With the Middle East boasting thousands of miles of coastline, Jeffrey Meawad, founder of JM Architects, identifies some of the main factors to consider in beachfront restaurant design.

When it comes to beachfront projects and coastal restaurants, it is vital to understand the client’s mindset. After all, not everyone goes to a restaurant by the beach just to eat; there’s so much more to the experience. Visitors want to enjoy a unique experience where they can indulge in delicious food while admiring the view, going for a swim or even doing a spot of shopping.

Blending in
Biophilic design is one of the latest and most innovative trends in architecture. By utilizing natural materials and taking inspiration from colors and textures found in nature, operators can create spaces that promote a sense of calm and well-being. Light wood tones, fishermen’s ropes and nets, wicker, rattan, bamboo, a color palette of various neutral shades and crisp whites, and easy care textiles, such as linen, are popular in beach-front design. It’s important to “blend in” yet stand out.

Design components
With open-air setups, a well-thought-out shading system is critical to ensure the comfort of guests. At JM Architects, we often use more than one system to create a series of dynamic shadows that are aesthetically pleasing and a talking point. Wind also affects the choice of design materials used for furniture and overhead covers, such as canopies and pergolas. The fabrics we select play with the wind itself, resulting in a gentle movement that mirrors the waves.
Choosing the right furniture is key. It is imperative to find the most durable materials to endure moments of leisure and comfort at all times be it day or night.
Finally, greenery must not be overlooked.
Trees and plants add life to the space, as well as a pop of natural color to contrast with monochromatic surroundings.

Freshening up
A bathroom break should always be considered when designing a venue. Operators can add a special touch in this regard by integrating a pretty promenade or mini lobby that guests can experience before reaching the restrooms.

Getting social
The social media explosion has boosted the popularity of “Instagrammable” spaces in restaurants, bars and hotels. By installing interesting, eye-catching areas, operators can encourage guests to take pictures and tag their venue, thereby providing them with online exposure. Instagram-worthy features could take the form of a spectacular seafood bar display, an interactive sun shading system or a massive fire pit.

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@jeffreymeawadarchitect