


The layout feels awkward; circulation is clunky.
The atmosphere doesn’t match the brand; it looks generic.
Your budget or timeline gets strained because of change-orders or construction delays.
You’re worried the “venue” will feel like just another place rather than a destination.
At Barker Nestor, we believe: anyone can design something trendy. But not everyone can design something with heart.
We’ve been in the hospitality and entertainment design space for decades. Firms, restaurants, hotels, multi-unit roll-outs—we’ve done the full range.
We listen deeply. Its more than “what you want the space to look like.” It’s what you want it to feel like, how people move, how staff perform, how guests respond.
We translate your vision into architecture. Conceptual design, renderings, layout optimization, finish selections—everything aligned with your brand and operational needs.
We stay with you through implementation. Construction documents. Construction Oversight. Follow-through. Because design without execution is just ideas.
We create spaces that work and delight. Efficient service flow + compelling ambiance = venues people talk about.
Picture this: A guest walks in at opening night. The lighting drops subtly as they move past the bar into the dining area. The acoustics allow conversation but not echo. The finishes feel premium, the brand is unmistakable. The staff work smoothly behind the scenes. The result? An experience that feels effortless. You get a space that not only looks right—it feels right.
More than 500+ restaurants, multiple venues, coast-to-coast across the U.S. in the hospitality-entertainment field.
Experts at both individual bespoke projects and chain or roll-out formats. Barker/Nestor
End-to-end service: from concept through construction oversight.
A design philosophy: “spaces that listen & speak” — meaning we craft architecture that responds, communicates, and enhances.


Cafes


Nightlife





Partner With
Here’s what happens when you say “Yes, let’s build something with soul.”
Free discovery consultation: We’ll review your concept, goals, pain-points (layout, brand, flow, budget) and map a high-level strategy for your space.
Custom design roadmap for your venue: After our discussion we’ll deliver a tailored roadmap — layout sketch, finish inspiration, timeline and cost-perspectives. You’ll see how your idea translates into architecture that works.
Dedicated team as your partner: From design through construction oversight, you have architects who know hospitality — not just space but service, not just aesthetics but operations.
Clarity & confidence: You walk away knowing exactly how your venue will feel, how it will function, and how we’ll bring it to life.
Partnering with Barker Nestor Means Real Business Growth
Opening a new hospitality space can be complex — but Barker Nestor makes it seamless.
We help you launch faster through efficient design and permitting. Your brand shines with tailored architecture that captivates guests while maintaining operational flow and efficiency.
Our project managers protect your budget, ensuring every dollar delivers value.
And when it’s time to stand out in a crowded market, our creative designs ensure your space is as memorable as the experiences you deliver.


“Barker Nestor is so passionate about what they do. You can’t stop it from spreading to the whole team.”
Celebrity Chef

“I have been working with Katherine and Ryan for over 15 years and I can’t imagine doing a project without them. They are one of the only design firms out there that are truly collaborative and love what they do.”
Luke Stoioff
DineAmic Group

“I was the COO at Morongo and hired Barker Nestor to overhaul our old buffet into a food hall with Fabio Viviani. Ryan and Katherine knocked it out of the park. Over delivered at every turn.”
Richard St.Jean
Morongo Gaming

“I’ve been working with Barker Nestor on every project we’ve done since 2009 - including some very tricky, high-profile Chicago projects at Wrigley Field, Water Tower Place, & Navy Pier. They not only do great design work, they have the soft skills needed to get hard things done in Chicago. I’ve called Ryan the smartest guy in the room on more than one occasion.”
Grant DePorter
Harry Carry’s Restaurant Group

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