Skip to main content
All Posts By

OBJECTUU

OBJECTUU
In Blog

5 Main Reasons Houseplants Are Great For Your Home

Houseplants are a great way to add life to your home, and they come with a host of benefits. They look great, but they can also help purify the air, boost your mood, and increase humidity levels. If you’re looking for a low-maintenance way to spruce up your home, houseplants are the way to go. And with so many different varieties to choose from, there’s sure to be one perfect for your space. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and get your green thumb on!

1. Boost Your Mental Health

It’s no secret that spending time in nature can positively affect your mental health. According to studies, exposure to green space can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, while also promoting feelings of happiness and well-being. While it’s not always possible to head outside for a nature fix, you can bring the benefits of the outdoors inside your home with houseplants. They add:


•    A touch of greenery to your décor
•    Help purify the air
•    Reduce noise pollution
•    Boost your mood


2. Make Us Better Workers

Most people think of houseplants as merely aesthetic additions to their homes. According to studies, plants have been shown to boost productivity and concentration, and they can even help reduce noise levels in offices. In addition to the cognitive benefits, plants also improve air quality by removing harmful toxins from the air. Consequently, there are many good reasons to keep houseplants in your home or office. They look nice, but they can also help you work more efficiently and effectively.

3. They Can Purify the Air in Your Home

Many people don’t realize it, but the air inside our homes can be up to five times more polluted than the air outside. It is because houses are designed to be airtight, trapping pollutants like dust, pollen, and pet dander. These pollutants can cause various health problems, including allergies, asthmatic attacks, and even headaches. One way to help purify the air in your home is to add houseplants. According to studies, plants act as natural filters, removing pollutants from the air and releasing clean, oxygen-rich air. They improve the quality of the air in your home, but they also add a touch of nature and can boost your mood.


4. Helps Improve Creativeness

It is no secret that plants can brighten up any home. They add color and life to a space, but they can also help purify the air and improve your overall health. However, did you know that plants can also help to enhance your creativity? Numerous studies have shown that being around plants can help to increase creative creativity and problem-solving abilities. One theory is that plants help to stimulate divergent thinking, which is essential for generating new ideas. In addition, plants promote calmness and relaxation, both of which are important for creative thinking.

5. They Are Easy To Care For

Houseplants are a great way to add life to your home, and they are easy to care for! They help purify the air, but they can also boost your mood and create a sense of calm. There are many different kinds of houseplants to choose from, so you can find one that suits your lifestyle and personality. Low-maintenance plants like succulents and snake plants are perfect for busy people or those who forget to water their plants regularly. If you have pets, there are also many kinds of plants that are safe for them to be around. And if you have a black thumb, don’t worry–there are plenty of difficult-to-kill plants that even the most inexperienced gardener can handle. 

Let’s Get Started with Vases and Planters

Houseplants are a great way to improve the look and feel of your home. They can purify the air, boost your mood, and create a sense of calm. There are many different kinds of houseplants to choose from, so you can find one that suits your lifestyle and personality.

Within our Vases and Planters, we have a variety of beautiful houseplants that would make a great addition to any home. Shop our selection today and find the perfect plant for your space. Visit our website to shop our planters collection.

Contact us to learn more. 

OBJECTUU
In Blog

5 Reasons Philodendron Pink Princess Is My Favorite Rare Plant

Houseplants have a way of brightening up a home and adding to its charm and appeal. If you’re a sucker for pink, you need to get your hands on a Philodendron Pink Princess plant. It’s one of the rarest plants in the world, a great beginner rare plant and has been causing social media buzz since last year.

By the end of this post, you’ll have a better understanding of the rare Philodendron Pink Princess. I’ll also throw in some care tips for the plant, and who knows, it might be your new favorite rare plant.

1. It’s Pink and Very Unique!

There are over five hundred different philodendron species, but the Philodendron Pink Princess is the one plant that stands out. Its leaves are in the shape of a heart and have graceful variegation of pink. This is why it’s also called the blushing philodendron.  On top of that, its stem is a beautiful dark red, making the plant one of a kind.

2. It’s a Great Indoor Plant

Like most tropical plants, the Blushing Philodendron is a great indoor plant. It can adapt itself to different lighting and water conditions. Besides, it requires indirect light instead of direct sunshine, making it an ideal indoor plant. 

3. The Philodendron Pink Princess is Cheaper Than Most Rare Plants.

Did you know that there are plants that cost up to four figures? Shocking? But it’s because they’re very rare. Some of them are even endangered. As for the Philodendron princess plant, its price starts from $100 per cutting. Its charm lies in its uniqueness and ability to brighten up your home, making it a great investment.

4. It Grows Quickly

Under the right conditions, the Philodendron Pink Princess grows really fast. It can reach 4 feet, and its leaves can grow to  8″ long and 5″ wide. Besides, you can naturally breed the plant from the parent stock. 

5. It’s Easy To Care for a Blushing Philodendron.

One of the best things about the plant is that it’s easy to manage. You won’t need to break the bank to buy fertilizer every week or other plant maintenance products.

Here are some care tips to ensure your blushing philodendron plant grows strong and healthy.

  • Soil. Your philodendron pink princess thrives in well-draining, organic soil like many tropical plants. 
  • Water.  Although the plant is drought-resistant, don’t let it go for days without water. If you’re not sure whether to add more water to your plant, try the dip-finger method. Stick your index finger about an inch deep into the pot. If your finger comes out dry, it’s time to add more water.
  • Light. Your blushing Philodendron is delicate and can’t handle direct sunlight. So make sure you place it away from the sun’s rays.  Instead, pick a place where your plant can get indirect light for at least 6 hours in a day. 
  • Humidity. Philodendron princess plant grows well in humidity levels of 50% and higher. When the humidity levels are low, its leaves lose water, and the beautiful pink leaves turn brown. You can use a humidifier to increase the amount of moisture in the air, especially during hot seasons.
  • Fertilizer. Since the pink princess grows in soil full of nutrients, it doesn’t need a lot of fertilizer. However, give your plant some fertilizer at least once a month. Keep this up from spring to fall but skip the fertilizer in winter. The Philodendron princess plant is dormant during winter and doesn’t need fertilizer.

Where To Get a Philodendron Pink Princess Plant (PPP)

Last year, PPP got a lot of recognition on social media and Instagram in particular. The social media buzz created a demand for the plant, and many people rushed to buy the plant from online vendors. Unfortunately, online scammers used this opportunity to con people.

The scammers sold the Pink Congo Philodendron to many and passed it off as PPP. The plant also has pink leaves, so it was easy to pull off the schemes. However, the Pink Congo Philodendron leaves turn green once the plant is fully grown. 

To be safe and avoid getting scammed, only buy from trusted sources like our interior design company. Together with delivering this rare plant to you, our team can also help you furnish your home according to your likes and tastes.

Contact us today and let us know your interior design needs.

OBJECTUU
In Blog

5 Reasons Why Feature Walls are Important in Every Room

Feature walls are a great way to add personality and character to any room in your home. They can showcase artwork, photos, or other decorative items. Here, we will discuss the different types of feature walls and why they are important in every room.

1. Accent walls

Accent walls are a great way to add color and interest to any room. They can be used as an opportunity to showcase artwork, photos, or other decorative items that you love. In addition to adding personality and character to a room, accent walls can also create the illusion of a larger space.

If you have a small room that you would like to appear larger, consider painting one wall in a bright color. This will draw the eye upward and make the room appear more spacious. For already large rooms, an accent wall can create a cozier feel. Choose a rich, bold color to paint your feature wall for a cozy and inviting space.

2. A Large Piece of Art, Mirror, or Clock

If you have a large piece of art, mirror or clock you love, consider hanging it on your feature wall. This will add dimension and interest to the space. It is also a great way to fill a large wall without making the space feel too cluttered.

When hanging artwork or mirrors on your feature wall, use the proper hardware to ensure that it is secure. Heavy artwork should be hung with picture hangers that can support the weight. For lighter pieces, command strips or adhesive hooks can be used.


3. Shelving or Cabinets

Another great way to utilize your feature wall is to install shelving or cabinets. This is an excellent option if you have many small items that you would like to display, such as books, knick-knacks, or collectibles. Shelving and cabinets can also be used to store items that you use daily, such as dishes or cookbooks.

When installing shelving or cabinets on your feature wall, measure the space before you purchase any materials. You will also need to consider the weight of the items you will be stored on the shelves. For heavier items, opt for sturdier shelves that can support the weight.


4. Curtains or Drapery

If you want to add a softer look to your feature wall, consider hanging curtains or drapery. This is a great way to filter light and create a more intimate feel in any room. When choosing curtains or drapery for your feature wall, select a fabric that compliments the other colors and textures in the room.

Hang the curtains or drapery at length proportional to the height of the wall. You may want to hang the curtains closer to the ceiling for taller walls. This will create the illusion of a taller space and make the room feel more open.


5. Wallpaper

Wallpaper is another great way to add personality and character to any room. It can be used to create a bold and unique look that will make your feature wall stand out. When choosing wallpaper for your feature wall, be sure to select a design that you love and compliments the other elements in the room.

Installing wallpaper can be tricky, so following the package’s directions is essential. Be sure to measure the wall before you purchase any materials. You will also need to use wallpaper adhesive and primer to ensure that the wallpaper sticks to the wall and does not peel over time.

Let’s Get Started with OPENUU

Feature walls are a great way to add personality and character to any room. When choosing a design for your feature wall, consider the other elements in the room and select a style that you love. With a little bit of planning, you can create a beautiful and unique space that you will enjoy for years to come.

At  OPENUU, we are experts in architecture, interior, exhibition, branding, and product design.

Contact us to schedule a free consultation.

OBJECTUU
In Blog

Wall Clocks: 3 Fun Ways to Enhance Your Wall Decor

Are your walls plain and boring? If so, it’s time to get creative and add some personality to your space! Wall clocks are a great way to do just that. You may be wondering why you should add one? After all, most of us check the time on our phones or watches these days. Well, wall clocks can do more than just tell time – they can also enhance your wall decor in many fun and interesting ways! Wondering how? Keep reading.

Reasons Why Wall Clocks Are a Perfect Addition

A study shows that the decor in your home plays a significant role in your moods. Wall clocks offer endless possibilities when it comes to wall decor. You can choose a clock that matches your existing decor or go for something completely different to create a bold new look. Whichever route you decide to take, here are three reasons why wall clocks are a perfect addition.

They Complement Any Decor

Whether you have a contemporary, modern, or traditional style home, there is a wall clock to suit your needs. Wall clocks come in all shapes, sizes, and colors, so you are sure to find one that compliments your existing decor. If you want something different and unique, the Modena or Andria Wall clock, for example, are perfect choices.

They Make a Statement

Wall clocks are a great way to add some personality to your space. They can be used to make a bold statement or add a touch of whimsy. Whatever your style, there is a clock out there that will reflect it. If you are an animal lover, check out the Modern Poodle Frameless wall clock, Modern dog lover wall clock, or the modern jack Russell Terrier wall clock.

They Are Functional

In addition to being aesthetically pleasing, wall clocks are also functional. As mentioned earlier, they can be used to tell time. But they can also be used as a conversation starter or to help keep track of time when working on a project.

How to Enhance Your Wall Decor Using Wall Clocks

So, how can you enhance your wall decor using wall clocks? Here are fun ways to do it:

As a Focal Point 

A focal point is the first thing your eyes are drawn to when you enter a room. It is typically an object that is both eye-catching and unique. To create this look, choose a large clock with an interesting design. Hang it on a wall that is visible from the entrance of the room. A Modern Dachshund Frameless Wall clock, for instance, can make an excellent focal point!

As Part of a Gallery Wall 

Gallery walls are all the rage these days – and for a good reason! They are a great way to display photos, artwork, and other mementos. And they can be customized to suit any style. To add a clock to your gallery wall, simply find one that coordinates with the other pieces in the collection.

As an Accent Piece 

An accent piece is a small item used to add interest or contrast to a room. Wall clocks make great accent pieces! Hang it on a wall that is adjacent to another object, such as a piece of furniture or a window. This, however, should not limit you as you can also go for a Modern Frenchie wall clock which is an excellent way to make a statement.

Bottom Line

As you can see, wall clocks offer endless possibilities. They come in all shapes, sizes, colors, and styles. So, there is sure to be one that will suit your needs! With so many options available, you can up your wall game by shopping now for our wall clock collection! For more information on interior design, check out our website or get in touch with us.

OBJECTUU
In Blog

5 Reasons To Incorporate Wall Clocks Into Your Wall Decor

When it comes to decorating the walls of your home, you have so many great options. These options help you to avoid having bare walls, and they really help you to complete the look with the rest of your decor. One excellent piece of decor to add to your walls is a wall clock. There are so many awesome reasons why wall clocks can really level up your wall game and make your walls looking amazing! Here are three great reasons to incorporate them into your wall decor. 

They Serve A Purpose 

One excellent reason to incorporate wall clocks into your wall decor is because they are highly functional, and they serve a purpose in your home. You need to be able to tell the time, and having one or more wall clocks in your home makes this much easier for you. You can place a clock in an area where you need to be able to tell the time easily, or in a room where you don’t have any other clocks. 

There Are So Many Styles

Another awesome reason to hang a wall clock on your wall is because you have so many styles to choose from. There are modern styles, classic styles, industrial styles, and everything in between. There are also styles that are more themed and others that are neutral. When it comes to colors, you are really only limited to your imagination. The clocks are made to be both digital and analog, which gives you even more options. You may want a digital clock for your children’s room and an analog clock for your kitchen.  This allows you to easily find a wall clock to go in any room in your home. 

They Come In Different Sizes And Shapes

Wall clocks also come in several sizes as well. These sizes allow you to have a wall clock as a centerpiece on your wall, as well as a small accent piece to fill in a smaller area. There are different shapes as well, such as circular, rectangle, square, oval, heart, and many other solid and more abstract shapes as well. You can even find customized sizes and shapes to fit in extra large, small, or oddly shaped spaces. 

They Are Affordable

Unlike other kinds of wall decor, such as paintings and other artistic pieces, wall clocks are comparatively affordable. This allows you to decorate your walls, even if you are on a budget and would otherwise have to leave your walls bare. This also makes it possible for you to purchase multiple wall clocks when you would only be able to afford one artistic piece. 

They Create An Accent Or Focal Point In The Room  

Lastly, when you choose to purchase a wall clock, you have the benefit of knowing that they will be a great accent or focal point in the room. You can choose a character themed, digital clock to be the focal point in your child’s room, a large farmhouse clock for your kitchen, a gorgeous, detailed clock for your entryway, and the list goes on. This really helps you to make a statement in whatever room you place your wall clock, and also allows you to have a functional piece. 

You really can’t go wrong when you choose to purchase a wall clock to incorporate into your decor because they serve an important purpose by showing you what time it is, they come in several styles, they are available in different sizes and shapes, they’re affordable, and they are a great accent or focal point in any room. 

To learn more great reasons to incorporate wall clocks into your wall decor, or to shop our store to find a great wall decor clock for your home today!

OBJECTUU
In Blog

Top 5 Reasons Why a Heater Fan Is A Must Have in Every Bathroom

A bathroom without a heater fan is like a kitchen without a stove – it just doesn’t make sense! If you’re still on the fence about whether or not you need one of these in your bathroom, here are some reasons why a heater fan is a must-have.

1. They Help Prevent Mold and Mildew Growth

Mold and mildew thrive in damp, warm environments – precisely the environment that often exists in bathrooms. It’s essential to keep the air circulating. A heater fan can help by drawing moist air out of the room and replacing it with drier air from outside. In addition to helping prevent mold and mildew growth, a heater fan can also help keep your bathroom feeling fresh and comfortable. So if you’re looking for a way to fight mold and mildew, a heater fan is worth considering.


2. They Help Dry out Wet Towels and Clothes

After a shower, the last thing you want is to put on a wet towel. And wet clothes are even worse. But if you don’t have a heater fan in your bathroom, that’s what you’ll be dealing with. A heater fan can help dry out wet towels and clothes quickly, so you can get dressed and on with your day. The heat from the fan helps to evaporate the water from wet fabrics, and the circulating air helps speed up the process. As a result, your towels and clothes will be dry.  Another bonus is that you can dry your wet clothes here, saving you the hassle of hanging them up to dry elsewhere. So if you’re tired of putting on damp towels, make sure to install a heater fan in your bathroom.


3. They Help Ventilate the Room after a Steamy Shower

After a steamy shower, the last thing you want is to feel trapped in a humid bathroom. Luckily, a simple way to ventilate the room and prevent that stuffy feeling is to turn on your heater fan. The fan will help dry out the bathroom and avoid mold and mildew growth by circulating the air. Plus, it will also help distribute any fragrance from your shower gel or shampoo, giving your bathroom a pleasant scent. So next time you step out of the shower, reach for the switch and give your bathroom a quick blast of fresh air.


4. They Provide a Gentle Heat That Makes the Bathroom More Comfortable During Colder Months

When the weather outside is cold, the last thing you want is to step into a freezing cold air after a hot steamy shower. A heater fan can help to make your bathroom more comfortable during the colder months. A heater fan can quickly take the chill out of the air by circulating warm air around the room. And because it doesn’t produce any sharp gusts of hot air, a heater fan can provide a gentle heat that is perfect for relaxing in the bath or getting ready for bed. Whether you’re looking to save on your heating bill or make your bathroom more inviting, a heater fan is great to add some extra warmth to your home.


5. They Help Deodorize the Air in the Bathroom

No one likes a smelly bathroom. It is unappealing, but it can also be embarrassing if you have guests over. Fortunately, there is an easy way to combat bathroom odors: using a heater fan. Heater fans work by circulating the air in the room, which helps carry away any unpleasant smells. In addition, the heat produced by the fan helps to evaporate any lingering moisture, which can also contribute to foul odors. By running a heater fan in your bathroom, you can keep the air fresh and odor-free.


Conclusion

We hope you can now see the importance of having a heater fan in your bathroom! If you have any questions or want to learn more about our services for your bathroom renovation, don’t hesitate to contact OPENUU. We would be happy to help you select the perfect fan for your needs! Contact us for a free discovery call.

OBJECTUU
In Blog

How Lighting Enhances Your Space: Lighting Design and Ideas to Transform Your Space

Consider this. When you enter a room enhanced with friendly, inviting light, you’ll instantly feel at ease. But if you enter the same room with harsh or insufficient lighting, your mood flips completely. Why?

Lighting has biological and psychological effects that can affect the health and well-being of humans. Biologically, good lighting designs help stabilize your circadian rhythm, which boosts your overall mood and contributes to a better night’s sleep.  

On the psychological part, good lighting can help reduce depression and increase cognitive performance such as reaction time and productivity.

Let’s Shed Some Light:
How to Enhance Your Space Using Lighting

Indeed, lighting is so much more than a nighttime tool. You can spice it with a bit of creativity to make it double as a work of art and enhance your space in so many ways. In this interest, we have made you a brief rundown on how you can use lighting design and ideas to transform your (living, office, or restaurant) space

1. Change the Color Palette of Your Space

Among a variety of choices, adding color is a wise alternative if you need to breathe some life into your space. And don’t shy from the painting costs—a paint job will not be necessary.

You can change your room’s color scheme by introducing pops of brightness with superior lighting fixtures and accessories. 

For instance, if you need a bright, playful look in your rooms, you can go for a pendant light or a table lamp. If sleek colors are too extreme for your taste, terrazzo wall sconces are a great way to warm up your rooms without the dramatic hues.

2. Upgrade Your Aesthetics

In this social media era, you can easily get lost in the design trends bandwagon and feel as if your space is outdated and behind time. On the brighter side of things, decorative light fixtures can help you make an excellent comeback and transform your home or office into a beautiful and elegant space.

Consider replacing old lighting fixtures with current lighting design trends that you love. For example, you can add a modern floor lamp or crescent pendants to refresh and awaken your rooms. However, you may want to be careful to select fixtures that complement your current color palette and the overall design sensibility of your space.

3. Establish Flow in Your Space

When you want to divide an open area into distinct “rooms,” you can use decorative lighting to create distinct spatial divides. The open floor plans of new houses have a modern feel, but it can be difficult to distinguish dining, living, or working areas without the walls.

You can add pendant lighting overhead to divide areas; center the lights over each area you want separate. Consider using flush mount lighting in your living space to make it feel more open and relaxing and long hanging pendants over a dining area to create an intimate feel.

4. Add a Personality Statement

Sometimes all your space needs is an extra dose of fun. Does your life or room feel dull and serious? You can add whimsical pieces such as a statement table lamp to add interest. A subtle, modern lighting fixture or accessory will help break up a more traditionally styled space.

You can bring cheer into a serious or dark-toned room using unique accessories such as the LED tree branches decoration.

5. Smart Lighting to Enhance Your Space

With the increasing advancements in technology and lighting control, setting the perfect mood for your space is now easier than ever. Smart lighting and lighting controls are becoming more popular, especially in the hospitality industry, due to their ability to enhance customer experiences. 

The ability to control the mood and intensity of lighting is a great milestone for your restaurants. For instance, you can set a brighter atmosphere in the morning to wake customers and an intimate and relaxing mood to calm them in the evening. And what’s more on smart lights and lighting technology…

It’s the geometric assembly smart night light. The geometric night light enhances your rooms with style and accent and is easy to control. Some notable features of the geometric night light include:

  • Geometric shape- create superior aesthetics for your room by combining multiple panels
  • Sound and light Interaction- let your lights dance to the tune of the music in your space
  • Voice control- connect the geometric night light to Amazon or Google Home and control the lights hands-free
  • Customized color selection: Customize the color of the light to your mood by using an App or manually by sliding your fingertips along each panel

How We Can Help

Whatever your budget, style, or objective, lighting is an excellent way to transform how your space feels when a person walks through the door. At OPENUU, we are an award-winning design studio and believe that beautifully curated objects have the power to enrich and enhance even the gloomiest spaces.

Try something new from our contemporary lighting design selections and feel the difference each time you flip the switch. And for every purchase you make, we donate ten hot and nutritious meals to someone in need. 

For more information on how lighting can enhance your space (whether office, home, or restaurant), feel free to Contact Us today, and we will be more than willing to assist.

OBJECTUU
In Blog

6 Bathroom Must-Haves To Include When Renovating Your Bathroom

If you are looking into renovating your bathroom, you have likely realized that there are so many awesome things that you can incorporate during the renovation process. These things can help you to update some of the dated aspects of your bathroom, personalize it to meet your needs and the needs of your family, and otherwise make your bathroom look and function exactly how you have always wanted it to. This article will discuss 6 bathroom must-haves to include when renovating your bathroom. 

A Heater Fan

One awesome thing to include when renovating your bathroom is a heater fan. This is a fan that is installed directly into the wall or ceiling of your bathroom, and does an excellent job of providing you with much-needed heat. It is also great for circulating the air in the bathroom, so that you don’t have a build-up of moisture. This is very helpful when it comes to reducing issues of mold and mildew in your bathroom. 

A Heated Towel Rack 

Another awesome feature to incorporate is a heated towel rack. There are few things that are better than wrapping up in a warm towel after you have stepped out of the shower or tub and into the cold air. When you purchase a heated towel rack and place your towels on it, this is exactly what you get. The heat from the towel rack will warm the entire towel and leave it the perfect temperature for you. 

A Double Vanity

Another bathroom must-have to include during your renovation is a double vanity. If more than one person uses your bathroom, then a double vanity is a must. This allows multiple people to use the mirrors, sinks, counter space, etc., at one time, because the vanity itself was created to function this way. This can solve a lot of issues with bathroom usage and makes your bathroom much more functional. 

A Jetted Tub 

A luxurious item to include during the renovation is a jetted tub. You should be able to soak and relax during your baths, and this is exactly what a jetted tub allows you to do. The size of the tub makes it possible for you to stretch out and the jets help to massage your neck, back, and legs. This not only helps you to feel better physically, but it can also help to reduce mental stress and tension as well. 

Bright Lighting 

Your bathroom is a room where the lighting is very important. Because of this, you want to make sure that you have the proper lighting installed during your renovation. You want to have plenty of lighting above your mirrors, as well as above your shower and bathtubs. You can also choose some gorgeous light fixtures that not only add more light to your bathroom, but are also interior design features that help you to really personalize your bathroom and make it beautiful. 

A High-Tech Toilet 

Lastly, you definitely want to incorporate a high-tech toilet into your bathroom renovation. There are some amazing toilets out there with features you likely haven’t even thought of. You can get toilets that have automatic lids that open and close, automatic flushing systems, bidets cleaning systems, self-cleaning features, and more. These features can also be customized, depending on which toilet you purchase, allowing you to get exactly what you want.

When renovating your bathroom, you have so many awesome options, and it is important that you take advantage of them. To learn about more bathroom must-haves to include when renovating your bathroom, or to begin the renovation process today, visit us at OPENUU.

OBJECTUU
In Blog

5 Costs to Include in Your Restaurant Renovation Budget

The call to renovate comes more often for restaurateurs than for other businesses. There’s so much that hinges on your restaurant’s aesthetic appeal that you can’t hope to get by with repairs.

Also, people tend to be drawn to restaurants that keep up with architectural and interior design trends.  If you hope to keep attracting customers, you need to plan for regular renovations.

The first part of renovating involves understanding what needs to be done and creating a budget that fits the bill. The big question is, how do you create the perfect budget to avoid running out of money? Stick around to find out.

Restaurant Renovation Costs to Budget for

Here are the most common costs you need to include in your restaurant renovation budget:

1. Contractor Costs

Labor costs will occupy a significant part of your budget. Generally, remodeling costs run from about $200 to $250 per square foot. However, there are many factors that could make you pay higher or lower.

For example, the size of your restaurant, the amount of work required, and the equipment they need to use affect how much you spend. Plus, a restaurant in Washington DC will cost more to renovate than another one in a small town.

You can work with a designer from the beginning for tips on what to spend more money on and what you can spend less on.  

2. Materials

Materials typically cover every hard surface you have to renovate.  For example, epoxy flooring costs in 2021 ranged from $1,407 to $2,942 while professional installation cost $3 to $12 per square foot. Hardwood floorings cost $6 to $12 per square foot. It also matters how the wood has been treated –such as engineered versus solid and so on. You also need to think about whether the floor needs preparation work.

Additionally, consider whether your restaurant renovation requires buying new furniture or refurbishing the old ones, any new art you may need to buy, and how the make of each of these things affects the cost.

Your contractor can guide you on costs, quality, and stores that give discounts. Do some homework too and compare different prices for everything you need before you lay down the costs.

3. Opportunity Costs When Closed

Major structural changes in a restaurant usually render it inoperable for a while. Smaller ones, like those that affect just one section, may also make it impossible for you to do business as usual.

For example, you can’t keep cooking in a kitchen under renovation. That means the lifeline of your restaurant will be cut off for a while. If it’s only the dining area, you may have to resort to take-out.

The point is to estimate how much you’ll miss out on sales and reservations for that period and plan for it. There’s good news though. Restaurant sales go up from 10 to 20% after renovations.  

4. Utilities

If you’re adding a new section, you need to consider the cost of utilities such as plumbing, electrical wiring, and exhaust systems.

Kitchen restaurant design cost can take up to 75% of the total budget. If you’re doing an overhaul, plan for $300 to $500 per square foot.

Commercial plumbers charge an average of $85 per hour, and an additional cost followed by 15-minute increments after the first hour. They also charge service call-out fees ranging from $50 to $150 and travel fees of $1 to $2 for each mile after traveling for ten miles.

You can use the renovation as an excuse to go green and save money on your budget and in the long term. These include lower flow fixtures while you remodel the bathroom and LED lighting fixtures.

5. Permits

Renovation permits are much cheaper compared to other renovation costs. Your contractor can let you know which ones you need according to your state’s requirements.

Typically, you need a building permit when you’re adding floors or structures. This permits costs anywhere between $50 and $1,000 depending on the age of the building and location. 

In Conclusion

The safest way to plan your budget is always on the higher side to cover unforeseen costs. Plan for the renovation during low seasons such as winter when you’re more likely to get cheaper quotations from contractors.

Better yet, enlist a designer who understands the restaurant scene so they’ll help you capitalize on aspects that will make every dollar you spend worth it.

OPENUU is a design studio with more than 20 years of experience in architecture branding, and interior design. We help businesses like yours to combine design and function for the best results. Learn more.

OBJECTUU
In Blog

Renovation Time: How to Plan the Duration of Your Home Improvement Project

How much time should you allocate for a new home renovation?

Home renovations are each a unique project to the space and the changes you want to make. Naturally, renovating a small bathroom will take less time than the same depth of renovations in the kitchen. Repainting your cabinetry will take less time than rebuilding the whole cabinet set.  No matter how big or small your renovations, it is vital to know the real time estimate for the duration

Time Your Renovation in Stages

How long will your renovation take? This is easiest to answer in stages. Consider each state necessary, from ripping out the old features to building brand new features – each stage takes time. Roughly, you can allot 2 hours of time per day per team reliably and up to 6 hours of rotating shifts. The number of tasks, in total, that make up your renovation project will determine how long it will take to complete. 

You can also look up each type of renovation task to determine how much must be built before other features are built around it.

Example Renovation Stages 8-20 weeks

  • Planning & Design Stage – 2-4 weeks
  • Supply Delivery – 2-8 weeks
  • Tear-Out Stage – 1-2 weeks
  • Utility Line Stage – 1-2 weeks
  • Fixtures and Features – 1 week
  • Structures, Cabinets, and Countertops – 1-4 weeks
  • Paints, Finishes, and Sealcoat – 2-5 days

It can be as small as a quick bathroom renovation, to the whole gut renovation, which could be 6 months long!

Make Plans to Stay Somewhere Else

Most home renovations are less than enjoyable to live next to. Homes are often open with sheets of plastic and privacy is not guaranteed. Once you have determined how long your home renovation is likely to be, you can make plans to safely stay elsewhere. Pack up the family and catch a stay-cation at a local resort, visit relatives, or stay with a nearby friend. You can also book a vacation rental – temporarily renting a vacation-style home in the suburbs for comfort and convenience without the complexity of living in a hotel for a few weeks or months.

Causes for Home Renovation Delays

  • Design changes
  • Supplier shortages
  • Shipping delays
  • Poor weather (outdoor work)

Another serious consideration is that delays happen. Most contractors will advise you to add a few extra days to your schedule to account for delays.  Project delays can come from a variety of sources. If you have a project exposed to the outside, then weather plays a role. Lately, we’ve faced widespread manufacturing and transport shortages, leading to supply and shipping delays. If the homeowner makes a design change, this can also result in a delay as plans change.

Calculate and plan for delays so that a late shipment or poor weather doesn’t throw off your entire estimated schedule for completion.

Ordering Furniture for Your Renovated Home

When your work experiences no delays and contractors can arrive throughout the week, often deliveries are the one thing you have to plan furthest ahead. Special ordered building materials can take weeks or months to arrive.

Home renovations also tend to pair with redecoration and new furniture. Ordering new furniture for your home can take 6-8 weeks for delivery. This is part of the reason why it’s important to have a complete design plan before you begin. By ordering your furniture and building materials early, you can optimize their delivery time for when your renovation project is ready to put them to use. Ordering furniture early ensures the furniture is available when the work on your house is done and you’re ready to redecorate.

How long does a home improvement project take? It depends on the stages of home improvement and the shipment times for the materials, fixtures, and furniture your project needs. Work with your contractors (or DIY your plan) to order your goods early. You can choose to start work when your materials arrive or time their arrival as you move through the stages of your home renovation project.

Looking for trendy, beautiful furniture for your new home design? Contact us today.