Pubs are a staple part of communities, but unfortunately, many of them are having to close or sell on to new buyers simply due to not being able to afford the costly upkeep and running of them.
To run a successful pub business, the pub needs to not only look the part but also provide the key elements, like good food and drink, to attract patrons through the door every day.
A pub fit-out might be a great idea if the pub’s current interior feels a little outdated or worn and tired. Appearances are everything, especially when it’s setting first impressions. Therefore, there are some useful tips worth knowing so that you can select the right furnishings and style that match the aesthetics you’re going for for your pub.
Pre-Planning: Setting the Foundation
Pre-planning is an integral part of a pub fit-out because you need to define who your audience is and what the concept of the pub will look like in relation to who you’re appealing to.
From traditional local setups to high-energy sports bars, the type of niche you have will guide the design choices you make.
The typical UK costs for 2026 will range from anywhere between £1,500 to £4,000 per sqm. This all depends on the specifications of the fitout itself.
You should also factor in a contingency fund of 15-20% extra for any unforeseen structural issues or delays that may occur. Feasibility surveys are also important to do at this stage in order to check for drainage, electrical capacity, and asbestos in older buildings before signing any leases.
The Core Elements of Pub Design
Building upon the core elements of the pub’s design will help to create a cohesive space that works effectively for staff and patrons, as well as being something that attracts more customers to your doors every day.
The bar is the hero of the space and therefore should be at the right height and provide ample standing space to be served and to see everything that’s on offer when requesting a drink or ordering food.
Zoning is helpful because it’s good for profitability and catering to different pub visitors. High energy zones, like near the bar, should provide plenty of space, and there should be enough space from the bar to the dining area so that a little privacy and sound control is provided.
Lounge and booths are great for further dwelling time and higher food spending. It’s good to ensure that staff can move between the bar, kitchen, and cellar without any bottlenecks.
To create the right aesthetic within the space, layered lighting and sound-absorbent materials are essential. As mentioned above, it can help with zoning and noise levels.
These are all important elements of the pub’s design that you want to get right in order to provide a welcoming atmosphere to your guests.
Technical and Regulatory Compliance
Whilst this is an interior upgrade, there are still technical and regulatory compliance to adhere to.
For example, you want to check that all alcohol licenses are up to date, if not already acquired, and that planning permission for shopfront changes has been approved. There’s nothing worse than attempting planning permission without approval.
Mandatory requirements for wheelchair ramps, accessible toilets, and lowered counter heights are all essential when it comes to keeping up with DDA Compliance.
As well as that, you have fire risk assessments and commercial ventilation standards that will need to be upheld.
The Fitout Process: Step-by-Step
If you’re wondering how the fitout process works for a pub’s interior, then it’s worth knowing what to expect before you move forward with it as an owner or developer. Let’s break down the process.
- Briefing and discovery
This is the first step and often one that takes between one and two weeks, depending on time and availability. As an owner or developer, it’s time to establish your goals for the pub fitout and to identify workflows.
- Design and costing
From 3D visuals to floor plans and itemised quotes, the design and costing stage takes anywhere between 2 and 4 weeks.
You must find the right design software and teams that will be able to undertake all of these requirements and give you accuracy in quotes and timelines. Picking the right pub fitout services will ensure you’ve spent your money wisely and that the investment will be long-lasting, rather than going for someone who is cheap and cheerful but uses poor-quality materials.
- Strip-out and demolition
Clearing the space is the next stage, as you need to essentially get rid of everything and just keep the shell of the building intact.
This should only take a few days, but it may be longer depending on the size of the pub itself and whether any problems are uncovered during demolition, of course.
- First fix – infrastructure
The first fix is the infrastructure that’s built into the shell of the pub. From electrical to plumbing and HVAC installation, it’s all the core essentials your pub needs to function comfortably for guests.
- Second fix – finishes
The second fix is all the finishes made to the fitout. From the joinery to bar construction and flooring, it’s the last big step before all of the furnishings and fixtures are added in.
- Furniture, fixtures, and equipment
Talking of which, the last step of the fitout will be adding all of the above to the space. From the tables and chairs to the EPOS systems. These are all the final touches before opening your doors again or for the first time.
Maximising Revenue through Fitout
Revenue can be maximised through the layout and design of the fitout. The use of multi-functional spaces, for example, helps to provide that transition from daytime family dining to lively bar environments at night.
Consider outdoor extensions like courtyards and roof terraces to expand capacity. Tech-ready venues are essential, too, helping integrate essential tech for modern consumers to utilise.
You must provide staff training on all the new and relevant equipment and processes required to get them used to the new space. Early engagement with specialist fitout contractors is key, and it’s worth getting a few quotes before deciding on the one you want to go with.
