With season four of “The Bear” now streaming on Hulu, we’re thinking about restaurants again. Are you looking to revamp your Chicago restaurant interior? Or are you just obsessed with great design? Either way, there’s a movement sweeping through the Windy Cityand it’s redefining how we eat, gather, and experience space. At Jordan Guide Design, we’re at the forefront of this evolution, where the grit of industrial restaurant design in Chicago is merging beautifully with the calm of biophilic interiors.

Welcome to the new era of Industrial Biophilia, a look that’s as grounded in Chicago’s architectural DNA as it is forward-thinking and serene.

The Backbone: Industrial Design in Chicago Restaurants

There’s something honest about industrial design; it’s raw, refined, and unapologetically urban. Chicago practically invented it.

Think:

• Exposed brick walls that whisper stories from decades past
• Steel beams and metal accents that echo the city’s industrial roots
• Concrete flooring paired with warm reclaimed wood tables that balance cool minimalism with comfort
• Edison bulbs and black matte pendant lighting that glow like a noir film set

This aesthetic isn’t going anywhere; it’s durable, timeless, and always Instagram-worthy.

Enter Biophilic Design: A Breath of Fresh Air, Literally

Now, layer in the biophilic design trend. Think less “plant in the corner” and more “urban jungle oasis.”

Biophilia brings the outdoors in, helping diners feel more grounded, relaxed, and connected to their surroundings. And in a high-energy food scene like Chicago’s, it’s a welcome pause.

Features we love:

• Living walls that thrive against concrete or brick backdrops
• Skylights and glass panels that flood the space with natural light
• Textured, organic materials like stone, linen, and warm wood
• Statement plants (Monstera, Fiddle Leaf Fig, or Olive trees) placed like sculptures
• Subtle water features that bring a spa-like calm to your dining room

Discover more about biophilic design principles and their impact on customer psychology.

Merging Styles: How to Nail the Industrial Biophilic Look

Here’s where the magic happens. The contrast between hard and soft, steel and moss, grit and growth is what makes Chicago restaurant interiors come alive in 2025.

Some of our go-to design strategies:

• Pair a steel bar with a vertical herb garden
• Use natural wood banquettes beneath oversized factory windows
• Set lush greenery against weathered brick for a bold, modern vibe
• Add natural fiber textiles like jute, cotton, or linen to balance colder surfaces

This is more than a design trend; it’s a strategic approach to guest experience. People linger longer, post more, and remember restaurants that feel good, not just look good.

Are you considering an upgrade for your space? Our team can help. Explore our restaurant interior design services in Chicago.

Why It Matters for Chicago Restaurateurs

The dining scene is competitive. A memorable interior can be the difference between a quick bite and a loyal following. Blending industrial chic with biophilic calm helps set your restaurant apart visually, emotionally, and experientially.

When guests feel good, they stay longer. They come back. And they tell their friends.

Ready to Redesign?

At Jordan Guide Design, we specialize in bespoke Chicago restaurant interiors that reflect your brand, honor the city’s roots, and leave a lasting impression on guests long after they’ve finished their dessert.

Want a design that draws a crowd and keeps them coming back?

📞 Contact us today to schedule your consultation.