Running a successful restaurant is one of the most thrilling enterprises. The global hotel industry is fast-paced and if you don’t keep abreast of the trends, you will soon be closing shop. To stay ahead of the competition, you have to think smart and innovatively. This is the only way to survive in this highly competitive industry.
One of the easiest ways to keep diners coming back is by making their experience unforgettable. In the contemporary times, a restaurant experience is more than just the food. In fact, the atmosphere and ambience play a significant role in building a loyal customer base. This is where the choice of furniture comes into play. The type of furniture you choose determines the atmosphere diners will experience while at your café.
As such, cafe furniture choice should be done with care. The modern furniture design for cafes reflects the changing tastes of the modern diner who wants something more than what is on the menu. Whether you are starting a new venture or remodeling an existing establishment, you have to consider cost, comfort, and style among other factors when buying furniture. This makes it quite a daunting task which, if carried out in a rush, might end up ruining your investment.
Below are some factors that should guide your choice of furniture for your café in order to stay ahead of the competition:
- Consider Your Theme/Concept and Stick to it
Every restaurateur today understands the need for a theme when coming up with their café’s design. The modern consumer is no longer satisfied with just a dining experience but a wholesome experience that encompasses food, drink, ambiance and comfort. Your furniture should complement the theme you have chosen; for instance, an outdoor dining area will work best with exquisitely designed outdoor furniture. Once you have chosen a concept, make sure every piece of café furniture works towards enhancing your idea.
- Assess Customer Needs
If you are setting up a restaurant near a college, your choice of furniture will be different from, say, a café in the suburbs. Your target demographics must feature prominently in making your furniture choice. This is the only way you are going to attract the customers you are targeting. The materials you choose, design of furniture and color should easily be acceptable to your target clients.
- Type of Materials
There are many materials to choose from including aluminum, wrought iron, bamboo, wood, PVC, Vinyl, and wicker among many others. Before choosing, consider whether you café is outdoor or indoors-themed to ensure the material fits the environment. Outdoor furniture requires treatment for UV light resistance and also for protection against other weather elements.
- Size and Style
If you are looking for contemporary styling in your café, consider buying furniture that conforms to this style. There are many sizes, designs and shapes of contemporary furniture but again, you can opt to go for classical themed products to complement your concept.
It is also crucial to consider the reputation of the brand you are buying by seeking referrals from other shoppers. You should also have comfort and spacing in your café in mind when shopping to ensure the furniture you buy fits snuggly in your café.
Author Bio
Harry Smiths is an interior designer based in Sydney. He is a specialist in cafe furniture with over 16 years’ experience designing and making these products. Harry is also a certified diver and an avid traveller.