Food and Beverage has undoubtedly been one of the hardest-hit industries by the pandemic. In fact, a 2020 JobStreet report names F&B as the second most affected industry in terms of lay-offs and temporary unemployment. While most food businesses are not yet out of the woods, the upcoming vaccine rollout promise to reinforce economic recovery. Meanwhile, restaurateurs continue to pivot their businesses to accommodate the new normal.

The approach to safer restaurant design has been vital part of that shift. In 2020, Architectural Digest reported on the changing state of restaurant operations from requiring social distancing to occupying previously unused outdoor dining spaces---changes that we have seen ourselves here in the Philippines. 

If you are a new food business owner or making amends to your current premises, you can comply with basic safety guidelines without sacrificing aesthetic value. The following design tips demonstrate how you can achieve this i your restaurant’s interior design!

Embrace Al Fresco Dining

Prior to the pandemic, outdoor dining has been a come-on for diners. A more visceral experience by way of an outdoor view and greater comfort especially where cooler weather is concerned all attract customers to a space. Amid the current situation, this has proven to be safer for customers. Restaurants at Rockwell communities, for instance, started a weekends-only streetside dining initiative for its restaurants.

From an operations perspective, access to a great outdoor space means you can spend less on decorating, and allocate more to investing in quality furniture that can stand up to the elements. This includes rain, strong winds, and direct sunlight that could result to mold, mildew, and cracking.

When choosing resilient materials for your al fresco area, consider the following:

• Teak. A high oil content makes this wood particularly hardy.

• White Oak. Capable of resisting water.

• Treated wrought iron. Wrought iron can withstand strong winds and is strong enough to last you decades.

• Stainless steel. Stands up to extreme heat. Powdered coating makes stainless steel even more durable.

If you have ample outdoor space, maximize this for a refreshing al fresco experience that will also be safer for your customers. 

Need more inspiration? Check out the outdoor seating at these fine-dining establishments in and around Metro Manila.

Use Interior Design to Create Energy

In an interview with Sunset, LEED-certified architect Alexis Readinger talks about the loss of the “dynamic energy” that characterizes the restaurant experience. This energy usually originates from the diners themselves, kitchen staff, as well as the chefs.  

With restaurants operating at lower capacity, Readinger advises the use of design elements to highlight the dining table as key spots within the restaurant space. “That could look like hanging art over each table, or pools of colored light, anything to specialize the dining experience at the table,” Readinger says.

Other ways to elevate the dining area?

• Incorporate interior design elements that take a cue from your surrounding environment.

• Display collections prominently such as a photo gallery or a concentration of wine bottles.

• Refresh the space with thoughtfully placed greenery.

• Use statement pieces such as a stunning chandelier or decorative mirror.

New Normal Kitchen Interiors

Finally, the operations aspect of your business cannot be overlooked. Safety of staff and customers in the front of house is just as vital as the safety of your employees in the back of house. The pandemic has necessitated changes to the way kitchen elements are laid out for better risk mitigation. 

This masterclass overview list guidelines by culinary consulting firm, William Caruso and Partners. Some of these principles include having clear demarcations (walls) between areas for soiled (dishwashing, laundry), and defined areas for dry and refrigerated food storage.

Work with a reputable Operational Health and Safety Expert using science-backed principles to better plan your restaurant layout from front door to back door.

Marrying design and practicality is more crucial than ever for delivering a customer experience that aligns with your restaurant’s brand but also addresses the safety of all. As always, follow your LGU’s guidelines for restaurant operations, as well as the CDC’s guidelines for restaurant and bar operators.

Need professional help with your home? Inquire with us at www.jasanchetainteriors.com