A Fresh Start: Bar Remodel Ideas that can Boost Profits and Attract New Customers

When you started up your bar, you probably had a very specific vision in mind. Maybe you wanted your patrons to take a step back in time with a classic, speakeasy feel. Maybe you wanted to create a place where “everybody knows your name” (good luck getting that out of your head!). Or, maybe you wanted to create something unique and trendy in your community.

Whatever the case, times change and trends change. If you’ve been in business for a while and you’re starting to notice that your bar is starting to feel dated, it could be time to consider remodeling.

Don’t let that word scare you. Remodeling efforts could include a complete overhaul of your bar or a few minor changes that could help to reestablish your brand and let people know who you are.

Let’s take a look at a few ways you can give your bar a fresh start, attract new customers, and stand out from your competitors with some clever remodeling ideas. 

Managing Maintenance Issues

Before you get started with any creative remodeling ideas, it’s smart to look at any maintenance issues you may have been ignoring or putting off for too long. Starting your remodeling process with a firm foundation will make everything easier. For example, if you’ve been hearing any strange noises, now is the time to address them. Some of the most common that could be a sign of a problem include:

• Banging pipes
• Electrical humming or buzzing
• Hissing noises
• Running water
• Scratching in the walls

These noises could indicate everything from a gas leak to a rodent in the walls. Obviously, as a place of business, you want to take things like this seriously.

Additionally, take a look around at any cosmetic repairs that need to be done, or things that should be fixed for the sake of your customers’ safety. That might include replacing an old bar stool or repairing that chip in the floor that could be a tripping hazard. When you start by fixing the things that could otherwise cause problems, the rest of the remodeling process can actually be more fun.

Making Small Changes

When some people hear the word “remodel,” they automatically think of tearing a space down and starting from the ground up. But, you don’t necessarily have to do that. Small changes can actually make big differences. For example, choosing a different color scheme for your bar is a small way to make people feel as though you’ve completely rebranded.

To choose the right color scheme, learn more about color psychology and how different shades can impact people’s moods. For example, shades of blue often make people feel calm and serene, while red can increase intensity. You have to decide the kind of atmosphere you want your restaurant to have, and build a color scheme from that idea. While using that palette in the  bar itself by repainting is a great  start, you should strive for consistency by using that scheme everywhere, including:

• Your marketing materials
• Your website
• Your staff uniforms
• Social media

Consistency is the key to building a brand and getting people to recognize you so you stand out from your competitors. 

Looking for more small changes that can add up? Consider switching out the tables or the seating, or adding new decor and accessories to the bar. Things that don’t require actual “construction” can still have an impact, especially if you’re on a tight budget or don’t want the bar to be closed for an extended period of time.

Committing to a Complete Overhaul

If you know your bar is outdated or you just want to give it a facelift, a full remodel may be necessary. That could include things like changing out the lighting fixtures to installing new flooring. You might even want to install a new bar to accommodate your growing customer base.

It’s also a good idea to bring your bar into the 21st century if it’s stuck in the past. Even “theme” bars that are supposed to have a vintage feel will benefit from the use of some technology. It will help to ensure things run smoothly and it will keep your customers happy.

A complete bar overhaul is a perfect time to rebrand your business. You can change your color scheme, as suggested above. But, you might also consider creating a new logo, something that people will instantly identify with you. Giving yourself a fresh start could also mean creating a completely new menu, both for your beers and your food options.  Many bars across the country are focusing heavily on providing quality food. The days of hot wings and bar nuts are gone, and customers expect more.

Remodeling your bar can be as much or as little of a task as you want it to be. In the end, it’s about connecting with your patrons’ needs and wants. Keep these ideas in mind to hit the “reset” button on your business, and give it the upgrade it deserves.

Special thanks to Jori Hamilton for this Great Beer Now guest post!

Bio: Jori Hamilton is an experienced writer residing in the Northwestern U.S. She covers a wide range of topics but takes a particular interest in covering topics related to business productivity, travel, and entrepreneurship. If she’s not writing, she enjoys traveling and trying new beers. As of now, her favorite beer is Melvin Brewing’s 2×4 DIPA. To learn more about Jori, you can follow her on Twitter.