Whether starting a new restaurant or remodeling an existing one with a new facade, a well-designed renovation can transform your business and update your customers’ dining experience in Canada, where the hospitality industry is competitive and dynamic, being current with contemporary trends, safety regulations, and practical layouts matters.
Here’s what you need to know before diving into a restaurant renovation—and how the right commercial general contractor in Edmonton or elsewhere in Canada can help.
Know Your Objectives
Before swinging the first hammer, define the intent of your renovation. Are you modernizing décor to echo a new brand image? Adding seating capacity? Optimizing kitchen workflow or swapping out antiquated equipment? Defining your objectives will direct the design and build process and guarantee each dollar you invest is a return on value.
Budget Appropriately
Restaurant remodeling can really differ in price based on the extent of the work and how much the work is customized. Having a realistic budget with a contingency allowance for unforeseen costs is essential. Engaging reputable commercial renovations contracting companies in my area can help you obtain realistic bids and avoid surprises later.
Choose the Right Contractor
The most important decision in a renovation, aside from determining what needs to happen, is hiring the correct contractor. You want a team that has a working knowledge of local building codes, zoning bylaws, and health bylaws. If you’re based in Alberta, selecting an Edmonton commercial general contractor with experience in restaurant construction can ease the process and ensure provincial compliance. Look for contractors with definitive quotes, strict timelines, and a record of similar projects.
Prioritize Functionality and Flow
A gorgeous dining area doesn’t matter if the kitchen design prevents your service. Restaurant design is not all about looks. From ventilation and station design to restroom location and entry traffic flow, each square foot must be designed functionally. A contractor with experience can collaborate with designers to make the remodel improve customers’ experiences and employees’ productivity.
Permits and Inspections
All Canadian commercial renovations must have the proper permits and inspections. This stage can be challenging, especially in cities like Edmonton, where commercial codes are strict. A seasoned Edmonton commercial general contractor will navigate the permitting stage and communicate with city inspectors to avoid delays and fines.
Minimizing Downtime equals money in the restaurant business. A quality contractor will help you develop a renovation schedule that disrupts your business as little as possible. Renovations staged in phases or temporary closures are occasionally unavoidable, but smart planning and honest communication with your contractor can minimize downtime to as short as possible.
Final Thoughts
A restaurant renovation is a major expenditure, but when done correctly, it can breathe new life into your enterprise. Having local contracting companies in my region that specialize in commercial renovations ensures your project will be completed on time, to budget, and to code. From renovating your kitchen to remodeling your dining area, the right team makes all the difference.
