In the restaurant world, first impressions aren’t just important—they’re everything. The design of your establishment can significantly influence customer behavior, satisfaction, and ultimately, your profitability. At the Irish Pub Company, we’ve seen firsthand how thoughtful design choices can transform a dining experience and boost the bottom line.pushoperations.com

When a customer walks into your restaurant, the ambiance sets the tone for their entire experience. Studies have shown that a well-designed interior can increase customer spending by up to 15% in Canada, highlighting the direct correlation between design and revenue . dexignmatter.com

Several key design components can influence customer behavior:

• Layout and Flow: A well-thought-out floor plan ensures smooth movement for both staff and patrons, reducing wait times and enhancing the dining experience.
• Lighting: The right lighting can create a warm and welcoming environment, encouraging customers to linger longer and potentially order more.
• Acoustics: Managing noise levels ensures conversations are comfortable, contributing to overall satisfaction.
• Seating Arrangements: Offering a mix of seating options—like booths, communal tables, and bar seating—can cater to different customer preferences and maximise occupancy.

Investing in your restaurant’s design isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a strategic business decision. According to industry data, sales after a renovation can increase as much as 15% to 40% . clover.com

CASE STUDY:

Expanding the Punch Tarmey’s Brand at Cain’s Brewery, Liverpool

Having originally created the Punch Tarmey’s brand, our team was thrilled to bring it to life again—this time within the iconic and complex site of Cain’s Brewery in Liverpool. Working in collaboration with the Mikhail Hotel and Leisure Group, this project gave us the opportunity to expand the brand in a bold and atmospheric venue while weaving in the deep-rooted heritage of the Cain’s name and the character of the listed building itself.

The building presented both creative challenges and incredible potential. With striking original features—including a 40ft-deep well and two expansive tunnels that were transformed into live music venues—the space required careful, creative planning and design execution. As Andrew Mikhail said, “It’s an astonishing building,” and our job was to match that energy with an equally compelling design.

Our team at the Irish Pub Company and McNally Design led the full refurbishment process: from concept design, branding, and space planning to project management, manufacturing, and on-site fit-out. The result is a dynamic destination venue that respects and reinterprets the history of both the Punch Tarmey’s brand and Cain’s Brewery.

Since opening, the venue has become a major attraction within the Baltic Triangle, significantly increasing footfall for the wider Cain’s development. Seating capacity was increased by over 35% compared to the previous use of the space, and the addition of flexible performance areas and multi-room experiences has helped drive higher average dwell time and customer spend—particularly on event nights and weekends. see full project 

At the Irish Pub Company, we understand that undertaking a refurbishment can be daunting. That’s why we offer a comprehensive service that takes the stress out of the process. From initial concept development to final execution, we handle every aspect of the project, ensuring that your vision comes to life seamlessly.

Our team collaborates closely with you to create a design that reflects your brand identity and appeals to your target audience. With decades of experience in the industry, we know what works and how to implement it effectively.

In the competitive restaurant industry, design plays a crucial role in attracting and retaining customers. A well-executed refurbishment can lead to increased revenue, improved customer satisfaction, and a stronger brand presence. At the Irish Pub Company, we’re committed to helping you achieve these goals by delivering design solutions that make a tangible difference to your bottom line.