Renovating a Restaurant: Here is what you need to know

Q: Best time for a renovation?

Quieter periods To minimise downtime, taking advantage of the quieter parts of the year will ensure your business will not be too affected by the closure during refurbishment. Within the hospitality industry, the quieter periods typically lie within January to February, making it an ideal time for a restaurant or cafe renovation. Remember to make sure you inform customers, through signage or social media updates, that you plan to close during the renovation.

Q: What to do during post-renovation?

Promoting your renovation on social media Informing customers of your renovation should not only be done before the work commences, but also afterwards to show off the results. Before and after visuals are a fantastic way to draw attention, especially for venues that have undergone dramatic changes. Take advantage of social media platforms such as Instagram or TikTok to proudly share your new space, refreshed decoration and aesthetics may even draw in new customers.

Q: How long does it take to renovate a restaurant?

Renovating a restaurant can take from 4-12 weeks , but depending on the scale of the project, it can take longer to complete as no two projects are the same. Wensley group aims to adhere to timeframes regardless of its complexity or design requirements. We also understand the importance of permissions, approvals and developing plans when it involves a refurbishment.

Although delicious food and quality of service are crucial elements of running a successful establishment, ensuring your restaurant's appearance welcomes customers and leaves a lasting impression is an essential part of owning a hospitality venue. Sustaining your restaurant's interior, exterior and equipment can maintain the longevity of your business and keep appearances fresh for new customers and cherished regulars.

Whether you are interesteded in updating colour schemes or optimising your existing layout, no two restaurant refurbishments are the same.

Evaluating the Current State

Assessing what needs improving is an essential first step in renovating a restaurant or café. Feedback from customers and staff are ideal for evaluating the overall atmosphere, including decor, layout, and lighting.

Although you may have some ideas for renovation, asking for other opinions can remove the sense of tunnel vision when making design or venue functionality decisions, you would not want to try and "fix" the flow of service if it already works efficiently. At Wensley Group, we conduct a feasability study in order to ensure your ideas are in line with the current layout and budget, aiming to improve a dining space's functionality and aesthetics.

Do not forget to identify areas that may require structural repairs or upgrades, such as plumbing, electrical systems, or kitchen equipment. This may also be a good opportunity to assess venue branding and marketing to ensure they align with the desired image of the renovated establishment.

Setting a Budget and Goal

Ensuring a realistic budget for your restaurant renovation project has been set, allows you to be wary of your limitations. When planning to renovate a restaurant, consider breaking down costs per square foot to gain a clearer understanding of your renovation budget.

Exploring financing options to assist with funds is another popular method to support your refurbishment. Consider having a contingency fund, a monetary safety net, to account for unexpected expenses during the renovation process.

Do you intend to improve aesthetics? Perhaps optimising the service flow is within your preferences. Having a clear goal will help to guide your investment, focusing on areas of your establishment that require the most attention.

Finding a Contractor

Finding the best contractor for your restaurant or cafe renovation is vital for meeting your specific needs. A contractor who prioritises your vision in design, remodelling, and repairs ensures the project is completed to the highest standard. This collaboration not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also optimises functionality, making your establishment more inviting and efficient for customers.

Wensley Group understands the importance of sourcing the right principal contractor. We offer fit-outs and renovation services for a range of industries, satisfying timeframes and budgets. This includes restaurants, cafes, hotels, and other hospitality venues. We have provided countless commercial kitchens, outdoor areas, dining spaces and everything in between.

We have carried out a variety of hospitality fit-outs, varying in budget and scale, including a Mitchell's and Butlers restaurant which included dining, bar and toilet area refurbishments.

Reach out to us for more information and discover how we can transform your renovation project.

Being aware of limitations:

What Refurbishment Permits will I need?

Depending on what work you are planning to conduct, there may be planning permissions or permits you need. Notably, new constructions or changes to listed buildings may need the required planning permission. It is worth checking with your local authority if you are unsure.

Certain permissions may also need to be granted if your building is rented. Consult with your landlord to ensure all work you intend to conduct will be approved.

Best time for a renovation?

Quieter periods

To minimise downtime, taking advantage of the quieter parts of the year will ensure your business will not be too affected by the closure during refurbishment. Within the hospitality industry, the quieter periods typically lie within January to February, making it an ideal time for a restaurant or cafe renovation.

Remember to make sure you inform customers, through signage or social media updates, that you plan to close during the renovation.

What to do during post-renovation?

Promoting your renovation on social media

Informing customers of your renovation should not only be done before the work commences, but also afterwards to show off the results. Before and after visuals are a fantastic way to draw attention, especially for venues that have undergone dramatic changes. Take advantage of social media platforms such as Instagram or TikTok to proudly share your new space, refreshed decoration and aesthetics may even draw in new customers.

How long does it take to renovate a restaurant?

Reach out to Wensley Group

Whether you require a fit-out for a restaurant, cafe or a hotel, Wensley Group will offer services that are bespoke to your needs. We can provide solutions to suit a range of refurbishment tasks, including listed and heritage buildings.

Reach out to our dedicated team for more information.

Our Sectors

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Bars and Restaurants

Create an unforgettable atmosphere with Wensley Group’s bar and restaurant fit outs. From stylish bars to inviting dining spaces, we bring your vision to life with high-quality refurbishments.

Cafes & Coffee Shops

Providing welcoming spaces where customers can relax and recharge. Our expert refurbishment and smart design optimise layouts and ambience for a seamless experience.

Care Homes & Assisted Living

Thoughtful refurbishments for care homes and assisted living facilities, enhancing comfort, accessibility, and quality of life for residents. With a focus on dignity and wellbeing, we offer welcoming and functional spaces.

Dentistry

We deliver expert fit outs for private and NHS dental practices, creating clean, modern, and practical spaces with a focus on safety and patient comfort.

Gym

High-performance gym spaces that combine durability, functionality, and modern aesthetics. From specialist equipment installation to reception and locker room refurbishments, we create fitness environments built for long-term elite performance.

Hospitals

Wensley Group specialises in the construction and refurbishment of non-clinical healthcare spaces, ensuring safety, efficiency, and patient wellbeing for hospitals, GP surgeries and healthcare centres.

Hotels

Combine comfort, style and functionality for an exceptional guest experience. We work across all areas of your premises from outdoor spaces to receptions and guest rooms to do this.

Library

For accessible, modern spaces that enhance user experience, Wensley Group provides construction and refurbishment of public and school libraries.

Museum

Wensley Group specialises in the refurbishment and preservation of museums and heritage buildings while enhancing visitor engagement. We deliver tailored solutions, ensuring an inspiring and educational environment.

Office Renovation

Inspire productivity and growth in your workplace, with refurbishment
solutions that align with your brand and
business needs.