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Best Paint Colours for Restaurants in 2025

When designing a restaurant, the ambiance you create can significantly influence your customers’ experience. Paint colours play a vital role in setting the tone and mood of your establishment. In 2025, restaurant owners in New Zealand are leaning towards colour schemes that not only attract customers but also enhance their dining experience. 

From modern neutrals to bold and inviting tones, this Jim’s Painting guide will help you choose the best paint colours for your restaurant’s interior and exterior.

Why Paint Colours Matter for Restaurants

The colours you choose for your restaurant go beyond aesthetics. They can evoke emotions, influence appetite, and even impact how long customers stay. For example, vibrant colours like red and orange are known to stimulate appetite, while calming tones like green and blue create a relaxed dining environment. Selecting the right restaurant wall paint colours ensures that your space aligns with your brand and leaves a lasting impression on diners.

Best Paint Colours for Restaurant Interiors in 2025

1. Warm Neutrals – The Modern Classic

Warm neutrals like taupe, beige, and soft greys remain timeless choices. These colours provide a welcoming and versatile backdrop for various interior styles, from minimalist to rustic. They pair beautifully with wood accents and soft lighting, creating a cosy yet sophisticated atmosphere.

2. Earthy Greens –  Embracing Nature

Shades of sage, olive, and moss green are trending for restaurant interiors in 2025. These hues promote relaxation and balance, making them ideal for establishments focusing on healthy, sustainable, or plant-based cuisine. Earthy greens also pair well with natural textures like stone and wood.

3. Terracotta and Deep Reds – Bold and Inviting

Rich terracotta tones and deep reds are perfect for creating a warm and intimate dining space. These colours are especially effective in restaurants serving Italian, Mexican, or Mediterranean cuisine, as they evoke a sense of tradition and passion.

4. Soft Blues – Tranquil and Relaxing

Soft blues, such as powder blue or sky blue, add a calming touch to restaurant interiors. These colours work well in seafood restaurants or waterfront establishments, complementing ocean views and coastal themes.

5. Black and Charcoal: Modern Elegance

For upscale restaurants or chic cafés, black and charcoal grey can add a sense of drama and sophistication. Use these colours strategically as accent walls or in combination with metallic finishes like gold or copper for a luxurious feel.

Best Restaurant Paint Colours for Exteriors in 2025

1. Neutral Whites and Off-Whites

Neutral whites, such as alabaster or ivory, remain popular choices for restaurant exteriors. These colours offer a clean and timeless look that appeals to a wide audience. Pair with bold signage or colourful landscaping for added curb appeal.

2. Soft Pastels

Pastel shades like mint green, blush pink, or pale lavender can make your restaurant stand out while maintaining a welcoming and approachable vibe. These colours are especially effective for dessert shops, cafés, or family-friendly eateries.

3. Bold and Vibrant Colours

Make a statement with bold hues like deep red, navy blue, or mustard yellow. These colours attract attention and convey a sense of energy and excitement. Ensure the bold tones align with your restaurant’s brand identity to create a cohesive look.

4. Earthy Tones for Natural Appeal

Earthy tones like ochre, sandstone, or clay are ideal for blending your restaurant seamlessly into its surroundings, particularly in outdoor or suburban settings. These colours exude warmth and authenticity.

Choosing the Best Paint Colours for Your Restaurant

Factors to Consider

  1. Your Restaurant’s Theme
    Your theme plays a significant role in determining the right paint colours. For example, a modern bistro might benefit from sleek neutrals, while a tropical café could lean towards bright and playful tones.
  2. Lighting
    Natural and artificial lighting can dramatically affect how colours appear. Test paint samples at different times of the day to ensure your chosen colours look consistent.
  3. Target Audience
    Consider your target audience when selecting colours. Families may prefer warm, inviting tones, while millennials and professionals might be drawn to trendy, modern palettes.
  4. Brand Identity
    Your restaurant’s colours should align with your brand’s personality. Vibrant and bold colours convey energy and fun, while muted tones suggest sophistication and calm.

How to Use Paint Colours Strategically in Restaurants

  1. Create Zones
    Use different colours to define zones within your restaurant, such as dining areas, lounges, and bar spaces. This approach can enhance the overall functionality and aesthetic appeal.
  2. Accent Walls
    Incorporate an accent wall to add depth and interest. Popular choices for accent colours in 2025 include terracotta, navy blue, and emerald green.
  3. Ceilings Matter
    Don’t overlook the ceiling—painted ceilings in bold or contrasting colours can add a unique touch to your restaurant’s design.
  4. Exterior and Interior Coordination
    Ensure that your exterior and interior paint colours complement each other. A cohesive colour scheme creates a seamless transition for customers.

Trends in Restaurant Paint Colours for 2025

Biophilic Design

Natural and organic colours like greens, browns, and tans are inspired by the biophilic design trend. These colours connect diners to nature and enhance feelings of well-being.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Options

Environmentally conscious restaurants are opting for low-VOC and sustainable paints in earthy tones. These choices align with eco-friendly values and appeal to environmentally aware customers.

Monochromatic Schemes

Monochromatic colour schemes using shades of the same colour are gaining traction. For example, pairing light and dark greens creates a harmonious and stylish look.

Custom Branding Colours

Restaurants are increasingly incorporating custom brand colours into their paint choices, ensuring a unique and recognizable identity.

Conclusion

Selecting the best paint colours for your restaurant in 2025 involves balancing aesthetics, functionality, and branding. Whether you prefer earthy greens, warm neutrals, or bold exterior hues, the right colours can elevate your restaurant’s appeal and leave a lasting impression on your customers.

Ready to transform your restaurant with a fresh coat of paint? Trust the experts at Jim’s Painting NZ to bring your vision to life. With our professional team and high-quality commercial painting services, we’ll ensure your restaurant looks its best, inside and out. Call us today at 0800-454-654 to discuss your painting needs!

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