Introducing the design firm responsible for some of the UAE’s most photogenic F&B and hospitality concepts
Interact Group sheds light on the psychology of first class restaurant design
Established in 2015, with interior design embedded in their DNA, Interact Group has established itself as one of the UAE’s leading Interior Design and Fit-out companies, specialising in the F&B sector.
Their passion? Combining stunning design aesthetic and functionality, but most importantly, and often forgotten, the psychology of restaurant design.
“The state of our environment is linked to the well being of each individual and at Interact Group we believe in designing spaces that evoke an emotional response without compromising on functionality and quality,” explains Shane Curran, CEO and Founder of Interact Group.
He notes, “Since human beings are emotional creatures, your customer’s emotional response to external stimuli will have a major impact on their daily decisions. This includes choices involving which mall they will go to, which boutique they will shop at, and which places they will probably dine in.”
With this in mind Interact Group’s team of design specialists consider four key elements when it comes to the psychology of interior design that aim to cultivate customer loyalty, and ultimately maintain business success.
It all starts with colour. Colours set the stage and will be the first emotional trigger customers will come in contact with as they enter a restaurant. They grab a customers attention and stimulate their senses. Warm hues in particular are proven to increase a person’s appetite whilst neutral colours help diners feel calm and relaxed according to Curran.
Next, furnishings play a huge role in determining how customers will feel toward a restaurant. What matters most is that they match the interior in terms of colour and style and that the furniture is comfortable for the guests, creating a satisfying experience. Curran points out, customers in Dubai are more aware of the quality of the furnishing and fine details more than any other city in the world. Therefore it is crucial to ensure quality materials and furnishings are used to complement the brand, adding, if customers appreciate the restaurant theme, and you provide the type of furnishings which promote relaxation, they will linger.
Thirdly, he states, lighting is also a crucial part of a restaurant’s interior design, helping to create an atmosphere for every table. Interact Group believe bad lighting will hamper the effectiveness of other design elements no matter how expensive the investment has been. Restaurant ambiance can affect perceptions of reliability and responsiveness, how much customers eat and spend, and how long they will stay at a restaurant.
Lastly, the bathroom is among the key aspects of a successful restaurant that is often overlooked. Customers will be unlikely to have a positive emotional relationship with a dining establishment when it does not cover their basic needs in terms of sanitation and personal hygiene. Curran advises, to make sure that your restaurant’s bathroom complements its decoration. It should give visitors privacy and all the key elements to cover their needs resulting in trust and loyalty.
Whether redesigning, renovating or looking for restaurant interior design ideas and inspiration, Interact Group is the ideal partner to help you accomplish your vision and enable you to tap into the mind of your consumer or client.