What if you could expand your restaurant to have outdoor seating? This dream, which is the ultimate in patio living, can be a reality with some careful consideration.
It’s not always easy to design and build an outdoor area for a restaurant because you need to address many factors. However, you can make a smooth transition and establish an outdoor space that your customers will love with the right tips at hand. Below are some tips on how to get started:
Define the Purpose of Your Outdoor Area
Before you start building or making changes to your existing space, it’s essential to take a step back and think about what you want to use the outdoor area for. Once you know the purpose of your outdoor space, you can start planning accordingly.
Having a clear purpose for your outdoor area will also help you determine the type of furniture and fixtures you need. For example, if you want it to be a place for people to gather and mingle, you might want to consider adding some comfortable seating and maybe even a fire pit. On the other hand, if your goal is to have a space where people can enjoy their meals, you’ll need to create a functional layout with adequate seating and table space.
Whichever route you decide to go, ensure that your outdoor area complements your restaurant’s indoor space and overall theme.
Choose the Right Furniture
One of the most important aspects of any outdoor area is the furniture. It needs to be comfortable, but it also needs to be durable and able to withstand the elements.
When choosing furniture for your outdoor restaurant, it’s essential to consider your area’s climate and weather conditions. Suppose you live in a room with harsh winters. In that case, you’ll need to make sure that your furniture can withstand the cold and snow.
In addition to climate, you also need to consider the amount of foot traffic your outdoor area is likely to get. If you expect many people to be coming and going, you’ll need to choose furniture that can handle the wear and tear.
Finally, you also need to think about the overall aesthetic of your outdoor space. The furniture should fit with the style of your restaurant and create a cohesive look.
Add Some Support Structures
Does the sun beat down on your outdoor area during the day? You might want to consider adding some support structures, such as sunshade awnings or umbrellas, providing your customers with some form of protection.
These structures make it more comfortable for your guests and help protect your furniture from the sun’s damaging rays. Plus, they can add a touch of style to your outdoor space.
You can also use support structures to create different areas within your outdoor space. For example, you can use them to delineate a dining area from a lounge area. Just make sure that whatever structures you add don’t block the view of your restaurant from the street or sidewalk.
Include Some Greenery
No outdoor space is complete without some greenery. It makes the area more visually appealing and can also help create a more peaceful and calming atmosphere.
When adding plants to your outdoor restaurant, be sure to choose varieties appropriate for the climate and don’t require a lot of maintenance. You also want to make sure that they won’t attract pests.
Especially for your business, pests can be a huge problem. The presence of uninvited creatures like cockroaches, rodents, and flies can spoil the mood of customers and damage your reputation.
Lighting is Key
Proper lighting is essential for any outdoor space, but it’s crucial for restaurants. It’s both decorative and protective. It adds to the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space, but it can also help deter robbers.
When choosing to light for your outdoor restaurant, you’ll need to consider both function and style. You’ll want to make sure that the lighting is bright enough to allow your customers to see their food, but you don’t want it to be so bright that it’s blinding.
There are various types of lights you can choose from, so take some time to explore all of your options before making a decision. And be sure to consult with an electrician to ensure that the lighting you choose is safe and up to code.
Designing an outdoor restaurant area can be a fun and challenging project. You’ll need to consider a variety of different factors, such as climate, foot traffic, and style. But with careful planning, you can create an outdoor space that your customers will love. Just make sure to choose furniture and plants that are durable and low-maintenance, and be sure to add some support structures and lighting for both function and style. With a bit of effort, you can create an outdoor space that’s both inviting and practical.
