Many first-time restaurant owners underestimate how much architecture can impact each stage of development. Here, we’ll share our step-by-step guide to opening a restaurant in Chicago, including architecture permits, construction nuances, and more, as well as answer some frequently asked questions about hiring a restaurant architect Chicago expert. How to Open a Restaurant In Chicago […]
Restaurants
Restaurant Architecture in Chicago: Lessons From the Txa Txa Club Project
Chicago is home to one of the most celebrated dining scenes in the country, from beloved neighborhood cafés to world-famous, Michelin-star establishments. It’s also home to one of the most recognizable skylines in the world, featuring famous architects from every corner of the globe. When Chicago’s great food and amazing architecture come together, that’s magic […]
Commercial Architecture for Restaurants & Retail in Chicago: Designing for Experience and Flow
In Chicago’s evolving commercial landscape, spaces are expected to do more than simply function. They need to create a clear sense of experience from the moment you walk in. Strong commercial architecture projects in Chicago and thoughtful restaurant design in Chicago go beyond aesthetics, shaping how you move, gather, and engage within a space. Every […]
Restaurant Design That Works: Architecture for Kitchens, Dining Rooms and Flow
A restaurant can have the best menu in the city and still struggle if the restaurant design creates more challenges for staff, confuses guests, or can’t support the evening rush. This is why restaurant interior design goes far beyond styling. Great hospitality design is operational design. It’s the restaurant architecture that protects the guest experience […]
Restaurant Interior Design Firms + Architect Collaboration: From Concept to CO
Opening a restaurant is equal parts dream, hustle, and problem-solving ultra marathon. From the first outline of a menu scribbled on the back of a napkin to the moment the doors officially open, every decision matters. One of the most important parts of the process is how restaurant interior design firms collaborate with architects to […]
Contemporary Coffee Bar in the Round Inspired by Lake Michigan Ripples
We transformed a bland, concrete box into a nature inspired contemporary coffee bar.
Modern Urban Coffee Shop: Dollop Coffee
Dollop Coffee Shop has a new home in our latest modern urban coffee shop renovation.
The Izakaya, Ramen Bar & Kaiseki Restaurant: What Makes their Design Distinct?
Learn about some design distinctions of the izakaya, ramen bar and the kaiseki restaurant.
Osteria, Enoteca and Trattoria: What makes their design distinct?
We take a look at the design details of three Italian eatery types
From Food Truck to Restaurant Guide and a Truck News Recap
Recent court rulings maintain restrictions for food truck owners
Campus Dogs & Deli is Open for Business
Campus Dogs & Deli, a cheery stop for an artisanal dog or sandwich, is now open in the heart of Lincoln Park.
The French Bistro, Brasserie and Café: What Makes Their Design Distinct?
We explore the key design differences between the classic French restaurant types.
Chicago Outdoor Living (and Eating): Sidewalk Cafes, People Spots, and now … the Curbside Cafe
The Curbside Cafe ordinance – permitting restaurants to annex parking spaces for outdoor seating – is Chicago’s newest option outdoor seating.
Coming Soon: Pastoral’s New Restaurant and Artisanal Market
Our latest restaurant design is already under construction in Andersonville; Appellation will be the fifth location for Pastoral Artisan Cheese, Bread and Wine.
Summer Indoor Outdoor Living: Good Design Breaks Down Barriers
We love the indoor outdoor living options afforded by Moss HQ. Here’s how to maximize your access to the outside this summer at home and elsewhere.












