Enclosing Your Outdoor Event Space: Increased Capacity, Increased Revenue

Is it really that easy?

For owners, the more seating available the more revenue it allows. Outdoor dining has been a popular option, enclosed outdoor options design has given the industry a chance to continue to serve its customers in a new and exciting way. Commercial moving glass walls and patio cover systems are flexible, structural solutions that enable wide seamless transitions to outdoor seating. However, there are some things to consider first.

Things to Consider

What is the purpose?

• Are you looking to add seating / table capacity in appropriate weather?

• Are you trying to provide an alternative experience to your indoor dining rooms?

• Are you seeking an opportunity to host private / semi-private parties?

• Are you thinking of the outdoor space(s) as an extension of your bar experience?

• Are you expecting to use this space four, six, nine or 12 months of the year?

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What makes a great outdoor dining environment?

There are three:

1. Varied scenery and experiences; people seek an outdoor dining experience. The visual and audible surroundings drastically impact the experience. Strong views of nature, people-watching along pedestrian boulevards, or focused views towards live entertainment, TVs, landscaping, or other focal elements give the dining environment unique character.

2. Weather control; which may not seem very profound, but outdoor dining often has an inherent draw simply because it's not inside. While the average person spends the majority of their day indoors, often staring at a computer screen, the outdoors open-up the beauty and splendor of all that mother nature has to offer, which is sometimes poor weather.

3. Great service; no one wants to feel like they’ve been forgotten about because the outdoor patio is too far for staff to travel effectively.

Best in class options when creating an outdoor dining space

Airia retractable louver system and patio cover:

These systems tend to be higher have a higher upfront cost, however, they more than make up for the initial cost in longevity, energy savings and in occupant enjoyment.

GLIDE - Frameless Multi Slide Systems

The GLIDE is a glass operable wall with sliding sections. The frameless attribute allows for clear vies throughout the restaurant.

• Durable Aluminum, Glass & Stainless Steel construction

• Simple automated operation 

• Superior service life, avoid costly replacements 

• Option for zero corner application 

• Bottom Locks 

• Bi-Part Configuration Option 

• Panels are secure & cannot be lifted or fall out 

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Vertaslide - Vertical operable walls

Vertical operable glass system:

• Configurations to create either a railing or a door - slide up or down

• Increased thermal performance available with low-e glass

• Minimal frame for maximum view

• Meets wind load ratings and other building code requirements

• Low sill available for minimal interruption to foot traffic

• Safety features to ensure stability

• Belt or chain option for different applications

• Large-scale panels available for big openings and minimal stile interruptions

• Accessible panels for easy cleaning

• Automation with a click of a button, eliminating unnecessary risk of user error

The key takeaways are outdoor spaces can increase seating capacity and therefore revenue, however, its success is critically linked to the operation and service. Increased revenue is good, but not at the expense of a positive guest experience.