Frequently Asked Questions | Restaurant Designer Raymond Haldeman
Why do I need to hire a bar or restaurant designer?
Most clients who've hired a designer point to the same three reasons they'd do it again:
A cohesive, memorable space. A good designer's touch gives your space an integrated feel and a level of professional execution that's difficult to achieve without training — regardless of how "creative" you or your team may be.
It saves money in the long run. Hiring a designer costs money, and experienced talent comes at a premium — but dollar for dollar, it prevents the costly mistakes, poor planning, and wrong materials that often come from an inexperienced decorator (frequently the owner's spouse or a friend of the family). Those mistakes tend to cost far more in repairs and replacements than the original design fee would have.
Your space is your brand. Your restaurant, bar, or nightclub is the product. A polished presentation — with genuine wow-factor and functional efficiency — goes a long way toward building that brand.
I've always thought about hiring a restaurant designer, but aren't they expensive?
Yes and no. Reputable hospitality design consultants with a proven, documented track record — like Raymond Haldeman's — do cost money. However, Raymond has built his reputation among independent operators specifically because his services are financially within reach. He doesn't carry the overhead of a large design firm with a fancy office and junior designers who'd likely be assigned to your project — Raymond is the design firm, and you work directly with him.
His clients consistently report that his contributions directly and promptly generate additional revenue — often enough to cover the cost of his services through the added cash flow he creates during the renovation, plus the savings realized during construction, before the doors even open.
How long will I need to engage a designer or consultant's services?
There's no set timetable. Raymond assesses your needs based on the information you provide and what he observes on-site. The time required naturally corresponds to the scope of the job and your own timeline and plans.
So, how much can I expect to pay?
Every proposal is based on your specific needs and the value of the intellectual contribution involved in the conceptual rebranding or presentation. Interior design work is priced based on square footage and the extent of the renovation — and fees are always adjusted to fit your needs.
Raymond also offers an Assessment Package for clients who want to start somewhere but aren't ready to fully commit to a designer yet. This includes two days on-site with Raymond, answering your questions, laying out your space, and delivering an accurate floor plan and set of plans. Every client who's used this assessment has said some version of the same thing: "I sure got my money's worth."
Raymond also offers a free 15-minute phone consultation to anyone — a lot of ground can be covered in that time, and you'll walk away with a clear range for what your project would cost.
How long does it take to arrange for you to take me on as a client?
Most clients call well in advance of their actual timeline. That said, Raymond can plan an on-site assessment consultation during your very first phone call, so he can hit the ground running when he arrives. For interior design consulting, the exact timeline depends on your project's scope — but his rule is to have a proposal in your hands within 24 hours of the on-site assessment.
Will I be dealing with Raymond Haldeman directly?
Yes. Raymond is personally involved in every job — every decision, design, and strategy is created by him, with you. He's hands-on throughout, always available to speak with you directly, and will conduct site visits and work directly with your contractors to answer questions and resolve details. This saves you money and eliminates the miscommunication and costly mistakes that come from working through a layer of staff.
How do I get started?
If you need immediate assistance, call 1-866-735-3582 now. Or fill out the short consulting submission form, and Raymond will contact you within 24 hours.
