Commercial Kitchen Design Process: a Step-By-Step Guide

Sleek, chef-driven kitchens at Club Versante, designed by CRS to fit multiple concepts in tight quarters.

Opening or upgrading your Canadian commercial kitchen design should be an exciting experience, not a confusing one. One of the first choices you will need to make is:

“Who will help us design and install our new kitchen, and what does that process look like?”

For over 2 decades, Canadian Restaurant Supply (CRS) has been working with a wide range of industries, from hospitals to fine dining establishments. The guide in this article walks you through the CRS design and installation process in plain language, helping you make informed decisions. Learn what to prepare, how the design review works, when installation starts, and what happens after handoff.

How to Get Started with Canadian Restaurant Supply

Before you contact us, it helps to gather a few basics.

• A short menu and your busiest hour.

• A simple floor plan or sketch.

• Utility details, if available (gas, electrical, water, and drains).

• Any notes or restrictions from your landlord or local health authority.
  
  

On your first discovery call, CRS will ask about:

• Your concept, dine in, takeout, or both.

• Peak volume and staffing.

• Budget range and target opening date.

• Existing equipment you want to keep or replace.
  
  

Pro Tip: Assign one decision maker for approvals. Fast, consistent decisions keep drawings and orders moving.

Will Someone Visit the Site?

Yes, site verification is standard. Depending on location, CRS may visit early to confirm measurements and utilities, or coordinate with a local general contractor for a documented site check. Tight doorways, ceiling height, and duct paths affect layout and delivery planning, so early verification helps avoid surprises.

How Long Does the Design Phase Usually Take?

Expect multiple reviews after the intake and scope are set.

Review 1: preliminary layout
You will see a first pass at the floor plan and equipment zoning. This confirms flow and major choices.

Review 2: refined layout and specifications
You will receive a polished plan with equipment schedules, cut sheets, and utility loads. Please approve in writing so that purchasing can begin.

Review 3+: We will continue honing the design until you are happy with the result

The typical duration is two to six weeks, based on scope and responsiveness. Early selection of long lead items, especially hoods, refrigeration, and custom fabrication, helps lock the schedule.

What Software CRS Uses and What You Will See

CRS designs in AutoCAD, a precise digital drafting system that converts your concept into clear, buildable drawings. You will see an easy-to-review floor plan with equipment labels, dimensions, and traffic flow, as well as utility callouts for gas, power, water, and drains. AutoCAD keeps everyone aligned, from landlords to inspectors to tradespeople.

Here’s the simple bundle you can expect from CRS when designs are done in AutoCAD:

• PDF plan set, easy to read and share, floor plan with labels and dimensions.
  

• CAD files, DWG or DXF, for your architect and trades to coordinate.
  

• Equipment schedule, list of each item with model, size, and utility needs.
  

• Utility sheets, where gas, power, water, and drains should go.
  

• Key cut sheets, manufacturer PDFs with clearances and install notes.
  

• Revisions when needed, updated PDFs so everyone stays on the latest version.
  
  

From Approval to Installation

Ordering and scheduling
Once you approve the design, CRS orders equipment and confirms dates with your GC and trades. Lead times vary by category. Hoods, refrigeration, and custom stainless steel often drive the timeline.

Pre-install readiness
One to two weeks before delivery, confirm access, loading, working hours, floor and wall protection, and inspection dates. Verify rough-ins against the latest drawings.

On-site

1. Delivery and staging, items are checked and placed near the final locations.
   

2. Set and secure, equipment is levelled, anchored, sealed, and aligned to utilities.
   

3. Utility connections, licensed trades connect gas, electrical, water, and drains.
   

4. Commissioning, ventilation is balanced, refrigeration is started, and basic training is provided.
   

A typical installation takes one to three weeks once the equipment is on site. Larger or phased jobs may take longer to complete.

Who Oversees Coordination

CRS project managers coordinate with general contractors and trades and can support Canadian kitchen design projects. For remote locations, CRS will confirm travel, local partnerships, and responsibilities. If a full-time project manager's presence is not required, you will receive clear checklists and a schedule with defined owners for each step.

Trades model
CRS partners with qualified local trades, brings in specialist crews when needed, or uses a blended approach. The goal is the right team for code compliance and on-time delivery.

After Handoff, Support and the First 30 Days

You receive manuals, warranties, maintenance schedules, and service contracts. Train the closing shift on cleaning and daily checks. If something seems off, take a photo, note the model number, and call right away. Early fixes are faster and protect warranties.

Quick Checklist to Consider Before You Contact CRS

• Menu summary and peak covers per hour

• Floor plan or site sketch

• Gas, electrical, water, and drain details, if available

• Target opening date and budget range

• Decision maker and project contacts

• File preference, PDFs for daily use, CAD or BIM for coordination

Ready to Move from Idea to Install

Book a design consultation to receive a clear plan, an accurate timeline, and the best restaurant equipment for your space.

Helpful links:
Planning and Design Services, https://www.canadianrestaurantsupply.com/planning-and-design/services.html
About CRS, https://www.canadianrestaurantsupply.com/company/about-us.html

Canadian Restaurant Supply assists restaurants and commercial kitchens in planning, equipping, and installing high-performance back-of-house spaces throughout Canada. Contact Canadian Restaurant Services to get started.