At Solico Metal, we understand that businesses in the restaurant industry need to maximize their space to thrive. In 2021, we had the opportunity to help a café in Sunridge, Calgary NE, overcome space limitations. We were tasked with creating a solution to add more guest space while maintaining the functionality of their kitchen.
The Challenge: Expanding a Small Café
The café faced a common challenge: the need for more space. They required additional room to serve guests without compromising kitchen operations. Specifically, they wanted to add an upper floor for dining and free up kitchen space below.
Solico’s Solution: Adding Vertical Space with a Structural Mezzanine
To address this challenge, Solico Metal designed and installed a structural mezzanine, making the most of the café’s vertical space. This solution allowed for the creation of a dedicated guest seating area on the upper floor while expanding the kitchen space underneath.
By adding vertical space, we were able to give the café the room it needed to enhance its dining experience and increase its capacity without the need for costly building expansions.
Materials and Expertise
For this project, we utilized structural steel for the mezzanine framework, ensuring durability and strength. The flooring consisted of a steel deck combined with a resin board, which was both fire-resistant and compliant with Alberta’s building code. This combination provided a safe, long-lasting solution that met the café’s needs for space and safety.
The Results: Improved Capacity and Workflow
With the new mezzanine in place, the café was able to increase its seating capacity, improving guest flow and creating a more comfortable dining experience. Additionally, the expanded kitchen area underneath allowed for better workflow and efficiency.
As a result, the café saw a significant improvement in service speed and customer satisfaction. The added space allowed them to serve more guests without sacrificing kitchen productivity, ultimately leading to greater profitability.
Need to Maximize Space in Your Business?
If you’re facing space challenges like this café, Solico Metal has the expertise to help. Whether it’s structural mezzanines, custom builds, or innovative steel solutions, we can provide the extra room you need to grow your business.
