When designing a bar or restaurant, one of the biggest challenges many will face is getting the balance between pretty and practical right. On the one hand, you want your bar or restaurant to look as good as it possibly can, but on the other, you need to think practically and ensure that the materials you use will be durable and easy to clean and maintain.

Getting the balance right between a bar or restaurant that is aesthetically pleasing whilst being as practical as possible can be difficult, but it is achievable. The key here really is balance – opt for furnishings and décor that is aesthetically pleasing, but then make sure you investigate further to ensure that the desired look can be easily maintained.

When choosing décor, fixtures and furnishings for your bar or restaurant, one of the vital things to consider is how easy it will be to clean certain items and still maintain the quality of the original product.

If you’re designing a bar, be prepared for drink spillages and the effect these will have on soft furnishings. The same applies to a restaurant – some sauces can stain easily, so bear that in mind before splashing out on plush seating that could technically be ruined within just a few days of the bar or restaurant opening.

Often, wipe-clean surfaces are best – and this can extend to floors too with tiles and wood much easier to keep clean than carpet. Darker colours mean stains won’t be as obvious, but it is also worth noting that dark surfaces tend to show up dust and scratches much more than lighter ones.

Longevity is another thing to keep in consideration. How long are the materials used to create your bar or restaurant going to last? Will they be prone to scratches, or, as previously mentioned, stains? Are they long lasting or will they fade over time?

It also worth thinking about things like sunlight and whether it will affect any of the artwork or furnishings in your bar – often leathers and other materials can fade in direct sunlight.

You need to think about how long you want your restaurant looking as good as it possibly can for, and whether you’ll be prepared to replace certain materials or even consider a re-fit in the future.