Cafe interior design ideas that will brighten any space

Whether you are a café or coffee shop owner, you will already know that the right interior design can make or break the success of a business. In our latest blog, we take a look at some brilliant ideas to brighten up a café space, from quirky coffee shops in busy city’s to traditional country tea rooms, these tips will transform every café interior into a bustling, inviting space.

Cafe de Nata

1. Good lighting

Despite the British weather being famous for its unpredictability, on a gloomy, dark day, your cafe should be a space of warmth and light, a refuge from the drizzle and grey skies. Good lighting isn't just an option; it's a necessity. If you benefit from large windows, skylights or even a conservatory, embrace the brilliance of the natural light and allow the sun to light up your interior with cleverly placed seating.

Of course, there are plenty of overcast days so you will also need to invest in cosy, warm lighting. Pendant lights and wall sconces with dimmer switches are an excellent solution as they allow the ambiance and lighting levels to be easily adjusted. There are many designs available, from industrial styles through to vintage, eclectic lighting, so it is always possible to find options which add an interesting element to your space.

2. Utilise the light with mirrors

Many cafes struggle with small spaces, and if your café is a tad snug, mirrors could be a great design idea. They not only create the illusion of space but also amplify your carefully curated lighting, and there are many potential options to choose from. For example, instead of a single, large mirror, a collage of mirrors can be used to add visual interest whilst also multiplying the reflective effect. Alternatively, if your café lacks natural light, strategically placing mirrors opposite windows will help to bounce the light around the room.

3. Mix your materials

From traditional materials such as wood, rustic iron, and classic textiles through to sleek metal finishes, glass tabletops and modern plastic seating, mixing your materials will create an interesting finish. A great tip is to incorporate traditional locally produced items, and with everything from local pottery and artwork through to blankets and cushions available, it is a great way to attract local residents and visitors alike. 

Choosing a blend of materials is your chance to embrace the unique aspects of your café, so think about what makes your business stand out from the competition. Do you specialise in offering a variety of teas? If so, a display of teapots could be a great way to add an interesting element. Perhaps your café is located near a university or library, which could appeal to passing customers who are looking for soft sofas and comfortable chairs to curl up with a new book. 

4. Pick your colour palette wisely

The colours you incorporate into your café will create an instant first impression, both internally and externally, so it is important to choose your colour palette wisely. Think about the space you are trying to create, if you want a cosy café that invites customers inside, choose warm, earthy tones such as deep greens and rich browns. Perhaps your location is the inspiration, with cafes by the coast often drawing inspiration from calming blue sea tones and sand-coloured beiges. 

A great tip is to incorporate the colours of your brand subtly into the interior as this will reinforce your brand identity, whilst also bringing the overall interior design together. Think about unusual ways to add these colours, such as within the upholstery, tableware, or as interesting pieces of artwork.

Boxx Design – Designing exceptional café interiors

The right lighting, mirrors that reflect warmth and hospitality, a mix of materials that celebrate your individuality, and a well-thought-out colour palette can transform your cafe into an inviting haven. So, whether you're nestled in a quiet village or a bustling street, let your cafe's design tell the story of your brand.

Here at Boxx Design, our interior designers know that when it comes to café interior design, the devil is in the details, and we encourage our clients to let their creativity flow. We take the time to really get to know what makes your business unique, so that we can create brilliant design ideas that attract your target customers by making your café stand out. To find out more about how our team can create a vibrant café interior for your business, please contact us today.