About Industrial Kitchen Spaces
Industrial kitchen spaces are ideal event venues, particularly when hosting larger gatherings. These spaces often incorporate exposed brick walls, pipes, ductwork, and other industrial elements. Typically featuring large open areas for guests to move around, these kitchens also provide plenty of room for food preparation and serving. Modern lighting fixtures, custom cabinetry, and stainless-steel appliances can create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Combining edgy accents with chic furnishings creates a unique ambiance that will appeal to any event planner.
Depending on their preference, industrial kitchen spaces are typically equipped with indoor and outdoor seating options so guests can enjoy the space inside or out. This is a great benefit for events requiring indoor and outdoor settings, such as cocktail receptions or outdoor dinner parties. Depending on the size of the space, an industrial kitchen may also have amenities such as bar seating or a lounge area where people can gather before or after their meal. Hosts will appreciate having access to top-of-the-line cooking equipment suitable for large quantities of food preparation. At the same time, guests can rest assured knowing they are enjoying freshly prepared dishes in a safe environment.
The Best Events for Industrial Kitchen Spaces
- Corporate Team Building
A space featuring an industrial kitchen is a great option for corporate team-building events due to the combination of collaboration, problem-solving, and cooking that can be involved. Participants can work in teams to create a dish, tackling various tasks such as chopping vegetables, following a recipe, using kitchen tools and utensils, and plating dishes. The event could also feature activities such as timed challenges or demonstrations by professional chefs.
- Food Network Competitions
Industrial kitchen space is perfect for hosting food network competitions or shows due to its larger capacity than other kitchens and its professional equipment, allowing participants to cook with greater speed and efficiency. This event requires skillful cooks who understand kitchen techniques and are often presented with specific challenges, such as creating dishes within time limits or with unique ingredients.
- Cooking Classes
An industrial kitchen offers the perfect space for passionate chefs or aspiring home cooks to hone their skills in a professional atmosphere. This can include individual or group classes that teach cooking basics or more complex recipes and hands-on demonstrations from guest chefs and bakers. The industrial kitchen also has ample counter space and large appliances to accommodate larger groups of students.
- Photo Shoots
Industrial kitchens can also be used as a setting for photoshoots due to their modern aesthetic and unique charm. The edgy and chic decor, the stainless steel appliances, and the large open areas create a perfect backdrop for food photography or videos. Lighting can be adjusted easily and the props provided can help create various looks for any photo session, from product photography to fashion editorials.
What to Look for in Industrial Kitchen Spaces
- Size
The size of the industrial kitchen should be based on the number of guests you plan on accommodating. Ensure that the kitchen is big enough to house all necessary equipment, supplies, and any required personnel. Additionally, take into account any special accommodations such as extra ovens or culinary stations when considering the size.
- Equipment
It’s important to ensure all necessary kitchen equipment is provided at the venue, such as gas and electric stoves, fryers, ovens, refrigerators, and freezers (if needed). Additionally, stainless steel countertops are beneficial due to their easy upkeep and ability to withstand high temperatures without damage.
- Cleanliness
Cleanliness is paramount when it comes to catering food at an event. Not only does it affect how food is prepared and how safe it is for consumption. Ensure that the facility has appropriate sanitation protocols in place and maintains high levels of hygiene at all times by having frequent inspections conducted by health officials or local authorities before reserving a space.
- Ventilation
Proper ventilation is essential in any industrial kitchen as it helps control odors and smoke from cooking activities. Ensure the space has exhaust fans installed so that air can circulate properly, resulting in healthier air quality for staff and guests alike.
How to Make Industrial Kitchen Events Better
- Consider the layout of the industrial kitchen
Consider any existing furniture and equipment, and think about how it can be arranged to encourage mingling and smooth food service. Try to have multiple stations for buffet-style service, so guests can move around the space freely and get food quickly.
- Enhance the atmosphere with creative decoration
Industrial kitchens often have dull walls or exposed pipes, so add color with bright tablecloths, wall hangings, or lights to make them more inviting. Add some natural elements to the space, such as plants or flowers, to break up the monotony of a drab room filled with metal fixtures and hard surfaces.
- Choose an appropriate menu for the event
Stick to dishes easily prepared in large quantities, such as sandwiches, salads, or simple sides like roasted potatoes or grilled vegetables. This will cut down on preparation time in an already busy kitchen space. Also, try to offer at least one vegetarian option for those who prefer not to eat meat.
- Make sure there is enough staff on hand
Depending on the size of your event, you may need additional help preparing food and serving guests during peak times. Consider hiring servers or caterers if you expect many people at your event.
- Provide entertainment options throughout the night
Live music or stand-up comedy are great ways to keep guests engaged while eating. Just ensure they aren’t playing too loudly over conversations so everyone can still hear each other without raising their voices. TVs also work well for showing sports games or movies throughout the night if you want a more relaxed evening option for your guests.