Designing or redesigning a restaurant in Kerala requires a fine
balance between maximizing
space efficiency, blending with the natural environment, and
creating an unforgettable guest
experience. Kerala’s diverse terrain—from lush hills
to coastal plains—presents unique
opportunities and challenges for architects. With expertise in
planning restaurant spaces that
thrive in this distinctive setting, here we are sharing
practical tips to help you make the most of
your investment.
Whether you’re building a new restaurant or revamping an
existing one, these insights will guide
you toward a design that is both functional and visually
captivating.
a. Embrace Vertical Design
Space is often at a premium in Kerala’s urban and hilly
areas. When we talk of restaurants no
one likes cramped small spaces. The space should have nice decor
and eventually laid out
features.
● Solution: Use verticality to your advantage
with mezzanine floors, rooftop dining areas,
or multi-level layouts.
● Pro Tip: Incorporate open staircases or glass
partitions to maintain a sense of
spaciousness even in compact designs.
b. Smart Furniture Choices
With the choice of furniture, specially theme based can do magic
to the interiors. Blending the
furniture choices with the decor theme can make the entire space
look different.
● Modular and stackable furniture allows for flexible seating arrangements.
● Fixed benches along walls save floor space while maximizing seating capacity.
c. Dual-Purpose Features
With the smart construction, spaces can be optimised for better and multipurpose usages.
● Use foldable tables and hidden storage solutions to optimize
functionality.
● Combine aesthetics and practicality by designing furniture
that doubles as decor, such
as benches with planters.
Kerala’s tropical weather is both an asset and a
challenge. It is a heaven for the tourists from
across the world but gives hardship to the property owners in
maintenance. Using designs that
suit Kerala weather can reduce the challenges for the restaurant
owners.
a. Climate-Responsive Roofing
● Use sloped or terraced roofs to handle heavy monsoon rains.
● Overhangs and pergolas provide shade and protect outdoor
seating.
b. Ventilation and Natural Cooling
● Ensure cross-ventilation by aligning windows and openings
strategically.
● Ceiling fans and open layouts can significantly enhance
airflow, especially in humid
coastal areas.
c. Materials That Endure
● Use locally sourced, weather-resistant materials like laterite
stone, bamboo, and treated
wood.
● Waterproof paints and anti-corrosion treatments are essential
for long-term durability
The ambiance of a restaurant often determines whether patrons
return. Here’s how to make a
lasting impression:
a. Lighting Matters
● Use warm, diffused lighting for indoor areas to create a cozy
atmosphere.
● Highlight key features like artwork, greenery, or
architectural details with accent lighting.
● For outdoor spaces, solar-powered fairy lights or lanterns are
eco-friendly and charming.
b. Incorporate Local Aesthetics
● Draw inspiration from Kerala’s rich culture by
integrating traditional elements like wooden
carvings, tiled roofs, or murals.
● Use earthy tones, natural textures, and greenery to create a
harmonious blend with the
environment.
c. Indoor-Outdoor Harmony
● Use biophilic design principles, such as incorporating indoor
plants, water features, or
large windows with scenic views.
● For restaurants in picturesque areas like Wayanad or Munnar,
outdoor decks or
verandas enhance the dining experience.
Comfort is the foremost thing when thinking about the
restaurants and resorts. A place can’t be
welcoming if it's not comforting. Keep guest comfort as top
priority when designing your
restaurant space.
a. Spacious Seating Arrangements
● Avoid overcrowding tables; leave ample space for diners and
servers to move
comfortably.
● Use curved layouts or semi-partitioned booths for added
privacy.
b. Acoustics and Soundproofing
● Incorporate soft furnishings like fabric-upholstered chairs or
curtains to minimize noise.
● Use acoustic panels or wooden lattices to absorb sound and
maintain a tranquil
atmosphere.
c. Accessibility
● Design ramps, wide pathways, and accessible restrooms to cater
to all guests.
● Use slip-resistant flooring to ensure safety during
Kerala’s rainy season.
Outdoor dining is increasingly popular in Kerala, thanks to its
stunning natural vistas. People like
sitting in the natural surroundings rather than the cramped AC
rooms. Keep open air dining as
an option in your design, like lawns, terrace or roof top.
a. Weather-Proofing Outdoor Spaces
● Install retractable awnings or transparent canopies to shield
diners from sudden rain.
● Use weather-resistant furniture made of treated wood, metal,
or high-quality plastics.
b. Elevate the Experience
● Add features like fire pits, outdoor lighting, or hanging
plants to enhance the ambiance.
● Create cozy nooks with comfortable seating and throw pillows
for an intimate dining vibe.
A well-designed kitchen is vital for smooth operations. Gone are
the times when you need not
focus on kitchen design. A proper kitchen design is required for
efficient handling of orders and
movement of staff.
a. Layout Efficiency
● Use the “work triangle” principle, ensuring
seamless movement between prep, cooking,
and plating areas.
● Include ample storage and refrigeration facilities to
accommodate Kerala’s diverse
cuisine.
b. Ventilation
● Install powerful exhaust systems to prevent heat and odors
from reaching the dining
area.
● Natural ventilation can also be enhanced through strategically
placed openings.
Sustainable practices not only benefit the environment but also
reduce operational costs.
a. Green Building Practices
● Install solar panels to power lighting and appliances.
● Rainwater harvesting systems can supply water for restrooms
and landscaping.
b. Local Sourcing
● Using locally available materials reduces transportation costs
and carbon footprints.
● Partner with local artisans for decor elements that celebrate
Kerala’s cultural heritage.
Stay ahead by incorporating modern trends that appeal to
diners:
a. Technology Integration
● Use digital ordering systems or QR code menus for a seamless
experience.
● Smart lighting and HVAC systems can improve energy
efficiency.
b. Multi-Functional Spaces
● Design areas that can double as event spaces for workshops,
performances, or private
celebrations.
Designing or redesigning a restaurant in Kerala’s unique
terrain is no small feat. But with the
right strategies, challenges like uneven plots, tropical
weather, and limited space can be
transformed into opportunities for creativity and innovation. As
an architect, my focus is on
crafting spaces that are functional, visually stunning, and
deeply connected to Kerala’s
environment and culture.
If you’re ready to bring your restaurant vision to life,
let’s collaborate and create a space that
leaves a lasting impression on your guests while ensuring
operational excellence.
Design Plus Calicut Kerala
