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Five ways to design your patio to capture summer business
By Steven Forler
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As summer approaches many restaurateurs are looking to capture additional business on their patios. Too often, it is a last-minute hustle to cram as many plastic chairs out front as possible. In today’s competitive marketplace owners are raising the bar on patio design and going the extra mile to create a patio-dining experience unique to their operation that will attract more business. The following five tips will help your business prepare for the season.
1. Add umbrellas
They scream: Patio here, sit down have a drink. Use colours in your umbrellas that reinforce your interior concept. Umbrellas are the flag that waves people down on the street and invites them to your establishment. Giving customers shade will allow them to sit out longer in the summer sun and increases your best seat options.
2. Develop a summer patio menu
Consider quick-serve and patio-friendly finger foods, burgers and grilled sandwiches. Spiked lemonades, coolers and mohitos are popular drinks, so promote them. Lean on your liquor and beer companies for assistance in promotionals to give your marketing a boost. Many patrons that may not typically visit your restaurant may sit on your patio, so wow them with a great patio menu.
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3. Invest in good patio furniture
Too often the patio is thrown together in a last-minute rush. Some good planning goes a long way. Your patio is an extension of your restaurant so you want to consider how you want to entertain your guests. Maybe add a combination of seating options. Club-style seating may take up more space but will cater to a certain crowd. There are many new seating and table options that come in a variety of finishes and styles. It is now possible to distinguish yourself from the competition with a different look; one that matches your interior concept.
4. Add planters
Planters are the least expensive way to add colourful impact to your patio. Use window boxes, hanging planters and planter boxes. Urns come in all shapes, sizes and colours. Mix up a few options together to create a landscape of colours. Flowers such as impatiens, begonias and geraniums are popular options that flower all summer long and come in many colours and species. Add some feather grasses. The motion that they create blowing in the wind will add dimension to your patio and attract attention to your patio.
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5. Add patio heaters
Extend your summer season. It is amazing how many Canadians will huddle around tables located under patio heaters because they are anxious to break the winter blues or get that last night out on your patio before the snow flies. Other heating options include open gas fires and fireplaces. It may sound extreme but if you have the space it will attract patrons who want be part of your experience.
Patio tips:
· Make all components detachable and lightweight. Most owners are required to move their components into storage over the winter months so keep items small and lightweight so they can be easily transported.
· Keep plants watered. Make it a routine and inform your staff. Keep your investment looking fresh and alive.
· When considering furniture options for a small patio, consider round tables that are easier to navigate around, and use chairs without arms. It will make your patio feel less cluttered and allow patrons freedom of movement.
About the author:
Steven Forler, president and designer at Squarefoot Design Inc. For more information, visit: www.squarefootdesign.com
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