10 Unexpected Interior Design Elements That Work In Restaurants

By Author: Allan Dias
Total Articles: 34
Comment this article

In a world where diners are increasingly seeking experiences along with their meals, interior design has become a powerful storytelling tool in the restaurant industry. While traditional design elements like ambient lighting, cosy furniture, and statement walls are still effective, some unexpected design choices are now stealing the spotlight—and surprisingly, they work brilliantly. Here are 10 unconventional interior elements that can elevate your restaurant’s atmosphere and customer engagement.

1. Mismatched Furniture
Gone are the days of uniform chairs and tables. A curated mix of vintage and modern pieces adds personality and tells a visual story. It gives diners a feeling of stepping into a carefully styled home rather than a commercial space.

2. Ceiling Statements
While most designs focus on the floor and walls, the ceiling is often overlooked. A painted ceiling, exposed beams, or suspended art installations can draw the eye upward and create a sense of drama and spaciousness.

3. Interactive Walls
Walls that invite customer interaction—like chalkboard menus, polaroid photo collages, ...
... or even live vertical herb gardens—encourage engagement and make dining memorable. These walls often become social media magnets.

4. Unusual Lighting Fixtures
Swapping traditional chandeliers or pendant lights for sculptures, inverted lanterns, or repurposed materials like colanders or wine bottles can create a signature look while offering warm, diffused lighting.

5. Unconventional Color Palettes
While earthy tones and neutrals are classic, bold color combinations like teal and tangerine or mustard and navy can spark emotion and appetite when done tastefully.

6. Textured Surfaces
Surfaces that play with texture—like terrazzo floors, 3D wall tiles, or fabric-covered walls—add depth and interest to a space. It also creates a more tactile, inviting atmosphere.

7. Open Kitchen Concepts
While not entirely new, having an open kitchen where diners can see the chefs at work continues to be an unexpected delight. It builds trust and enhances the dining experience through transparency and entertainment.

8. Art Installations
Instead of generic wall art, consider commissioning a local artist to create an installation unique to your restaurant. This can turn your venue into a cultural hub while enhancing brand identity.

9. Asymmetry in Layout
Intentionally avoiding symmetry in layout—such as offset seating arrangements or an off-center bar—creates a sense of spontaneity and visual intrigue. This strategy is often used by luxury restaurant interior designers Sydney to break the norm and craft truly bespoke environments.

10. Unexpected Greenery
Beyond potted plants, think hanging ferns from the ceiling, moss walls, or tree trunks integrated into the furniture design. This blend of nature and design brings serenity and freshness to urban settings.

Final Thoughts

Incorporating unexpected elements into your restaurant’s interior design not only sparks curiosity but also builds a stronger emotional connection with guests. These design choices create talking points, enhance customer experience, and boost repeat visits.

To get the most out of these creative ideas, it’s wise to work with professionals who understand the balance between function and flair. If you’re searching for restaurant interior designers Sydney or browsing for restaurant interior designers near me, make sure to choose a team that embraces innovation without compromising comfort.

We bring together all different aspects of design to create a space that represents you and where you’re headed. Our custom approach to every individual project is innovative and has an edge that's unique and sure to inspire