Step into a café in 2024, and you’re likely to find more than just a place to grab a cup of coffee or cake.
With the ever-changing landscape of interior design, cafés have become not only destinations for caffeine fixes and remote working but also showcases of creativity and innovation. As we embrace the future, the trends shaping café interiors reflect our changing lifestyles, preferences, and values.
That’s why we’ve pulled together a list of aesthetic and functional suggestions that redefine the café experience, blending style, sustainability, and cultural influences into inviting spaces that inspire customers…
Sustainability
To protect the planet and your pocket, we recommend focusing on eco-friendly and sustainable design elements. From reclaimed wood furniture to recycled materials and energy-efficient lighting, there are many methods to achieve your sustainability goals.
‘the eatery.’ at Anglia Ruskin University Cambridge
Biophilic Design
A simple yet effective way of creating a calming and inviting atmosphere is through the integration of nature into interior spaces. Natural lighting, living walls and plants are all perfect additions to improve the ambience of a café.
‘The Magdalen Café’ at Oxford Science Park
Tech Integration
As the technology landscape continues to develop rapidly, café owners should be open to new ways of improving efficiency and enhancing the customer experience. Smart ordering systems, interactive displays, table trackers and wireless charging stations are all great ideas to stay ahead of the curve.
‘M&S Café’ for Marks and Spencer Leamington Spa
Vibrant Signs
Neon, LED and other bright forms of signage are functional and eye-catching methods to entice consumers and reflect your brand identity. They also provide an ‘Instagram-worthy’ opportunity for visitors to showcase your café on socials, helping you to promote your café with little effort from yourself!
‘The Central.’ for ARU Chelmsford
Flexible Seating Arrangements
Versatile seating options, including movable furniture, modular seating arrangements and private booths, enable cafés to adapt their space for different purposes and group sizes.
‘Campus Kitchen’ at Campus Reading
Minimalism
Cafés should focus on simplicity and functionality when looking to create a serene environment where customers can relax and enjoy their coffee and cake. Clean lines, neutral colour palettes and clutter-free spaces are proven methods of creating a soothing minimalist space.
‘The Central.’ for ARU Chelmsford
Artisanal Touches
Unique décor, handcrafted elements and artisanal finishes all add character and personality to the interior of a café. Customers welcome and appreciate the authenticity and attention to detail conveyed by the design choices.
‘The Seed Kitchen’ for Friends House
Multi-functional Spaces
Cafés no longer exist just to serve a fresh brew of tea or coffee. Instead, they are often community hubs where people gather to work, socialize and attend events. This means it’s essential to design flexible spaces that can accommodate a range of activities to meet the recent diverse needs of customers.
‘The eatery.’ for ARU Cambridge
Local and Cultural Influences
Whether through artwork, traditional craftsmanship or a unique culinary offer, drawing inspiration from local culture, history and heritage can set cafés apart and create a sense of place. Integrating elements that reflect the cafés surroundings can enrich the overall dining experience.
‘The Atrium Café’ for the National Trust
