The design of a bar or restaurant sets the entire tone of the guest experience, according to Alexis Pierson, a designer at Legeard Studio, a New York- and Miami-based design firm that focuses on the convergence of art, architecture, and technology. “Thoughtfully designed visuals, textures, and sounds should enhance the overall ambiance instead of causing a distraction,” she said. “Guests are more likely to return to a restaurant for the atmosphere, not just delicious food.”
Certainly, the interior design of a bar or restaurant is all about attracting customers, creating the right atmosphere, and making the experience memorable so customers return. Yet, it’s also about making the space highly functional for staff and operations.
For Robert Ervin—owner and principal architect at Ervin Architecture, an architect and interior design team in Maine and Florida—the current bar and restaurant design trend is leaning towards atmosphere and great cocktails rather than excellent food. “Obviously, there are exceptions, but younger generations are more in a ‘see and be seen’ mentality, where ‘Instagrammable’ atmospheres are desired and everything else is secondary,” he said. “Now, more than ever, people want to be transported to another place when they dine. No longer can the food do it single handedly.”
Vincent Celano, founder and principal of Celano Design Studio Co., believes the interior design of a bar or restaurant is vital for the overall customer experience. “Design equals positive revenue and an ROI; a good design will create a good experience—it’s part of the theater, so it should be a priority along with the food and service,” said Celano, whose N.Y.C.-based design team serves the hospitality industry.
Hospitality Works’ Izzy Kharasch, a restaurant industry consultant in Chicago, said the interior design of a bar or restaurant, as it relates to the overall customer experience, is far more important than most owners and operators understand. “A great interior design can enhance the overall check average/sales, and a poor design can drive sales down.”
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