Outdoor seating is a great option for a lot of restaurants because it provides your diners with more seating options. A decorated exterior may also encourage more people to stop by your restaurant.
Designing an outdoor seating area for your restaurant involves many considerations. With these helpful tips, you can enhance your restaurant’s ambiance, boost customer satisfaction, and attract passersby in an exciting and engaging way.
Choosing the Right Furniture
The furniture can make all the difference when it comes to outdoor seating. You want to pick things that are aesthetically appealing and durable. Consider weather-resistant materials, such as treated wood, metal, or high-quality plastics and resins.
You should also consider comfort, especially because outdoor diners may linger to enjoy a cup of coffee or dessert. Cushions or ergonomic chairs can elevate comfort levels. Be mindful of spacing, too—tables should allow enough room for customers and staff to move freely.
Flooring Options for Functionality and Style
Flooring can set the tone of your space while providing functionality. Many outdoor eating areas have treated wood floors to create a rustic feel or focus. Alternatively, cement or pavers are durable and low-maintenance.
A rising trend in the industry is microcement, which offers the durability of concrete, but with far more modern customization for visual appeal. Understanding the basics of microcement makes it easy to see why more restauranteurs are adding it to their establishments. Whatever choice you make, ensure the flooring is slip-resistant for the safety of your diners and staff.
Enhancing the Experience With Lighting
A big part of designing an outdoor seating area at your restaurant is choosing lighting. During the day, you have fantastic natural lighting from the sun. In the evenings and nights, though, you want to create a safe, comforting atmosphere.
String lights hung across the seating area create a cozy, warm feeling, while solar-powered lanterns and LED fixtures are eco-friendly options. Some restauranteurs use spotlights to highlight elements of the outdoor area, such as statues or landscaping. Lighting should also allow guests to get around and create logical pathways for them to get to their table or back into the main restaurant. Thoughtfully placed lighting can turn your outdoor seating area into a memorable destination.
Designing an outdoor seating area for your restaurant involves balancing aesthetics, comfort, and practicality. The ultimate goal is to make a space where people feel comfortable and can enjoy food surrounded by the beauty of nature in a way that feels organic.
