Renovating a restaurant or café in Perth? It’s a big project, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you’re freshening up the space or doing a full makeover, smart planning makes all the difference.
Perth’s food scene is competitive, and customers expect good food and a great atmosphere too.
A well-thought-out renovation can attract new customers, improve efficiency, and boost profits, but it’s easy to run into mistakes that cost time and money.
That’s where these seven must-know tips come in. From setting a clear budget to choosing the right time to renovate, we’re covering the essentials without the fluff.
By the end, you’ll know exactly where to focus your efforts so your renovation works for both your business and your customers. Let’s get started.
1. Set Clear Goals and Priorities
Before getting into renovations, know exactly what you want to achieve. Going in without a plan can lead to wasted time, unexpected costs, and changes that don’t actually improve your restaurant or café.
Start by figuring out why you’re renovating. Is it to update the look, improve efficiency, cut energy costs, or meet new health and safety requirements? If it’s about aesthetics, think about what needs the biggest refresh—furniture, lighting, layout, or the overall vibe. If it’s more about function, look at kitchen workflow, seating capacity, or storage space.
Some changes are purely cosmetic, like repainting walls or upgrading decor. Others are structural, like knocking down walls or reworking the kitchen layout. Structural changes take more time and money but can make a huge impact, especially if your current setup slows down service.
A renovation should also make financial sense. If you’re spending thousands, it should pay off—whether through higher customer retention, increased table turnover, or lower maintenance costs. A refreshed, well-designed space can boost sales, but it needs to be done right.
If you’re unsure where to focus, talk to staff and regular customers. They’ll tell you what’s working and what isn’t. Maybe the dining area feels cramped, or the kitchen gets bottlenecked during busy hours.
Small details like better lighting, improved seating arrangements, or adding a pickup window for takeaway orders can make a noticeable difference.
The goal is simple: every change should serve a purpose, whether it’s making the space more inviting, improving efficiency, or cutting long-term costs.
2. Budget Smartly Without Compromising Quality
Renovating a restaurant or café in Perth can get expensive fast. Costs typically range from $150 to $300 per square meter, depending on the level of work needed. A small refresh like new paint and lighting will cost a lot less than a full kitchen overhaul or structural changes.
Being smart with your budget means knowing where to spend and where to save.
- Splurge on high-impact, long-lasting upgrades—commercial kitchen equipment, durable flooring, and high-quality seating. These take a beating daily and need to hold up over time.
- Save on trendy decor and unnecessary extras. Expensive light fixtures, designer wallpaper, or custom furniture can add up quickly. Focus on timeless design that won’t look outdated in a year.
- Get quotes from multiple contractors. Prices can vary significantly, so compare your options before committing.
There are also ways to cut costs without cutting corners:
- DIY what you can—small things like painting, simple installations, or refinishing furniture can save thousands.
- Look into government grants or tax deductions for small business improvements. Some programs in Perth offer financial support for energy-efficient upgrades or accessibility improvements.
- Buy second-hand or refurbished equipment. Many businesses sell commercial-grade stoves, refrigerators, and fixtures at a fraction of the price.
Planning ahead and spending wisely means getting the most out of every dollar while keeping your restaurant functional, stylish, and built to last.
3. Choose the Best Time to Renovate
Timing a renovation the right way can make a huge difference. Closing down during a busy season can mean big losses, while planning it during a slower period can minimize the impact.
For most restaurants and cafés in Perth, January and February tend to be quieter, especially after the holiday rush. If your business is in a tourist-heavy area, winter might be the best time since fewer visitors means fewer walk-ins.
Look at your sales data from the past few years and find the months when traffic naturally dips—that’s your best window.
If closing completely isn’t an option, there are ways to keep revenue coming in:
- Offer takeaway or delivery if your kitchen is still functional. Set up a temporary menu with popular, easy-to-prepare dishes.
- Run a pop-up stall at a local market or food event. This keeps your brand visible and can even attract new customers.
- Keep customers engaged on social media. Post renovation updates, share behind-the-scenes content, and build anticipation for the reopening.
4. Enhance Customer Experience with Modern Design Trends
A well-designed restaurant or café makes customers feel comfortable and keeps things running smoothly. Small design choices affect everything from how long people stay to how efficiently staff can work.
Perth’s dining trends have shifted towards open-plan layouts, natural elements, and tech-friendly experiences. More places are adding biophilic design—think indoor plants, natural lighting, and earthy textures—to create a relaxed atmosphere. Outdoor seating is in high demand, especially with Perth’s great weather, so having a well-designed alfresco area can increase foot traffic.
Layout matters. If staff struggle to move between tables or the kitchen setup slows down service, it affects the whole business. Wider aisles, clear paths to exits, and a smooth kitchen-to-table flow make a huge difference. Customers should also feel comfortable, whether they’re sitting alone with a laptop or dining in a large group.
Lighting and acoustics set the mood. Bright, harsh lights can make a space feel uninviting, while poor soundproofing makes it hard for customers to talk without shouting.
Warm lighting, soft background music, and well-placed sound panels help create a space where people actually want to stay.
A thoughtful design makes a restaurant or café feel welcoming, efficient, and worth coming back to.
5. Focus on Sustainability and Energy Efficiency
Sustainability is becoming a big deal in Perth’s restaurant scene. More people are choosing places that care about the environment, and a few smart upgrades can make a big difference in long-term savings and customer appeal.
Energy-efficient appliances help cut down electricity costs. Look for commercial refrigerators, ovens, and dishwashers with high energy ratings. They might cost more upfront but pay for themselves through lower utility bills. Water-saving fixtures like low-flow taps and dual-flush toilets also help reduce waste without affecting performance.
Sustainable materials make a space feel modern while being better for the planet. Bamboo furniture, recycled wood, and eco-friendly paints give a stylish, natural look without adding to environmental damage.
Perth cafés are also leaning toward solar panels, which can lower energy costs and make a business more self-sufficient. Some setups even qualify for government rebates and tax benefits, which helps offset installation costs.
Small changes add up. A well-thought-out renovation can make a restaurant greener, more cost-effective, and more appealing to environmentally conscious customers.
6. Work with Experienced Contractors and Suppliers in Perth
A restaurant renovation is a big investment, so who you hire matters. The right contractors and suppliers can save you time, money, and stress by ensuring everything is done properly the first time.
Hiring licensed local builders and interior designers is crucial. They understand Western Australia’s building codes, which means fewer compliance issues and a smoother approval process. They’re also familiar with Perth’s climate, so they can recommend materials that hold up against heat and humidity.
Finding the right team takes research.
- Check online reviews and testimonials. Look for consistent feedback on reliability, craftsmanship, and communication.
- Ask for past restaurant projects. Experience with hospitality renovations means they’ll know how to handle things like kitchen ventilation, seating flow, and accessibility.
- Get detailed quotes. A clear breakdown of costs prevents surprises later.
For Perth businesses, Quest Renovations is a trusted choice. With a strong track record in restaurant and café makeovers, we specialize in high-quality renovations tailored to hospitality spaces. Working with experienced professionals ensures your renovation is efficient, compliant, and built to last.
7. Announce and Market Your Grand Reopening
A renovation is a big investment, so getting people excited about your grand reopening is just as important as the remodel itself. A strong marketing plan brings in new customers, reminds regulars to come back, and creates a buzz around your refreshed space.
Social media is your best friend here.
- Share before-and-after photos. Show off the upgrades, whether it’s a sleek new interior, an expanded outdoor area, or a revamped menu.
- Go behind the scenes. Posting renovation progress keeps customers engaged and builds anticipation.
- Use reels and stories. Quick videos of the new space, staff getting ready, or a countdown to opening day make a big impact.
A reopening event gives people a reason to visit.
- Offer a limited-time deal. A free drink with a meal, a discount for early bookings, or a special launch menu can draw in crowds.
- Invite local influencers or food bloggers. Their reviews and posts can help you reach a wider audience.
- Contact local press. Perth food and lifestyle publications often cover new restaurant openings. A short press release can get your business featured.
The goal is to make reopening an event people don’t want to miss. A well-planned launch ensures your fresh start gets the attention it deserves.
Key Takeaway
Renovating a restaurant or café in Perth comes with a lot of moving parts, but a solid plan makes all the difference.
Knowing where to invest, when to renovate, and how to create a better experience for customers can set your business up for long-term success.
A well-designed space isn’t just about looks—it improves workflow, keeps customers coming back, and helps your staff work more efficiently.
A budget that prioritizes durability and function over short-term trends saves money in the long run. Working with experienced contractors ensures everything is done right, from compliance to quality finishes.
Once the renovation is complete, a strong reopening strategy helps bring in customers and makes the most of the fresh start.
Every decision—big or small—adds up to a space that works better for both customers and staff. If you’re planning a renovation, getting expert advice can make the process smoother and more cost-effective. Contact Quest Renovations for tailored solutions that fit your budget and business goals.