Commercial Kitchen Design Tips & Tricks: The Ultimate Guide for Your Upcoming Project

The right kitchen layout can streamline your restaurant’s operations—in turn, improving efficiency and productivity among your staff. Whether you’re opening a new restaurant or renovating an existing one, it is worthwhile to invest time and resources into your commercial kitchen design. A well-planned kitchen can set your restaurant up for success.

That said, creating and executing a new commercial kitchen design is a significant undertaking. There are many decisions along the way—from stylistic and practical choices to financial and time considerations. Plus, the project requires adequate resources, such as the upfront investment and hiring of reputable contractors. Let’s walk through top considerations to help you make informed decisions throughout your project.

KEY FACTORS TO CONSIDER IN YOUR COMMERCIAL KITCHEN DESIGN

There are many potential benefits to an updated commercial kitchen design, if planned and executed in a thoughtful way. These are the key elements you should keep in mind throughout the process.

#1. WORKFLOW EFFICIENCY

Your commercial kitchen layout should allow for a smooth flow of food, from preparation to the plate. Consider the proximity of food storage, preparation, and cooking areas, ensuring that your staff can move easily between them without obstacles. Easily accessible stations can improve speed and reduce unnecessary movements.

#2. SAFETY

Safety is paramount in any commercial kitchen. A design that prioritizes clear pathways, non-slip flooring, proper ventilation, and strategically placed fire extinguishers minimizes the risk of injury to your team. Think about ways to lessen the chance of accidents in high-traffic areas, such as the line or prep stations. If you’re renovating an existing kitchen, take some time to reflect on where accidents happen most often, and brainstorm design changes accordingly.

#3. SANITATION

In any food business, maintaining strict sanitation standards is crucial. Design your kitchen with hygiene in mind by using easy-to-clean materials for countertops and flooring, designating ample space for washing stations, and having a clear separation between raw and cooked food areas. Consider adding built-in sanitation stations, touchless sinks, and proper waste disposal systems to comply with or exceed health codes.

#4. STORAGE

Adequate storage can be easily overlooked, but it is an essential component of a well-functioning kitchen. You need designated areas for dry goods, refrigerated items, cleaning supplies, and kitchen equipment. Ensuring that storage is organized and easily accessible prevents clutter and reduces time spent searching for ingredients or tools during service.

#5. ERGONOMICS

A commercial kitchen can be physically demanding. Designing it with ergonomics in mind can reduce injuries, improve morale, and enhance the productivity of your staff. Position your counter heights and equipment for comfort, ease of use, and accessibility, especially frequently-used items. This can minimize walking, bending, stretching, or twisting.

#6. ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Sustainability is becoming increasingly important in restaurant operations—and it saves on utility bills in the long run. A commercial kitchen design project is the perfect time to consider your restaurant’s energy efficiency. When designing, consider incorporating energy-efficient appliances, LED lighting, and well-insulated refrigeration units.

TIPS AND TRICKS: COMMERCIAL KITCHEN DESIGN AND LAYOUT

After considering the potential impact of your commercial kitchen design, it’s time to start making project decisions that align with your goals. Here are some tips and tricks to improve efficiency and set your space apart.

OPEN CONCEPT

Open commercial kitchen designs are increasingly popular, allowing guests to see the behind-the-scenes during their dining experience. This design adds an element of excitement and builds trust with customers by showcasing your team's culinary skills. You’ll have to balance layout efficiency with the need for a good view from the dining area.

INGREDIENTS DISPLAY

Creating areas that spotlight fresh ingredients, such as a visible pantry or display coolers for fresh produce, adds visual appeal and reinforces the quality of your menu. It’s also a great way to highlight any fresh, local, or seasonal ingredients you’re using.

TASTING COUNTERS

If your concept allows for it, consider adding tasting counters where guests can interact with the chefs and even sample dishes before they are plated. This can be an engaging feature that elevates the guest dining experience.

INNOVATIVE LIGHTING

Good lighting in a commercial kitchen is essential for both functionality and ambiance. For key prep areas, invest in bright lighting ideal for detailed tasks. For the rest of your restaurant, consider how ambient lighting can enhance the atmosphere. Artistic light fixtures can add a unique stylistic element to your commercial kitchen design. You can also opt for energy-efficient lighting systems that can adjust based on the time of day or activity.

ANTI-FATIGUE FLOORING

Comfort matters in a busy kitchen, and anti-fatigue flooring can reduce the strain on your team during long shifts. These cushioned floors come in a variety of styles and materials, ensuring safety without sacrificing design aesthetics.

HOW TO DETERMINE A BUDGET FOR YOUR COMMERCIAL KITCHEN DESIGN

The cost of a commercial kitchen design project can vary greatly depending on the size of your space, along with the complexity and customization needed. On average, you can expect to spend between $40,000 to $200,000 on a new commercial kitchen design, though high-end or large-scale projects can exceed this. Consider these financial factors when making a budget:

• Kitchen Size: The larger the space, the more equipment and materials you’ll need, driving up costs.
• Equipment Type: Commercial-grade appliances are necessary for efficiency and quality, but they can be expensive. Compare your options and consider energy-efficient models that offer long-term savings.
• Existing Kitchen: Remodeling your existing space is usually less expensive than building a commercial kitchen from scratch, but surprises like electrical or plumbing upgrades can still increase the cost.
• Custom Features: If you opt for unique features such as custom cabinetry, high-end countertops, or specialty lighting, these will add to your overall budget.

TYPICAL TIMELINE FOR A COMMERCIAL KITCHEN DESIGN PROJECT

Designing and building a commercial kitchen takes time—but the amount of time will vary based on the scope of work. In general, a typical project might follow this timeline:

• Planning and Design (1-3 months): During this phase, you’ll work with designers and contractors to develop a plan for the commercial kitchen layout, select materials and equipment, and get quotes.
• Permitting and Approvals (1-2 months): You’ll need to secure any necessary permits and approvals from local health and building departments, which can take several weeks or more depending on your jurisdiction.
• Construction and Installation (2-6 months): Depending on the complexity of your project, the actual construction phase can range from a couple of months for minor updates to half a year for a full-scale commercial kitchen design.
• Final Inspections and Testing (1-2 weeks): After construction is complete, inspections and final checks ensure that everything is up to code and fully functional.

Build some flexibility into your timeline, as unexpected delays—such as supply chain disruptions or permit issues—are sure to arise during this process.

STOCK YOUR YOUR COMMERCIAL KITCHEN WITH HIGH-QUALITY PRODUCTS

Once your commercial kitchen design is complete, it’s time to fill the space with premium ingredients. Paris Gourmet offers a wide selection of specialty products that will elevate your menu and delight your guests. Whether you’re opening a new restaurant or revamping an existing one, browse our offerings and contact the Paris Gourmet team to place your order.