Handbook

Textile in restaurant interior design encompasses more than just curtains and drapes; it primarily includes tablecloths, napkins, runners, etc. The textile style is chosen based on the so-called “status” of the establishment.

 

For a highly-rated restaurant, it’s customary to choose tablecloths and napkins made from natural materials, with minimal patterns and decorations, and, of course, in pristine white. Sometimes, very light pastel shades may also be suitable.

 

For more casual establishments, any color palette that matches the overall design project is appropriate. The key is that the textile must be durable and resistant to wear, as it will undergo daily washing and ironing.

Let me discuss the main criteria and nuances in selecting textiles for restaurant or café interior design.

 

Wear Resistance

 

This is a crucial factor because textiles undergo numerous washes, wear and tear, and fading of colors. Therefore, table textiles from materials treated with chemical coatings from famous manufacturers like TEFLON or ARCOFIRE are gaining popularity. This treatment helps:

• Prolong the life of the textile;
• Provide properties such as moisture and fire resistance;
• Increase the material’s strength.

However, remember that after a certain number of washes, these properties diminish. Thus, in addition to a set of chemically treated linens, it’s wise to purchase several sets made from other materials.

 

Natural Fabrics

 

Table textiles made from linen are highly valued. Linen products look great, are resistant to wear and washing, are durable and presentable. However, natural linen fabric has a drawback – it wrinkles easily, is difficult to iron, and is quite expensive.

Therefore, a clever approach is to buy linen textiles with a small addition of synthetic materials, such as polyester. This move can save some money, as the fabric with synthetic additives is cheaper. It also eliminates drawbacks related to ironing, as polyester makes the fabric softer and more pliable. Visually, this fabric is indistinguishable from 100% linen.

 

Professional Textile

 

This is specifically produced for the restaurant industry, so its composition is meticulously calculated for optimal long-term use. It washes well, and stains are easily removed due to the use of special polyester fibers.

Dyes that withstand chemical agents and high temperatures are used for coloring the fabrics. Thus, this textile can be confidently washed and ironed without fear of fading or shrinking.

I recommend preferring professional textiles if you intend to purchase a set of ready-made products.

 

Custom-Made Table Linens

 

If you want textiles of your individual style, it would be more practical to have them custom-made. This will help your establishment create a unique image, utilizing such a fail-safe technique as embroidering the restaurant’s logo on tablecloths and napkins. You can also order custom uniforms for the staff.

 

Seasonal Textiles

 

I recommend restaurant owners always have several sets of table textiles for different seasons. This also applies to sets of curtains and other accessories – they can be changed with the seasons and lighting.

Currently, it’s fashionable to offer blankets for warming up in cold weather in the restaurant’s outdoor or chill-out areas. Naturally, the style of the blankets should also be in harmony with the overall interior style.

 

Special Occasion Table Textiles

 

For organizing major celebrations like weddings, anniversaries, or banquets, it’s advisable to have a special festive set of textiles, including not only tablecloths and napkins but also buffet aprons, chair covers, runners, and other specialized accessories.

This special ceremonial set should be made of high-quality material, such as linen, half-linen, or satin, and should ideally be monochromatic, possibly with fine embroidery, preferably in white or cream colors.

 

That concludes this part. If you’re having trouble choosing textiles for your restaurant or café, feel free to contact me – designer Olesya Blashchenko. I can help you select elegant textiles that not only match the overall interior of your establishment but are also high-quality and affordable.