Serving delectable meals is only half the battle in today’s cutthroat eating industry. Today’s visitor wants more than just a meal, they want an experience. As soon as they walk into your restaurant and are surrounded by the atmosphere, that moment begins. They seek an engaging experience- an evening that stays with them. Here, the idea of “beyond the plate”, which emphasises all the components that go into making a meal at a restaurant genuinely unforgettable, comes into play. From lighting and layout to immersive decor elements, the modern dining experience today is all about sensory delights. In this article, Ar. Sanjana Singh, Founder and Principal Architect at Saaz Design Studio, explores tips to design a sensory experience in modern restaurants.
Setting the Stage with Ambiance
The atmosphere should establish the mood for the evening as soon as your guests enter. Imagine a warm aura where the clinking of cutlery creates a rhythmic background for discussion, or imagine a modern sushi bar with simple furnishings that is alive with the energy of lively J-pop tunes. French jazz is appropriate for a Parisian restaurant, whereas energetic Latin music is more suited for a bustling taqueria. These small elements, like music and aromas, trigger the human senses and set the overall ambiance of the space.
Lighting as a Main Feature
Once the stage is set, lighting has a major impact on the design of the restaurant. While bright fluorescent lighting may make even the most beautifully arranged food look unappealing, overly gloomy rooms might make guests squint at their menus. Finding a balance that improves your notion is the goal. For an intimate environment, use candles, sconces, or pendant lamps to create warm, low illumination. A relaxed brunch location might benefit from strategically placed mirrors and natural lighting to optimise brightness. Moreover, a dimmable lighting setup can be created with the help of dimmable lighting.
Furniture and Layout
Seating arrangement and layout are equally important in the design of the restaurant. Consider cushioned booths, ergonomic seats, and solid tables with a strong, well-made feel. The arrangement should give enough privacy for chats without separating diners. To accommodate different guest tastes and party sizes, give servers enough space between tables so they can move freely. You should also consider including a variety of seating options, such as bar stools, banquettes, and community tables. This allows for various options while visually zoning areas.
Impact of Hues and Colours in Design
Colour has a significant impact on how visitors perceive a space, paint selection is a key element of ambiance design. Soft, neutral colours provide a relaxing impact that is particularly beneficial in luxurious, relaxed surroundings. Bright, vibrant colours may encourage vitality and liveliness, making them ideal for family-friendly or unconventional dining establishments. One of the most common trends among restaurant designers is the use of limewash paint. Its textured, matte surface adds a soft, earthy elegance that instantly adds warmth and depth to the walls.
How does One8 Commune Align with the Sensory Experience?
One8 Commune, designed by Ar. Sanjana Singh is the epitome of how design can offer an experience beyond the place. The design begins with the bohemian flair- a coconut tree and wicker decor elements on the rugged wall. Expansive rope lights, the seating area screamed of the rich bohemian charm. A contemporary edge, rustic finishes amplify the bohemian charm and produce a multi-layered, harmonised ambience that is at once elegant and laid-back. The room is made cosier, more elegant, and more approachable by this combination of materials and colours. Additionally, the elevated bar and DJ area serve as the social heart of the space, enhancing the lively, interactive atmosphere.
The plate may become a memorable experience when every element of the space is well chosen. These thoughtful design choices work together to create a captivating narrative, from the hues of the walls to the sounds of the surroundings. Above all, an exceptional restaurant provides an experience that lingers long beyond the final bite; it offers more than just cuisine!
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