Kickstart Your Brewery Business With a Commercial Property Remodel

Craft breweries have surged in popularity over the past decade, with enthusiasts increasingly seeking unique, locally brewed flavors. If you’re an aspiring brewer looking to enter this thriving industry, one key decision is the selection and design of your brewery space. After you’ve found a local property for sale, a commercial property remodel offers an excellent opportunity to customize your space to fit your brewing vision while maximizing efficiency and aesthetics. In this guide, we’ll explore how remodeling a commercial property can kickstart your brewery business and set you on the path to success.

Understanding Your Brewery’s Needs

Before diving into a remodel, it’s crucial to understand the specific requirements of your brewery. Consider factors such as:

• Production Capacity: Determine the scale of your operation based on projected demand and growth plans.
• Equipment: Assess the space needed for brewing equipment, fermentation tanks, storage, and packaging facilities.
• Utility Requirements: Ensure access to adequate water, electricity, and drainage systems.
• Regulatory Compliance: Familiarize yourself with local zoning laws, health and safety regulations, and building codes applicable to breweries.

Benefits of Remodeling a Commercial Property Remodel

Wondering about the benefits of a commercial property remodel for your brewery? Here are a few to consider that a commercial remodeling company wants you to know about as you navigate the renovation process with their professional assistance.

• Customization: Remodeling allows you to design a space tailored to your brewery’s unique requirements. From the layout of brewing equipment to the ambiance of tasting rooms, every aspect can be customized to reflect your brand identity and brewing philosophy.
• Efficiency Improvements: A well-designed brewery layout can streamline production processes, reducing labor costs and increasing productivity. By optimizing workflow and minimizing bottlenecks, you can maximize output while maintaining quality standards.
• Cost Savings: While remodeling a commercial property incurs upfront costs, it can result in long-term savings by improving energy efficiency, reducing maintenance expenses, and enhancing operational efficiency. Additionally, investing in quality materials and equipment can minimize future repair and replacement costs.
• Brand Building: The design of your brewery space plays a crucial role in shaping the customer experience and building brand loyalty. A thoughtfully designed taproom or outdoor beer garden can create a welcoming atmosphere that encourages customers to linger, socialize, and become ambassadors for your brand.
• Regulatory Compliance: A commercial property remodel offers an opportunity to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations, building codes, and ADA accessibility standards. By addressing these requirements during the design phase, you can avoid costly retrofitting or legal issues down the line. This may include addressing water damage removal at the beginning of the commercial property remodel project.

Key Considerations for a Brewery Remodel

Here are the key considerations for a commercial property remodel as you navigate turning your new space into a brewery business!

• Space Utilization: Optimize the layout of your brewery to maximize efficiency and workflow. Consider factors such as proximity of brewing equipment to minimize material handling, dedicated areas for fermentation and packaging, and ample space for storage and inventory management.
• Tasting Room Design: The design of your tasting room can significantly impact the customer experience. Consider factors such as seating capacity, bar layout, lighting, and decor to create an inviting space that encourages customers to relax and enjoy your brews.
• Sustainability: Incorporate sustainable design principles into your remodel to minimize environmental impact and operating costs. This may include energy-efficient lighting, water-saving fixtures, recycling programs, and sourcing local materials whenever possible.
• Safety and Compliance: Prioritize safety measures such as fire suppression systems, ventilation, and slip-resistant oak wood flooring in areas prone to spills. Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations, including proper labeling and storage of hazardous materials. Professional remodelers will also know if you need a repiping service, roofing fixes by one of your local roofing companies, and other essential renovation projects to be completed.
• Aesthetics and Branding: Use design elements such as color schemes, signage, and artwork to convey your brewery’s brand identity and storytelling. Consider consulting with a professional designer or branding agency to create a cohesive visual identity that resonates with your target audience.

Choosing Flooring, Furniture, and Paint Colors

Choosing flooring, furniture, and wall colors for a brewery is a crucial aspect of creating an inviting and cohesive ambiance that reflects the brewery’s brand identity and enhances the overall customer experience. Here’s a guide to selecting these elements during a commercial property remodel:

Flooring:

1. Durability: Opt for durable flooring materials that can withstand high foot traffic, spills, and heavy equipment. Materials such as concrete, porcelain tile, or epoxy coatings are ideal for brewery spaces due to their resistance to moisture, stains, and wear.
2. Safety: Prioritize safety by choosing non-slip flooring options, especially in areas prone to spills or moisture accumulation. Textured surfaces or non-slip coatings can help prevent slips and falls, ensuring a safe environment for patrons and staff.
3. Aesthetics: Select flooring materials that complement the brewery’s theme and ambiance. Consider rustic finishes such as stained concrete or distressed wood for a warm and inviting atmosphere, or sleek and modern tiles for a contemporary look.

Furniture:

1. Comfort: Choose comfortable and functional furniture that encourages patrons to linger and socialize. Opt for ergonomic chairs, benches, or bar stools with supportive backs and cushioned seats. Ensure ample spacing between tables and seating areas to accommodate patrons of all sizes and mobility needs.
2. Versatility: Select versatile furniture pieces that can adapt to different seating arrangements and group sizes. Modular seating options such as sectional sofas or stackable chairs allow for flexibility in rearranging the space for events or busy periods.
3. Durability: Invest in high-quality furniture built to withstand the rigors of a brewery environment. Look for materials such as metal, wood, or durable plastics that are resistant to moisture, fading, and wear. Consider furniture with easy-to-clean surfaces to maintain cleanliness and hygiene standards.

Wall Colors:

1. Brand Identity: Choose wall colors that reflect the brewery’s brand identity, theme, and personality. Incorporate brand colors, logos, or artwork into the design to create a cohesive visual identity that resonates with patrons.
2. Ambiance: Consider the desired ambiance and atmosphere when selecting wall colors. Lighter shades such as whites, creams, or pale blues can create a bright and airy feel, while darker hues such as navy, charcoal, or earth tones add warmth and coziness to the space.
3. Contrast and Accents: Use contrasting colors or accent walls to create visual interest and focal points within the brewery. Experiment with bold accent colors or textured finishes to highlight architectural features or draw attention to specific areas such as the bar or brewing equipment.

By carefully selecting flooring, furniture, and wall colors that align with the brewery’s brand identity and aesthetic vision, you can create an inviting and memorable space that enhances the overall customer experience. Prioritize durability, comfort, and aesthetics to create a welcoming environment where patrons can relax, socialize, and enjoy craft beer in style.

Decorating the Inside of the Brewery

Decorating the interior of a brewery is not just about aesthetics; it’s about creating an atmosphere that reflects the brewery’s brand identity, enhances the customer experience, and complements the brewing process. Here are some key considerations when decorating the inside during a commercial property remodel:

1. Theme and Branding: Start by defining the brewery’s theme and branding elements. Whether it’s rustic, industrial, modern, or eclectic, the interior decor should align with the brewery’s identity. Incorporate brand colors, logos, and storytelling elements into the design to create a cohesive visual identity.
2. Functional Layout: Design the interior layout with functionality in mind. Separate areas for brewing, fermentation, packaging, and storage should be optimized for efficiency and workflow. Ensure that customers can move freely between the tasting room, bar, and outdoor areas without disrupting brewery operations.
3. Brewing Equipment Showcase: Highlight the brewing process by incorporating glass walls or viewing windows that allow customers to see the brewing equipment in action. Displaying brewing tanks, fermentation vessels, and kegging systems adds visual interest and educates patrons about the craft beer-making process.
4. Tasting Room Ambiance: Create a welcoming atmosphere in the tasting room with comfortable seating, ambient lighting with the help of local electrical contractors, and inviting decor. Consider using reclaimed wood, exposed brick, or industrial accents to add character and warmth to the space. Incorporate communal tables, cozy seating nooks, and bar counters to accommodate different seating preferences. Consider window replacements to bring in more natural light!
5. Artwork and Decor: Use artwork, murals, and decorative elements to enhance the brewery’s ambiance and tell its story. Display local artwork, historical photos, or brewing memorabilia that resonate with the brewery’s theme and connect with the community. Consider commissioning custom artwork or collaborating with local artists to add a personal touch to the decor.
6. Interactive Elements: Engage customers with interactive elements such as self-guided brewery tours, tasting flights, or brewing workshops. Incorporate educational displays, tasting notes, and beer profiles to enhance the customer experience and encourage exploration.

By carefully curating the interior decor of a brewery, you can create a memorable and immersive experience for customers while reinforcing the brewery’s brand identity and values. Whether it’s through thematic elements, functional design, or interactive features, thoughtful interior decoration plays a crucial role in shaping the overall ambiance and success of a brewery.

Preparing an Outdoor Seating Area

Preparing an outdoor eating area at a brewery during your commercial property remodel requires thoughtful planning to create a welcoming and comfortable space where patrons can relax, socialize, and enjoy craft beer and food. Here are essential steps to consider when setting up an outdoor eating area:

1. Space Planning: Assess the available outdoor space and determine the layout for the eating area. Consider factors such as seating capacity, flow of foot traffic, and integration with existing brewery facilities. Maximize the use of space by incorporating a mix of communal tables, individual seating, and standing areas.
2. Shade and Shelter: Provide adequate shade and shelter to protect patrons from the elements and ensure year-round usability. Install umbrellas, awnings, or pergolas to provide relief from the sun during hot days and shelter from rain or inclement weather. Consider incorporating heaters or fire pits for warmth during cooler evenings or winter months.
3. Seating and Furnishings: Choose durable and weather-resistant furniture that can withstand outdoor conditions. Opt for materials such as metal, wood, or high-quality plastic that are easy to clean and maintain. Select comfortable seating options such as benches, chairs, and stools to accommodate varying group sizes and preferences.
4. Ambiance and Decor: Enhance the ambiance of the outdoor eating area with decorative elements that reflect the brewery’s theme and atmosphere. Incorporate lighting fixtures, string lights, or lanterns to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere during evening hours. Add potted plants, greenery, or landscaping features to soften the space and create a sense of natural beauty.
5. Food Service Infrastructure: Set up a designated area for food service, whether it’s a food truck, mobile kitchen, or onsite restaurant. Ensure that the food service area is easily accessible from the outdoor seating area and equipped with necessary utilities such as electricity, water, and waste disposal facilities. Provide adequate signage or menu boards to inform patrons about food options and specials.
6. Entertainment and Activities: Enhance the outdoor dining experience with entertainment and recreational activities that appeal to patrons of all ages. Consider installing games such as cornhole, giant Jenga, or bocce ball to encourage social interaction and friendly competition. Host live music performances, trivia nights, or special events to create a lively and vibrant atmosphere.
7. Safety and Accessibility: Prioritize safety measures to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience for patrons. Install adequate lighting, handrails, and non-slip surfaces to prevent accidents and injuries, especially during evening hours. Ensure compliance with ADA accessibility standards to accommodate patrons with disabilities and mobility limitations. Be sure to hire a tree removal service if there are hazardous trees on the property that need to be taken down.

By carefully planning and preparing an outdoor eating area at a brewery, you can create a dynamic and inviting space that enhances the overall customer experience and complements the brewery’s offerings. From functional considerations such as seating and shelter to decorative elements and entertainment options, every aspect contributes to creating a memorable and enjoyable outdoor dining experience for patrons. Be sure to also hire an asphalt contractor service to pave a smooth parking lot for your customers!

Remodeling a commercial property offers an exciting opportunity to kickstart your brewery business by creating a customized space that reflects your brand identity and meets your operational needs. By carefully planning the design and construction process, you can optimize efficiency, enhance customer experience, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. Whether you’re transforming a warehouse, storefront, or historic building, a well-executed remodel can set your brewery on the path to success in the thriving craft beer industry. With the right approach to planning and executing your commercial property remodel, you can create a brewery space that not only meets your operational needs but also captivates customers and strengthens your brand presence in the competitive craft beer market.