With many planned investment projects on hold at present, garden centres can make small, cost effective design changes that could impact positively on footfall and profitability. Garden and farm centre design specialists, Catering Design Group (CDG), share some creative tips here on how to revamp on a tight budget.
Have a light bulb moment
Lighting has a huge impact on mood and ambience and it doesn’t need to cost the earth. If the budget is really tight you could simply refresh the shades while keeping your existing fixtures. Consider what you may have on hand, such as characterful hats or baskets that could become quirky and alternative shade options. Existing lampshades can also be re-covered using appropriate fabrics but ensure that they are fire retardant fabrics.
Manifest your vision.
Applying manifestation to doors, windows and screens is a low-cost option that can be used to bring your brand to life, provide information (eg menus and opening times) and enhance the look of the space. The possibilities are endless – they can be quirky, subtle, colourful and above all, eye-catching, so that your visitors understand your ethos and know exactly what you are about.
Turn the tables
It makes financial and sustainable sense to recycle, reuse and reimagine your existing furniture. Consider reupholstering existing seating with new fabric or refresh old wooden chairs by sanding and staining them or by giving them a new coat of paint. Existing table tops can be transformed by tiling them or by simply painting the legs to give a whole new feel.
It’s a wrap!
If your counter is tired and out-dated and your budget limited, there are many cost-effective options to create a ‘wow-factor’. Vinyl wrapping your existing counter fronts and merchandising displays is a really flexible way to create maximum impact and a fresh new look. You could also remove existing gantries and replace them with more contemporary heat lamps or feature lighting.
Catering Design Group (CDG) is one of UK’s leading restaurant and commercial kitchen design companies, offering a full design service to clients throughout the retail, leisure, hospitality and education sectors. http://www.cateringdesign.co.uk
If you would like to know more about how CDG can support your vision, contact Steve Hutchings, director of CDG on 07736 479342 or email steve.hutchings@cateringdesign.co.uk