When working with a commercial contractor on the design of a restaurant, it’s important that your construction concept takes the needs of potential diners into consideration. From lighting design to ample seating, comfort and style can go a long way in terms of creating a hospitable environment that satisfies patrons. Here are four design features to discuss with restaurant general contractors when engineering a new eatery.

4 Details to Include in Your Restaurant Design

1. A Soothing Atmosphere

For most diners, ambiance is everything. Quality lighting is the first step toward creating a soothing, comfortable atmosphere. If natural lighting is part of your concept, use stylish window shades to help filter out excessive sunlight. You can also install dimmers that let you alter the amount of illumination throughout the day, and gradually lower lights as evening approaches to create a more romantic feel.

Another factor to consider is the color scheme of your design concept, particularly how it plays into choices for the walls, floors, and linens. Warm colors have been known to create a cozy environment that can enhance appetite, whereas cool, stark colors may have the opposite effect.

2. Roomy Table Settings

Layout is critical for a successful restaurant. Patrons want enough space to enjoy their meals without feeling as if they are too close to other diners. Leave enough space between your table settings, and make sure there is ample room for both customers and servers to walk around the establishment. People will also feel a sense of privacy during their dinner conversations if they are not tightly packed in the dining room. Speak with a commercial contractor to ensure that the main dining area has enough square footage to accommodate this idea.

3. Sound Levels

When planning out your restaurant with a commercial contractor, factor in acoustics and the relationship between the dining room and the kitchen. Consider partitions between sections of the eatery, so that diners are not disrupted by a busy kitchen. In addition, carefully plan where to put the restrooms. Set them in a location that is convenient to find, but far enough away so that customers who are eating their meals are not subjected to flushing and handwashing sounds.

4. Personal Touches

Your restaurant should have its own vibe, so people know your brand as soon as they walk in. Make sure there are personal touches incorporated into the decor that ties your overall restaurant concept together, like vintage photos, sports memorabilia, or even your own original artwork. If your location has a theme, include related elements in the interior design, as well. For example, a seafood restaurant could incorporate nautical designs, while a vegan eatery could offer a nature-themed, green environment.

When you want to build a comfortable, stylish eatery every patron can enjoy, trust the restaurant general contractors at BHI General Contracting. Located in Cincinnati, OH, these commercial contractors have been serving residents of Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana for over two decades. Whether assisting clients with project planning, construction, or facility maintenance, their team is accustomed to delivering high-quality results on time and within your budget. Before you break ground on your next project, check out their website or give them a call at (513) 330-5686 for more information on their services.