Restaurant Design

design

Viva Mexico! Decorating Ideas to Steal From Tulum

Chilled out tourists and hipster expats flock to Tulum, Mexico, but not just for its clear Caribbean waters and ancient Mayan sites.

Chilled out tourists and hipster expats flock to Tulum, Mexico, but not just for its clear Caribbean waters and ancient Mayan sites. The remote destination, about two hours south of Cancún, also offers a distinctive seaside aesthetic where the beach meets the ocean. In the well-traveled hotel zone, traditional oceanside elements like straw roofs collide with restaurants that feel more like enchanted forest groves. On a recent visit, I couldn't stop snapping photos for decorating inspiration. Check out seven ideas to steal from Tulum's outdoor decor.

News

Burger King Gets a Makeover

While one fast food chain is temporarily closing stores, another has begun remodeling them.

While one fast food chain is temporarily closing stores, another has begun remodeling them. Hoping a facelift will invigorate sales, Burger King announced a major effort to redesign its 12,000 worldwide locations.

Burger King is betting that rotating red flame chandeliers, LCD menus, and corrugated metal and brick walls will encourage customers to sit down and enjoy a meal rather than simply passing through.According to Chairman and CEO John Chidsey, who describes the overhaul as "contemporary, edgy, futuristic . . . like an upscale restaurant," the 60 outlets that have already been revamped have generated 12 to 15 percent more sales.

The "20/20" design transformation, as it's called, is a huge risk for Burger King. The overhaul will take several years to complete worldwide, and will cost franchisees a whopping $300,000 to $600,000 per restaurant. Check out new store pictures. Could a redesign coax you into buying more BK?