So far, 2020 has turned out to be the complete opposite of what most of us anticipated it had the potential to be, right? Much of life as we knew it has been reworked to become what we are all learning as a “new normal”. As the world around us has changed, so too has changed the way we perceive our current state of reality. Adaptations have been made to accommodate ourselves and those around us, we are learning new behaviors and facing new truths. What does this mean for designers, architects, hospitality groups and restaurants? So much is still unknown about the future, that the most any of us can really do right now is think proactively about others and hope for the best. One thing is certain though, to operate or endeavor into this industry currently, means taking a comprehensive review of your establishment and making a few changes.

Plexiglass Dividers

While it may have been more of a want than a need pre-pandemic, most everyone is requiring a bit more space to feel comfortable, especially if they are out in public places. Though there may not be a clear or uniform standard yet as to how to social distance dine, proactivity is admirable and shows your level of personal interest in your community. It may feel as if there are less options in an existing floor plan and designated space but thinking creatively can produce constructive results. Plexiglass dividers are one solution that are sophisticated and low budget. Subtle barriers that incorporate into the interior design don’t scream that things are amiss but also don’t show a lack of concern.

Repair & Entertain

As the population musters the courage to venture out freely with some abandon, the desire for a special environment will become more important and evident. When choosing to leave the safety of home, consideration will surely be weighed whether it’s truly worth it or not. The dining out experience may have changed slightly but the general idea remains the same: get out in the world to eat great food in a captivating atmosphere. To remain relevant, your restaurant interior needs to stand out and entertain, which will prove that you care about the experience of your patrons. Thoughtful design pieces or elements that are eye catching can make dining out more special and Items that may need refinishing can be restored to new to enhance the experience. If your interior is slightly lackluster or dated or needs some polishing, now is a good time to consider your options.

Maintenance

Never has there been a more blatant apparency for cleanliness than current times. It’s easy to lose control of your surroundings when you’re operating at full capacity and in the throes of daily operations. However, when service nights begin to accumulate without a complete cleaning, the bar can be the worst offender of filth. Bar rot is a common occurrence where liquids begin to seep into the bar’s foundation, typically from service stations (ice machines, dishwasher) and begin to grow mold and bacteria from the bottom up. No liquid is particularly beneficial for structural material but liquor, beer, juice and soda are especially conducive to bar rot because of the sugars. It can be avoided by daily cleaning and attention but most don’t consider it their responsibility to clean the bar properly when managers, servers and bartenders have so many other designated tasks to do.

Covid-19 has changed and risen people’s expectations and a lack of maintenance is no longer a passable option. It’s a mindful reminder of how we should have always been operating but even more central now. If it was not part of your routine pre-pandemic, it needs to be a regular occurrence. It is also minimally recommended to schedule a thorough cleaning once a year to disinfect, clean, search for and repair problems. It may require a 1-3 day closing but if planned right, can be a welcome break of rejuvenation. A great time to do this is in your off season, at the beginning of the week. Bars are investments with the potential to make huge profits and should be treated with respect and care. It is also a workstation where consumables are prepared and should be sterile.

At some point, our bleak situation will be overcome and while our life may not return back to the same way it was, there will be lessons learned and ways to improve. In the meantime, whether it’s plexiglass partitions, light restoration or repair, your hospitality establishment may need to consider some worthwhile updates to adjust with the times. If you’re ready to invest in your interior for the long haul, contact us to discuss your ideas.

Design For The (Pandemic) Times

Plexiglass Dividers

Repair & Entertain

Maintenance

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