Remodeling the Commercial Space for a Restaurant

The restaurant industry is one of the most dynamic and ever-changing industries. That’s why restaurateurs must always find ways to stay on top. However, staying on top is not an easy task; it comes with several challenges. But an experienced restaurateur can achieve it by implementing proper strategies such as creating a well-thought menu, properly designing the interior, and even working on the ambiance. 

But it doesn’t just stop at creating a thriving restaurant; the restaurant owner must ensure that the restaurant stays relevant and current in the ever-changing industry. Failure to do that can make the business fail within no time. One of the best ways to keep the business at the top is by remodeling it. This will prevent the restaurant from facing a lot of competition from restaurants with more up-to-date designs. 

Many restaurateurs tend to freak out at the thought of restaurant remodeling. That’s because a commercial restaurant remodeling can be a significant financial investment. So, they’d rather try other less expensive approaches. But a restaurant renovation can be very profitable; it can increase sales by up to 20%.  There are plenty of modern fast food restaurant designs that a restaurant owner can choose to implement. 

How to renovate a commercial restaurant

As mentioned above, renovating a commercial restaurant is not a small task as it involves a lot of planning and it requires a significant amount of money, as well. This article gives a restaurant remodeling checklist that can help a restaurant owner to renovate his or her restaurant successfully. These tips include:

 

1. Devise a reliable plan

 

When renovating a restaurant, it’s good to analyze the restaurant with a reliable plan. The restaurateur needs to analyze how other brands have thrived and achieved their goals after remodeling. Speak to your associates and ask the customers about their opinions.  

The restaurant can also ask for assistance from a survey company or a brand management specialist. The data received can help come up with a solid plan that is more likely to be accepted by the customers. It’s also worth noting that when remodeling a restaurant, its core concept should not be lost; unless the owner is aiming to rebrand the image during remodeling. Take into consideration, the target audience, brand image, mission, and vision before making any changes.

 

2. Combine the plan with the restaurant’s functionality and vision

 

The restaurant industry is one of the industries with stiff competition. So, to stand out, the restaurant owner needs to set up a functional specialty and a vision. Additionally, ensure that the restaurant’s ambiance matches the restaurant’s functionality and vision. For instance, if the restaurant is offering Chinese cuisine, it will only make sense if the interiors represent only Chinese theme and traditional Chinese music. This will be more appealing to the customers, and even make them come back over and over again. Even the outside should be well thought out, with the help of commercial landscaping in The Colony TX or a similar local firm in your area, your restaurant outdoor space can be integrated into the indoor concept. 

 

3. Set up a budget

 

After having a reliable plan, the next thing is to determine a budget. Renovation projects usually cost more. The project can even go past the budget. So it’s usually advisable to set a flexible budget and be ready for any surprises. When setting a budget, the restaurant owner should determine whether they will be using their savings for the renovations or get a loan. The restaurant owner can also seek help from a professional such as an accountant or financial expert when setting up a budget if they aren’t experienced in planning a budget. 

 

4. Choose the right designer, architect, or contractor

 

Of course, restaurant remodeling requires some special considerations regarding wiring, lighting, heating, painting, air conditioning, water, ventilation systems, and so many other things. That’s why it’s advisable to work with only professionals who have the necessary skills and experience needed for the project. Check references from places they have worked before, check online reviews, and visit the previous sites to get a better idea of their quality of work.

 

5. Set realistic goals

 

Restaurant remodeling is not a decision to be taken lightly. Besides, this is not something that one just wakes up one morning and starts with the project. There must be a reason for that. Maybe, it could be to improve the décor or for rebranding purposes. So before starting the renovation, the restaurant owner must ask himself or herself why they need it. 

 

6. Prioritize key issues and plans

 

Sometimes, the cost of everything can be more than what the restaurant owner can afford. So, the restaurateur needs to note down all crucial items. Be mindful of initial must-do repairs your restaurant may need. For example, structural inconsistencies, take care of water damage or conditioning issue the building may have. There could also be other issues that the customers have. It’s best to start with the repairs and safety items on the list. If it’s a roof leakage or a congested parking area, then it’s critical to start with those. Safety repairs should always be on the top list when remodeling a restaurant. 

 

7. Consider all the latest trends

 

Before the renovation kicks off, the restaurant owner may want to look at the modern fast food restaurant designs. And of course, the restaurateur may want to know the new trends that their competitors are using to attract more customers. So, it’s good to analyze the latest trends in the industry, and prepare a remodeling plan that’s not only modern but also sets the restaurant apart from the crowd.

 

8. Don’t forget to market the renovation for the world to know

 

After spending a significant amount of time and money remodeling the restaurant, it’s good to let the world know about its presence. Therefore, it’s best to invest in an effective marketing strategy. Use social media platforms to maximize the conversation.  Digital marketing tools such as emails can also help to get the word out. 

Final words

While restaurant renovations can consume money and time, it is a worthy investment. Several studies show that a restaurant that has been remodeled can see an increase in sales by up to 20%. To reap the benefits of the restaurant renovation; set reasonable goals and objectives and hire only professionals to assist with the renovation.