Best Tips for Lighting a Restaurant
A customer's general impression of a restaurant is decided well before their first course arrives.
A customer's general impression of a restaurant is decided well before their first course arrives. The space's ambiance plays a determining role in whether they will even consider entering.
Restaurant owners must ensure that the establishment is adequately lit and that the lighting creates the appropriate atmosphere, which can be tricky. Hiring a professional electrician best ensures aesthetics and safety. Let's discuss a few tips to ensure optimal lighting.
Utilize natural light
Lights don't have to be constantly on to ensure the space is amply illuminated. Restaurants that operate during the day can take advantage of all the sunlight they can get. Arrange the seating to maximize natural light, but be mindful of glaring sunlight and install window treatments if necessary.
Layer lighting
Lighting fixtures are either ambient, task, or accent lights. Learn where to use which type. Ambient lighting shouldn't be too bright, or customers might feel uncomfortable. Bright task lights above the bars and the reception area, where employees need to see what they are doing, are essential. Accent lights can enhance the space's visual appeal when used correctly. A professional electrician is certified to install all these lighting fixtures safely and correctly.
Placement matters
The direction the light is coming from drastically affects how objects, including faces, cast shadows. Therefore, restaurant owners must consider the appropriate placement for their lighting fixtures depending on their goals. For example, restaurants offering romantic dinners might not want to hang overhead fixtures that might have an unflattering effect on a customer's appearance.
Mind the mood
Indoor lighting does much more than illuminate a space. It has the potential to manipulate the mood of those inside it. For example, high-traffic restaurants can speed up dining time with the help of bright lighting, while romantic restaurants help customers relax with dim, warm lights.
Consider the décor
Lighting can affect the look of the existing décor, but the same is true the other way around. Therefore, restaurant owners must adjust their lighting choices to the interior's features. For example, a dark-paneled interior will need more light than one with light-colored walls and surfaces that already brighten up the space with their reflective quality.
Consider the time of day
Restaurants that operate from breakfast to late-night nosh will need to adjust their lighting depending on the time of day. Mornings require lighting that imitates sunlight, making the space inviting to early guests. Later times might call for dimmer lights with more accents for a relaxing atmosphere. Hiring a professional will ensure adjustable brightness on any day or evening.
Create the perfect lighting
Restaurant lighting needs to strike a balance between functionality and aesthetics. Knowing how people use the space will help restaurant owners create the right arrangement. Please ensure there are enough task lights where people need them but ensure customers' eyes aren't strained by bright light so they can enjoy their meals.
ACT Electric performs quality, licensed, bonded work at affordable prices for residential and commercial services. From troubleshooting to whole-house electrical renovations, our primary concern is the comfort and safety of our customers. Give us a call at (480)986-1722 today!
