Learn How to Remodel a Restaurant Successfully
This guide will help restaurant owners discover proven strategies for getting the most out of a restaurant renovation budget and learn about the difference an experienced commercial remodeling firm can make in the process.
Benefits of Renovating a Restaurant
A great restaurant remodel produces a multitude of benefits, ranging from minor cosmetic improvements to entirely new functionalities. Some of the benefits that are cited most often by restaurant owners include:
Fixing an Inefficient Layout
Even if a new restaurant is being opened in a second-generation space, it’s likely that there are layout improvements that could be made to better serve the new operator. Things such as crowded waiting areas, bottlenecked staff routes, confusing entrance placement, etc. are all culprits for inefficiencies.
Fixing Safety and/or Accessibility Problems
Restaurants are full of fire risks. As such, they require stringent attention to safety in their design, particularly in the kitchen. Renovations may be necessary to create additional exits to meet fire codes, upgrade or replace fire suppression systems or install modern appliances with improved safety features.
As for accessibility, any property built before 1990’s Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) may not have been updated to meet new accessibility standards. When undergoing a cosmetic renovation it is wise, and sometimes required by the authorities having jurisdiction, that accessibility upgrades are also made.
Improving Customer Experience
Materials, lighting, acoustics, and seating choices all play a role in the impression a restaurant makes on its customers. When these elements are left outdated, damaged or poorly designed, they can turn off those customers before they’ve even had a chance to sit down and try the food.
Attracting New Customers
Exterior renovations help get the word out about the arrival of a new eatery, while simultaneously resolving any wear or damage on the façade that could negatively impact a customer’s first impression. Materials, lighting, landscaping and parking help inform on what the client can expect when they go inside, so ensure the exterior is inviting and reflective of the interior aesthetics.
What to Prioritize When Renovating a Restaurant
Choosing to renovate is an exciting moment; anything is possible. However, it can also be daunting for the same reason. Knowing what to prioritize is critical for both budget management and goal setting. Fortunately, there are a few tried-and-true guidelines restaurant owners can follow to help ensure good ROI from a restaurant renovation.
First, remember that the kitchen forms the heart and soul of a restaurant. A renovation is the perfect time to update or acquire new kitchen equipment, just ensure that it suits both the menu to be offered and the anticipated order volume.
Second, look for ways to make every square foot count. Restaurants tend to be bustling, crowded operations. Profitability depends on an efficient design that supports a busy operation. Prioritize renovations that:
- Optimize kitchen flow
- Maximize dining space
- Minimize customer confusion
- Create ample, accessible storage space
Finally, save room in the budget for quality finishes and interior design treatments. For restaurants, a guest’s first impression doesn’t begin with their meal - it starts the moment they step through the door. Materials, lighting, acoustics, and seating choices all play a very important role in defining the look and feel of the space. Win over your clients with the ambiance, before they even try the food.
9 Key Steps in the Restaurant Remodel or Renovation Proess
Finally, before starting a renovation, it can be extremely useful to understand what the general process looks like. While every project is unique, these are the broad steps most restaurant renovations follow:
- Goal Assessment: Consider the state of the space – its layout, overall condition, etc. – and determine your goals for the space. It’s also helpful to categorize this list by “need” and “want”.
- Hiring a Construction Firm: A commercial remodeling firm will provide a project manager to turn your goals into reality.
- Creating a Realistic Budget: Determine what funding is available and develop a budget alongside your remodeling firm, utilizing your list of goals.
- Designing the Space: The project manager may involve a designer or architect to help create a plan that meets all aesthetic and functional goals.
- Securing Building Permits: Your Project Manager will submit plans to the appropriate regulators, such as the municipal government, fire marshall and health department.
- Hiring Contractors: The project manager will solicit bids and secure subcontractors with the necessary expertise to perform your project.
- Creating a Timeline: The parties involved in the renovation will collaborate to determine a general renovation timeline.
- Demolition and Construction: The demo and construction phase for most restaurant remodels lasts between 4 and 12 weeks, but it can last longer depending on the extent of the work required.
- Final Walk-Through: After all work is completed, a final walk-through will take place with the team. This walk-through ensures all agreed-upon work has been completed to the client’s satisfaction.
Remodel Your Restaurant with Diversified Construction
To get the most out of a restaurant renovation, don’t settle for anything less than excellence in a renovation firm. Look for a team that understands what the job will take, and works efficiently no matter what a project throws at them. A team like Diversified Construction.
After more than 60 years in the industry, Diversified Construction has helped countless businesses revitalize and redefine their space. We’ll help you find innovative solutions to your restaurant remodeling challenges, and take care of all the stressful aspects so you can focus on the work that matters most. Just reach out to our team today to get your restaurant renovation underway.
