If you're thinking about opening a restaurant in Madrid, one of the first questions that comes to mind is: How much will the design cost me? And the honest answer is: it depends. But don't worry, in this article we're going to break down everything you need to know to budget your interior design and branding project without surprises.

Why design is not an expense, it's an investment

Before we get into the numbers, it's important to understand something: your restaurant's design isn't just "decoration." It's the experience you're going to sell, the reason a customer will choose your place over the one next door, and the foundation upon which you'll build your brand identity.

A well-designed restaurant can increase your average check by up to 30%, improve table turnover, and become an "Instagrammable" space that promotes itself. In other words: design pays for itself.

Breakdown of costs by area

1. Interior design project (€15,000 – €40,000)

This includes the complete conceptualization of the space:

• Briefing analysis and feasibility study: Understand your concept, target audience, and venue restrictions
• Conceptual design3D renders, floor plans, mood boards
• Technical project: Executive drawings, materials report, measurements
• Construction managementMonitoring and coordination with contractors

The range varies depending on the complexity of the project. An 80m² gastrobar is not the same as a 200m² restaurant with an open kitchen.

2. Construction work (€300 – €1,200 per m²)

This is where the real costs of transforming the space come in:

• Basic work (€300-€500/m²): Paint, basic flooring, functional lighting, simple furniture
• Average work (€500-€800/m²): Custom carpentry, medium-high quality materials, designer lighting, semi-custom furniture
• Premium work (€800-€1,200+/m²): Exclusive materials, everything custom-made, architectural lighting, designer furniture

Real exampleA 120m² restaurant in Malasaña with medium-high finishes could cost around €72,000-€96,000 to complete.

3. Brand identity (€5,000 – €20,000)

Your restaurant needs more than a pretty logo:

• Basic Branding (€5,000-€8,000): Logo, color palette, fonts, basic manual
• Complete branding (€8,000-€15,000): All of the above + applications (menus, uniforms, signage, packaging), olfactory/musical identity
• Strategic Branding (€15,000-€20,000+): Includes naming, positioning strategy, storytelling, launch campaign

4. Digital presence (€3,000 – €15,000)

In 2026, if you're not online, you don't exist:

• Basic web (€3,000-€5,000): Landing page with essential information, bookings, social media integration
• Full website (€5,000-€10,000): Website optimized for conversion, integrated booking system, blog, multilingual
• Premium digital experience (€10,000-€15,000+): All of the above + professional photography content, video, initial digital marketing

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Total ranges by project type

EXPRESS Project (€40,000 – €70,000)

Ideal for small premises (50-80m²) with a functional design but without extravagant features. Perfect for first projects or upscale street food concepts.

Includes:

• Basic interior design
• Execution with standard materials
• Essential Branding
• Basic web

COMPLETE Project (€70,000 – €150,000)

The standard for restaurants of 80-150m² looking to stand out. Here we are already talking about a solid interior design project with a defined identity.

Includes:

• Interior design with a clear concept
• Execution with quality materials
• Complete branding with applications
• Website optimized for conversion
• Professional photography of the space

PREMIUM Project (€150,000 – €300,000+)

For ambitious gastronomic concepts, large premises (150m²+) or prime locations where competition is high. Everything is custom-designed.

Includes:

• Interior design with exclusive features
• Premium materials and impeccable finishes
• Strategic branding with launch campaign
• Complete digital experience
• Art direction and photographic/video content
• Digital marketing for the launch

Factors that most impact the price

Location of the premisesIt doesn't cost the same to renovate in Chamberí as it does in an industrial park. Permits, accessibility for construction work, and the neighborhood's standards all play a role.

Initial state of the premisesIs it an empty shell or does a previous business need to be dismantled? Demolition and remediation could take up 20% of the construction budget.

PersonalizationThe more "custom-made," the more expensive. Catalog furniture versus custom carpentry can double the costs.

Licensing and permissionsIn Madrid, depending on the activity and the district, permits can take 3-6 months and cost between €5,000-€15,000 in fees and technical projects.

TemporalityIf you need to open "yesterday," be prepared to pay rush fees. Suppliers charge more for express jobs.

Common mistakes that inflate the budget

1. Not having a clear concept from the beginning Changing your mind mid-project significantly increases costs. Each modification on-site can add 10-30% to the budget.

2. Choosing the wrong place A cheap premises that requires heavy construction work can end up being more expensive than a more expensive one that is "ready to move in".

3. Skimping on planning Not hiring a good interior design project to "save money" ends up being very expensive when things have to be redone or the layout doesn't work.

4. Not setting aside a budget for unforeseen events The golden rule: add an extra 15-20% for unexpected expenses. There always are.

How to optimize your investment

Prioritize what the customer seesInvest more in the dining area and facade than in the kitchen (obviously without neglecting functionality).

Looking for a comprehensive partner?Working with a studio that does interior design + branding + web design is usually more efficient (and cheaper) than coordinating three different providers.

Design for photographyBy 2026, your restaurant needs to look good on Instagram. A photogenic space generates free marketing.

Think in phasesIf the budget is tight, start with the essentials done well and improve in 6-12 months when there is cash flow.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the entire process take? From the initial briefing to opening: 4-8 months on average. Design usually takes 1-2 months, construction 2-4 months, and then permits and commissioning.

Can I design the restaurant myself to save money? You can, but it's like doing surgery on yourself. You'll save on the designer's fees, but you'll probably spend more on revisions and lose operational efficiency. Good design pays for itself in the first year.

What professionals do I need to hire? At a minimum: architect/interior designer, construction contractor, electrician, plumber. Ideally also: graphic designer, photographer, web developer.

Are furniture and equipment included in these costs? Basic furnishings (tables, chairs, lighting) are usually included in the construction cost. Professional kitchen equipment is separate: an additional €20,000-€60,000 depending on size and design.

Ready to take the plunge?

If you're thinking about designing your restaurant and want us to guide you through the process, from EOLOS We can help you turn your vision into a space that works and inspires.

Conclusion: Invest wisely, not fearfully

Designing a restaurant in Madrid in 2026 isn't cheap, but it doesn't have to break the bank either. With a budget of €70,000-€100,000 for a medium-sized establishment, you can create a competitive and attractive space.

The key is:

1. Have a clear concept from day one
2. Work with professionals who understand your vision
3. Invest where it really matters: in the customer experience
4. Don't skimp on planning (it will save you a lot of money later)

Remember: your restaurant doesn't just compete on food, it competes on experiences. And a good experience starts with good design.

Projects that inspire

In EOLOS Design Lab We design hospitality spaces that generate memorable experiences and measurable results.

Do you want to see our work?

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