Every restaurant has its own style, but we can still observe several trends in this area. So if you are opening a new establishment, renovating, or planning a complete refresh, you should be aware of them. This applies to classic pubs as well as modern bistros and various multifunctional spaces, in new buildings and historic buildings alike.
Light tones prevail, dark tones recede
Recently, natural wood has been most often combined with light stone and other materials in white or cream colors. Purity and subtle elegance are slowly replacing the recently popular luxurious look of dark stones and industrial stainless steel. Light tones not only look more welcoming, but also make the entire space appear larger, which is particularly suitable for small bistros and cafés. On the other hand, large white surfaces are better broken up, which is why most clients in large restaurants and dining rooms choose furniture, suspended ceilings, and bar counters made of wood, veneer, or laminate.
Wood and other natural elements
Chairs, bar stools and tables for restaurants of this type are mainly made from light wood, such as various types of beech or oak. They also look great painted white. Other interior elements need to be coordinated, including the bar itself, wall paneling, ceilings, doors, etc. This gives the space a stylish and cohesive look, while still feeling cozy.
Daytime bistros, restaurants, and cafés also feature live plants and flowers in various forms, whether on tables in vases or in pots in the corner of the room. Vertical gardens and living walls made of flowers or stabilized moss are also becoming increasingly common. This decor is particularly popular in vegan and vegetarian restaurants and anywhere where it enhances the feeling of harmony with nature. The color palette in this case ranges from light brown to green to beige and white.
Industrial style and exposed textures
Industrial elements have not disappeared completely, but they are rather subdued and light colors prevail again. They most often take the form of exposed concrete textures, bricks, or exposed pipes, electrical wiring, and ventilation systems. A popular combination in this style is concrete screed with glass and metal. This is ideal for restaurants in former factories and other industrial buildings, but it also stands out elsewhere.
For a contrasting effect, natural textures are combined with lacquered wood or veneer, which softens and smoothes the overall look. This combination will also look good in more elegant spaces, which only need to be made cosier with comfortable armchairs. When it comes to their appearance, try to incorporate them into the style of the establishment as much as possible. In some places, retro and vintage designs will look better, while in others, futuristic combinations of light plush and metal will be more suitable.
Kitchens that open up to guests
Open kitchens are no longer an exception found only in a few of the most famous establishments. On the contrary, guests have grown very fond of them in recent years, and some even prefer this type of restaurant. It’s not that they need to uncover the chef’s secrets before tasting the food, but they want to see what’s going on behind the scenes and be sure that the kitchen is clean, modern, and well-equipped, which is now a matter of course.
Uniqueness and authenticity
At Alupress Design, we work with architects and graphic designers on restaurant projects to preserve the spirit of the place and the unique style of each establishment. For chains and franchises, this also includes corporate identity, which changes every few years to better meet customer needs. And as already mentioned, the style and interior of a restaurant also reflect the brand concept to a certain extent and give an indication of the type of cuisine served there.
