How private dining can maximise revene
Private dining has long been associated with celebrations such as birthdays and anniversaries, but customers are still gravitating towards intimate dining environments for everyday occasions.
For a restaurant or pub which is keen to carve out a private dining space to maximise revenue, or simply create multi-functional ‘zones’ which will appeal to a wider market, here are some considerations:
Are there any existing unused spaces?
Utilising previously untapped areas could be a solution. Perhaps it’s a small room on a separate floor or wine cellar, as long as consideration is paid to the space’s accessibility and appeal then no area is off limits. When determining whether a separate area tucked away in a different part of a building will work as a private dining room, attention to the access and the practicalities of serving food and drink is essential. Providing a seamless service may mean creating accessible routes to and from the kitchen and bar and, if the private dining room will be on a different floor, will staff need to carry food and drinks upstairs or are building modifications called for? Of course, the space must also comply with fire regulations and offer an emergency exit. During our renovation of The White Hart in Ampthill, we convinced the owners to convert an adjoining stable block into an additional space for private functions and, as a result, ‘The Stables’ is now a revenue-driving addition to the pub.
Zoning off the main restaurant
If the principal dining space is open and large, carving out a dedicated space could be another solution and incorporating screens as a means to zone out tables is a fantastic, cost-effective idea. During the refurbishment of Paris House, Woburn, we added fret screens to create a private dining area away from the main restaurant. These screens can even be customised to reflect the ambience and style of the restaurant. Alternatively, installing pocket glass doors will quickly create a separate space, while the floor-to-ceiling glass will ensure the light from the rest of the restaurant floods the area.
Think about decor
Private dining areas are often seen as luxurious and indulgent by their nature and those reserving a dedicated space for their event will expect a suitably high-spec environment. Warmer tones provide a sense of comfort and cosiness, reflecting the intention of the space while neutral and muted tones offer a feeling of sophistication and elegance. Seating should be opulent too and getting the lighting right is vital as it needs to reflect the room’s ambience. Statement lights which hang over the table are also extremely popular.
Read about our refurbishment of Paris House here https://c-i-c-ltd.co.uk/projects/paris-house-restaurant-woburn/ and The White Hart here https://c-i-c-ltd.co.uk/projects/the-white-hart/
