For restaurants, like hotels, the exterior is equally as important as the interior. The exterior is the first impression potential customers have of an establishment; it is your chance to convert them from curious passersby to paying customers.
A restaurant's exterior will tell them about the type of cuisine, the ambiance, and more––even the materials you choose for the siding and roofing help to create this image. In fact, the roof can have a bigger impact on the overall design than you realize.
Keep reading for some restaurant building design ideas perfect for different types of roofing, with a focus on slate, Spanish barrel tiles, and cedar shakes.
Design Ideas for Slate Roofing
Slate is a very versatile premium roofing option. It pairs well with classic and European architectural styles, heritage buildings, and more.
On the one hand, it is an elegant and sophisticated material, which makes it the perfect option for high-end dining establishments that want that timeless elegance. It signals to potential diners that they are in for a luxurious experience. On the other hand, it can also pair well with more rustic styles, like farmhouse or old-world-themed restaurants.
Some restaurant design ideas for the exterior that work well with slate include:
1. Use Natural Stone or Brick Walls
When slate is paired with stone or brick walls, it creates a timeless appearance that can be both rustic and sophisticated. It is one of the simpler restaurant building design ideas that can significantly impact the overall look and feel of the exterior.
2. Wood Accents
Wood beams or timber framing are restaurant design ideas that can soften the look of slate and create a more rustic appearance that is warm and welcoming. This look can be ideal for many aesthetics: farmhouse, mountain lodge, tavern, etc.
3. Add a Chimney
A chimney is an excellent addition to restaurants in cooler climates and can act as a focal point inside and out. The chimney coming out of the slate roofing will create a striking image and enhance the exterior, to make it seem more intimate.
4. Large Windows and Glass Panels
Modern restaurant design is all about clean lines, minimalism, and modern materials. This makes additions like large windows and glass panels great additions to modern restaurant exterior design ideas. Large windows allow light to fill the interior space while also providing an airy, contemporary design.
5. Metal Accents
You can pair two metal accents with a slate roof: wrought iron and other metals like steel. Wrought iron can create a more old-world European look, while steel offers a more modern aesthetic. Accents can be railings, window grilles, outdoor light fixtures, or even as part of the signage.
Spanish Barrel Tile Design Ideas
Spanish tiles offer an old-world charm you'd find across the Mediterranean or Latin American countries. It is an excellent roof choice for those restaurants that plan to serve Spanish, Mediterranean, or Latin cuisine and want to create an authentic atmosphere.
Some restaurant exterior design ideas that pair well with Spanish barrel tiles include:
6. Stuccoed or Plastered Walls
For a Mediterranean look, stuccoed or plastered walls are restaurant design ideas to consider. This type of exterior wall finish in white, cream, or another soft, earthy tone will add a timeless feel to your exterior. Smooth stucco and plaster are
common, though textured is also an option. No matter what, the space will have a warm, inviting feel.
7. Arches
Arches have been a common component of the Mediterranean aesthetic since ancient times. Incorporating arches throughout the design is one of the best restaurant design ideas that will add to the authentic feel. An arched entryway, arched covered patio spaces, and arched windows are some ways to add them to the design.
8. Wood Beams and Doors
Wood beams under the roof eaves and wooden doors also compliment barrel tiles roofs, especially when stained dark. It adds to the natural, earthy elements and makes for a more rustic feel.
9. Add a Tower
If you're planning new construction, consider adding a tower to the design. While it may not be functional, the tower can add to the atmosphere and make it feel like restaurant goers have stepped into a little piece of Europe.
10. Water Feature
Another of the exterior restaurant design ideas when you have Spanish barrel tiles roofing is to add a water feature out in the front. A water feature will create a tranquil ambiance and pair perfectly with any theme you have, whether it is a tapas-inspired restaurant, Italian, or something from Latin America.
Exterior Design Ideas for Cedar Shakes
Cedar shake roofing is a great option for restaurants looking to create a rustic appearance. It is a great option for farm-to-table, lodge-style, coastal, and country-inspired restaurants that want a cozy, relaxed feel.
Some restaurant building design ideas that work well with cedar shake roofing include:
11. Covered Porches
Cedar shakes work well with a homey aesthetic, and they lend themselves perfectly to restaurant exterior design ideas like wide overhangs and covered porches that double as outdoor dining spaces. These add a rustic charm and can be made cozy with the right tables and seating.
12. Exposed Wood Beams
Adding exposed beams under the overhangs or covered porches adds to the design and restaurant ideas that work well together.
13. Stone Walkways
Stone walkways are one of the best restaurant design ideas that can work with a variety of different restaurant types. Whether going for a country feel or a lodge-style restaurant, a stone walkway can guide guests to the entrance, and the natural elements will blend well with the roof.
14. Lush Landscaping
Adding lots of greenery and climbing plants can create a natural, whimsical feel. There can be plants climbing up exterior walls or trellises, beautiful flowers surrounding the perimeter, and trees that add shade are just some ideas that tie in nature and help soften natural wood tones.
15. Add Mixed Materials
If you want cedar shakes and want to incorporate modern restaurant exterior design ideas, consider adding mixed material elements. Large glass doors and windows, metal accents, and railing are two ways to make it feel more modern.
Making the Perfect Restaurant Exterior with Brava
The right roof can make all the difference when creating restaurant design ideas for the exterior. Slate, Spanish barrel tiles, and cedar shakes are all extremely versatile, premium options that work with various aesthetics and styles. Still, the materials have some drawbacks: the cost, the weight, and the maintenance requirements. Fortunately, Brava Roofing Tile makes it possible to get those materials without the drawbacks.
Brava is a company that specializes in synthetic roofing. Brava roof tiles are made from 100% recycled plastics that have been compressed into dense tiles, and molded into realistic-looking slate, barrel, and cedar shake tiles. They are extremely lightweight, virtually maintenance-free, and highly durable, boasting:
A Class A Fire Rating
Class 4 Impact Rating
Wind Resistance from 188 mph to 211 mph, depending on the installation method
UV Resistant
Free-Thaw Resistant
Resistant to mold, mildew, and algae growth
Brava products also come in a variety of colors, including cool roof colors and the option for custom color matching to match the tiles perfectly to your color scheme. With Brava, you can get aesthetics and protection that can last 50 years or more.
Contact Brava today to learn more about our roofing and request samples to start planning your restaurant's new roof.
