Italian restaurants are a popular choice for many diners to celebrate events or have intimate gatherings. When you set up your new Italian restaurant, you’ll be the new kid on the block and have heavyweight competitors. You don’t have to worry if you’re offering the best food. The next factor to look at now will be the interior design to entice more diners to visit your Italian restaurant. As such, here are our quick tips on Italian restaurant design.
However, to understand Italian designs here are the basics of Italian or Mediterranean architecture.
1. Arched Columns
One recognizable feature of any Italian interior design is the arched columns. Inspired by Renaissance architecture, these columns create the illusion of more space and add charm to your restaurant.
2. Wood
Another characteristic of Italian interior design is wood. It has been a staple in Italian architecture. Plus, it’s to honor craftsmanship.
Wood can become prominent in your interior design, especially in your furnishings. You can stay authentic in your Italian design style by finding Italian furniture sellers or companies to help you fulfill this requirement.
3. Big Windows
Big windows are another main feature of Italian architecture. It brings natural light to any space. Plus, it complements the arched column design. This is also great for ventilation and seeing amazing views. However, if your space cannot accommodate big windows, that shouldn’t be an issue. Ensure that you have proper ventilation and you can still provide views via decorations!
Italian Restaurant Design Ideas
Now that we have the basics of Italian designs, here’s a list of Italian restaurant design ideas!
1. Use Warm Colors
Italian restaurants are known for warm hues and colors inspired by Italian architecture in Italy. You can decide on a warm color palette like red, yellow, and orange. They compliment it with green and other neutral colors.
Aside from adopting warm colors, you can achieve this in lighting. Soft lighting is common in most Italian restaurants, creating intimate and cozy vibes.
2. Add Arched Columns to Separate Dining Spaces
If you have an open space and want to create an intimate atmosphere for diners, arched columns can help you partition dining spaces. For example, you can have couches and chairs in one arched column space to seat families or small groups.
3. Showcase Your Wine Collection
Many Italian restaurants display their wine collection. Diners can take an interest in wine and would want a glass or bottle to see what wine selections you have in store. You can do this by adding a glass storage to your current wine collection. Repurpose empty wine bottles as a display. It could capture your customers’ attention and ask if this is available.
4. Decorate with Kitchen Items and Other Products
Aside from the Italian food, give them the vibe of being in Italy by decorating your space with kitchen items and products. It’s common in most Italian restaurants. For instance, you can display Italian food cans, which you can store on a rack or wall. You can also display the packaging of pasta items. Alternatively, you can display equipment like pots and pans. In some cases, a big wooden spoon and fork!
Additionally, decorate your restaurant with black-and-white photos of people. Ensure that you are using authentic images to emphasize the genuine Italian feel. Alternatively, you can fill the wall with multiple photos to give it a homey and cozy Italian vibe.
Finally, consider using red and white checkered tablecloths. It’s a staple in most Italian restaurants. Of course, if it doesn’t match your interior design style, then you don’t need to adopt this tablecloth. You can add this as decor or on other non-dining tables.
5. Don’t be Afraid to Go Modern
Many Italian restaurant design ideas above are inspired by classic Italian interior design or architecture. However, one good thing about interior design is that it evolves, and you can make your style unique without losing its core trait or feature. For instance, you can add decorative pieces to highlight the Italian vibe of your restaurant.
6. Add a Natural Element
Aside from using wood for your furnishings and other pieces, plants add an environmental element to your restaurant design. For restaurants without natural or fresh air, plants can provide that even in air-conditioned or closed spaces. You can add small potted plants per table or on various corners. Alternatively, you can also place them on the wall.
7. Consider an Open Kitchen
Many Italian restaurants have adopted an open kitchen to give customers a taste, smell, and view of the food as chefs prepare their meals. Plus, since many people love Italian food, they will love the idea of seeing pasta and pizza being made in front of their eyes all the more. Additionally, if you have a brick-oven pizza maker, that could be the focal point of your restaurant.
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Katrina Pascual
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