space decorated with whites, blues, and nautical elements. In contrast, a wine bar in a bustling city might benefit from a more sophisticated, urban aesthetic with darker tones and sleek finishes. Understanding what your customers expect based on your location will help you create a cohesive and appealing environment.
7. Choosing the Right Lighting
Lighting is one of the most critical aspects of restaurant decor, significantly influencing the ambiance and customer experience. To create an intimate atmosphere, avoid harsh fluorescent lighting and opt for softer, warmer tones. Consider energy efficiency, safety, and whether the lighting will allow customers to take flattering photos of their food, which can contribute to organic marketing efforts.
8. Sound Management
Sound can often be an overlooked element in restaurant design, but poor acoustics can detract from the dining experience. If your venue has hard surfaces like tiled or concrete floors and brick walls, sound can bounce around the room, making it difficult for guests to hear each other. To manage noise levels, consider incorporating soft seating options, cushions, curtains, wall canvases, and rugs into your decor. Professional acoustic ceiling panels can also be a worthwhile investment, helping to absorb sound without compromising on style.
9. Concealing the Point of Sale
Point of sale (POS) systems are a necessary part of any restaurant, but they don’t have to be an eyesore. Concealing these systems can help create a cleaner, more streamlined countertop. Consider mounting the cash drawer under the countertop and running cables through discreet holes. Sleek POS hardware, such as tablet-style systems that run on iOS or Android, can also minimize the bulkiness of traditional setups, contributing to a more polished look.
10. Prioritizing Functionality
While aesthetics are essential, functionality is equally important in restaurant design. A well-thought-out layout can significantly impact your bottom line by ensuring that your space is both attractive and practical. Avoid overcrowding your dining area with too many tables, as this can make guests feel cramped and uncomfortable. Hiring a professional designer can help you strike the right balance between style and functionality, ensuring that your restaurant is both beautiful and efficient.
Conclusion
The decor of your restaurant plays a vital role in its overall appeal and success. By thoughtfully incorporating elements like typography, coastal painting ideas, greenery, and strategic lighting, you can create an inviting atmosphere that not only enhances the dining experience but also encourages customers to share their experiences online. Remember to balance aesthetics with functionality, ensuring that your space is both visually stunning and practical. With these decoration ideas, you’ll be well on your way to creating a restaurant that stands out in the competitive hospitality industry.