Are you a restaurant owner looking to design your establishment on a tight budget? If so, you're in luck! We have compiled a list of ten small restaurant design examples that will inspire you to create a beautiful and functional space. While the food you serve is crucial, the ambiance and decor play a significant role in attracting repeat customers.
Be Smart With Your Restaurant Layout
The layout of your restaurant is the key to a successful low budget design. Instead of cramming as many tables as possible, give your layout some breathing space. Leave at least five feet between tables to ensure comfort for both diners and waitstaff. Consider utilizing the space along walls by lining them with booths or tables. This will create corridors for easy movement and provide a cozy atmosphere.
Image source: Saigon Intela
Pay Attention to the Lighting
Lighting is a crucial element in any restaurant design. Instead of relying solely on functional spotlights, get creative with pendant lighting, wall sconces, or individual table lamps. By combining different types of lighting, you can create pockets of pleasant illumination throughout your restaurant. Consider using vintage table lamps for a touch of elegance or individual tealights for an instant intimate effect.
Think Beyond Plain Walls
While minimalist white walls are often recommended for small spaces, they may make your restaurant feel even smaller. Consider painting the walls a darker color for a cozy and dramatic look. Charcoal, dark red, teal, or dark blue can work well in small restaurant spaces. Pair them with velvet or leather furniture in complementary colors to create a luxurious vibe. Alternatively, enhance white walls with bold prints or create a gallery wall with inexpensive vintage prints.
Image source: Saigon Intela
Use Mirrors to Make the Space Appear Larger
Mirrors are a restaurant designer's best friend. Strategically placed medium-sized mirrors can make your space appear larger. Consider dedicating one wall to a large mirror, but make sure it doesn't have any tables beside it to avoid distractions. Textured or antique mirrors can add character and soften the overall look of your restaurant.
Add Character With Vintage Furniture
Incorporating vintage furniture into your small restaurant design adds personality and creates a unique and memorable space. Look for affordable options on eBay, local markets, or vintage sellers. Opt for wood furniture over metal or plastic as it adds elegance and warmth to your restaurant. Ensure that all chairs and tables are steady and comfortable for your diners.
Image source: Saigon Intela
Enhance Your Design With Unique Decorations
Decorations can make your small restaurant stand out and leave a lasting impression on your customers. Start with quirky salt and pepper shakers, decorative ceramic plates, or interesting objects that match your restaurant's color scheme. These simple additions can create a fun and unique atmosphere that will make your diners want to come back for more.
Invest in Quality Tableware
Investing in good-quality tableware can elevate the dining experience for your customers. Even if you're running a small pizza restaurant, using real cloth napkins and nice porcelain plates can make a significant difference. Look for affordable options at major retailers or online. If your restaurant serves wine, consider investing in wine glasses to enhance the overall experience.
Image source: Saigon Intela
Get Creative With Art and Window Treatments
If you're looking to add more character to your restaurant design, consider commissioning a local artist to create a wall mural. Murals and wall art are memorable and affordable options that support local talent. Alternatively, colorful curtains or drapes can add a touch of charm to your windows. Choose heavier fabrics for a cozy atmosphere or lighter fabrics for a light and bright ambiance.
Draw on the Power of Plants
Potted plants are an affordable way to add charm and a natural element to your small restaurant design. Line the windows with plants for a cheerful look or place them on tables for a botanical theme. Remember to water and care for your plants to maintain their vitality. Consider using cacti and succulents for low maintenance options that add greenery to your space.
Image source: Saigon Intela
Sensory Branding With Sound and Scents
Don't underestimate the power of sensory branding in your restaurant's design. Use light background music to enhance the atmosphere, but be mindful of volume to ensure comfortable conversation. Pleasant fragrances can also enhance the dining experience, but avoid overpowering scents that clash with the food. Consider using essential oil diffusers or burning incense in moderation.
Add Fresh Flowers to the Tables
Fresh flowers bring joy and a touch of elegance to any small restaurant's interior design. Placing a single flower on each dining table shows your customers that you care about their experience. Consider commissioning a floral centerpiece from a local florist to add flair and freshness to your restaurant. Seasonal flowers and plants can last for weeks and create a welcoming atmosphere.
These low-budget small restaurant design ideas will help you create a memorable dining experience that keeps customers coming back for more. Remember to prioritize layout, lighting, walls, and tableware, and add your unique decorative touches. The combination of these elements will elevate the ambiance of your restaurant and leave a lasting impression on your diners.
