Small Space, Big Impact When Designing
Pubs in Tight Urban Locations
Urban spaces can be tough to navigate. This is especially true in busy cities with limited space. But some small pubs are doing very well and making big profits. Smart choices in design are what make them work. Many of these pubs know how to use their space well. They make a welcoming space that draws people in and makes them want to come back.
Core Design Principles
Make the most of vertical space
Vertical space can create a more open and dynamic feel. You can make the space feel larger and more engaging by:
- Hanging lights from the ceiling
- Using wall-mounted displays
- Adding shelves
Wall-mounted storage saves floor space by holding drinks, glasses, and more. This approach creates space for customers and builds a nice-looking atmosphere.
Multi-Functional Elements
In a small pub, the furniture has to be useful in more than one way. Things that are too big or too heavy won’t work. Instead, a bar design that runs along one wall can make the most of the area, especially in small rooms. Modular and convertible seating matter for small pubs. They allow you to adjust the layout for different events or guest counts. Another great idea is banquettes with secret storage. These things not only give you a place to sit, but they also help you keep your space neat.
Case Study Spotlight: Proven Success Models
Morrison’s Irish Pub, Marseille – The Narrow Space Solution
Morrison’s Irish Pub, located in a long, narrow space in Marseille, France, had to get creative to make the most of its 1,200 square feet. To solve the space challenge, they used a handcrafted linear bar along one wall. This design saved floor space and added a stylish touch. Lighting in a smart way, keeping the pub bright and welcoming. Morrison’s has three zones: a standing area at the front, a dining area in the middle, and a quiet seating area at the back. This zoning strategy let the pub serve different customers and use space effectively.
Nine Fine Irishmen, Las Vegas – High-Impact Hotel Integration
Nine Fine Irishmen is a pub located inside a Las Vegas hotel. The pub had to make a big impression, even though it was small. They focused on making the space feel grand by using height. Tall ceilings and bold features made the pub feel spacious, even in a small area. They used real Irish materials shipped from Ireland. This added charm and authenticity. The staff was well-trained. The food was carefully chosen. This made the experience better for customers.
Durty Nelly’s Halifax – The Smart Evolution Strategy
In Halifax, Canada, Durty Nelly’s is a well-known bar. It was hard for them to update their space without taking away from its old-fashioned charm. They didn’t make big changes all at once; instead, they fixed up the pub in stages, so it could stay open while the work was being done. They made the bar longer to make it hold more people, but they were careful not to damage the original structure. They also added some modern touches that went well with the traditional parts of the pub.
Important Tips for Implementation
Space-Saving Priorities
Small pubs need to make the most of their space. An L-shaped or galley-style bar is one of the best ways to save room. These bar designs allow you to accommodate more people while taking up less space. Seating should also be efficient. Banquette seating saves floor space by fitting along walls. Community tables are perfect for seating larger groups. For storage, you could use places under the bars, shelves that hang from the ceiling, or storage that is built into the wall. These choices keep things neat and in order in the space. New tech, like small point-of-sale (POS) systems and digital menus, helps things run smoothly.
Smart ways to use your money
Designing a small pub doesn’t have to be expensive. One way to save money is by implementing renovations in phases. Like Durty Nelly’s, you can update your space over time rather than all at once. This approach reduces costs and allows you to keep the pub open during the process. Using real materials, like wood or stone, can make a big difference without costing much. Working with professional project managers helps you stay on schedule and within budget. This makes the design process more efficient.
Transform your Urban Space into a Profitable Pub
If you’re ready to transform your urban space into a profitable and memorable pub, The Irish Pub Company is here to help. We are the original creators of the authentic Irish Pub Concept. We create, make, and set up hospitality concepts globally. Our team has years of experience. We make sure your pub looks great and gives your customers an amazing experience.