Sean Bone, Parade Burgers, Rosalias Pizza and Bodega Deli, 3 locations
My business partners and I thought it would be a good idea to sign a lease on a building that was previously retail and turn it into a restaurant. I took it upon myself to learn some basic skills in SketchUp, and I thought I did a pretty good job. Until I met Gerrick.
When Gerrick approached me about this course it was a no brainer. We spent a fortune on getting the correct drawings to make Bodega happen.
During the course I realized I had hardly scratched the surface of what SketchUp can do. It has cut down the time it takes by over half. Learning that all the kitchen equipment is online and to scale was a game changer.
I personally believe if you are starting a restaurant, it should be an expression of yourself. No one will be able to express your own ideas in the same way you can. This course gives you the skills to turn your vision into a reality without relying on someone else.
We are now remodeling Parade, and I am easily able to make changes and present many different designs in an afternoon.
Betty Phan, Saigon '60s Vietnamese Cuisine, 3 locations
I have a deep love for hospitality, and to me, it's not just about the food and service, it's about the entire atmosphere, branding, and design. The way you bring together colors, themes, and aesthetics plays a crucial role in connecting with customers on both a cultural and emotional level.
I have experience setting up and renovating two previous restaurants: one casual dining and one more fine dining. However, my biggest challenge has always been creating a cohesive theme and selecting the right colors, materials, furniture, and style to match that vision.
Often, I would work with a branding designer, take their advice, implement some ideas, and later realize that the design aligned more with their vision than my own. This led to back-and-forth revisions, with me making adjustments to bring the design closer to what I truly wanted. On top of that, I had to coordinate contractors myself to stay within budget, relying on the people I trusted most to get the job done. I felt like I was paying someone a lot of money but ending up doing all the work myself.
In an ideal world, an interior designer would work directly with the builder to execute everything from A to Z, but in reality, that requires a much larger budget, including a dedicated budget for design.
I have a strong vision for my business and brand. I know what looks good and what doesn't. What I needed were the skills and tools to bring my ideas to life, so I could present them clearly for feedback and refinement. Since I was in the middle of setting up my second restaurant, it felt like the right time to join.
I gained valuable insights into the initial ideation process: how to budget, key factors to consider when choosing a location, and most importantly, how to create a 3D sketch of a space. If you already have a space, the course teaches you how to build a digital model and experiment with colors, decor, and furniture to see how everything fits together.
It's not easy, and it requires a lot of work, but once you complete your design, there's a real sense of accomplishment.
Another great aspect of the program was the opportunity to meet other passionate hospitality business owners. Being around people who share the same energy and enthusiasm for the industry was truly inspiring, and I looked forward to every session.
This program is perfect for small business owners with a limited budget and a hands-on approach to branding and design. Even if you plan to hire a designer or color consultant, having your space sketched out with a clear color scheme will make communication much easier. Everyone, including yourself, will know exactly what you want.
What makes this course even better is Gerrick. He is incredibly knowledgeable and passionate, not someone who just teaches and moves on. Even after the course ended, I continued to email him with questions about details I was stuck on, like lighting and styling, and he was always happy to help.
If you're considering joining, I highly recommend it!
Josh Barlow, Jo Bro's Burgers and Loco Bros Taqueria, 3 locations
Brody Jenkins and I started Jo Bro's in 2019, followed by the Loco Bros brand in 2021. We operate 2 food trucks, 2 Loco Bros stores, 1 Jo Bro's store and 1 commercial kitchen.
I joined the program to tap into the wealth of knowledge that Gerrick has. I wanted to learn the proper way to go about opening a restaurant and be able to do things in the correct timeline and order. Getting insight from someone as experienced as Gerrick into how he goes about the whole process was super valuable. Listening to him talk about the rights and the wrongs, and what has worked for him in the past and what hasn't, was exactly what I wanted to take from the course.
I was surprised at how quickly we were able to learn 3D modeling. Hearing Gerrick share his knowledge from working on so many hospitality projects was not only interesting but also incredibly helpful for a couple of young guys who want to keep opening more locations in the coming years!
This course is a must for anyone on a path to opening multiple locations who wants to learn to do the bulk of the design and concept work themselves. Being able to listen and learn from the best in the business is worth its weight in gold!
Jay Yang, Lowbrow, 4 locations
I had been considering a refresh for some time, but I wasn't sure what changes to make or where to start. I joined the class because I wanted to learn a new skill and explore design ideas on my own instead of hiring someone to do it.
The class gave me a good understanding of spatial planning and layout optimization. Now I can play around with ideas for new locations on my own and approach landlords with well-thought-out plans.
This course is perfect for people who have a good general knowledge of design but crave more. You'll get out of it what you put in, so if you're ready to fully commit, you'll get more than your money's worth.
Billy Zhao, Tuitui Cafe, 1 location
Before joining the program, I was working as a head chef and co-owner of a bistro. While I had a strong background in kitchen operations and running a business, I lacked the technical knowledge and confidence to design or renovate a restaurant space efficiently.
I joined because I wanted to learn how to design or renovate restaurants and cafes in a way that's faster, smarter, and more cost-effective. I knew this skill would be crucial as we planned to open or refresh our space.
The course gave me a clear framework and practical tools to approach restaurant design and renovation. I learned how to avoid common mistakes, plan layouts more effectively, and make decisions that save both time and money. It really boosted my confidence in managing future projects.
If you're working in the hospitality industry, I highly recommend this program. It can help you solve a lot of the challenges that come with designing or upgrading a restaurant. Whether you're starting a new project or improving an existing one, this course will save you time, money, and stress.
Fedor Sazanov, Fern Cafe, 1 location
Before the course, I was not sure of all the bits and pieces that go into designing a restaurant. It was hard for me to estimate the potential costs, and I was not quite sure what to look out for in a prospective location, or where to start once I found one.
Gerrick's offer was very tempting, but to be honest, I was just curious and decided to give it a go.
Surprisingly, after just 11 sessions I had a comprehensive list of steps and hints on how to design a restaurant. I learned what to look out for in a suitable site, why it's a good idea to convert an existing restaurant rather than build one from scratch, and how to use SketchUp to build my own 3D and 2D models. It was also very useful to learn how to communicate my plan to builders and other contractors, and how to run the entire project efficiently and effectively.
This investment will bring you a considerable return and save you a lot of money in the long run.
Danny Lee, Rumors Coffee, 3 locations
We have been waiting to expand, so I joined the program to learn what Gerrick goes through on every project. Learning SketchUp helped a lot with our next space, and so did learning how to approach finding a new space.
If you want to start your own business, save money on hiring a designer, and learn how to go through lease agreements, this course will give you a real head start.
Isaac Yu, The Breakfast Club, Bonita, Runo, Lady Luck, 3 locations
Gerrick is an absolute creative genius! Working with him was an incredible experience. His ability to transform ideas into visually stunning designs is unparalleled. He effortlessly captured the essence of my brand and delivered outstanding results. From start to finish, he demonstrated professionalism and exceptional communication skills. If you're looking for a designer for hospitality who will surpass your expectations, look no further. Gerrick is the one you need for unforgettable designs. More to come!!
Alex George, Peach’s Hot Chicken, 1 location
Gerrick designed our new restaurant and it turned out amazing. He had great ideas and also incorporated aspects that we wanted in the design as well. It was easy to communicate with him and he was always available to answer any questions we had throughout the design and building process. We will definitely use Gerrick again for our next restaurant renovation!
Charles Williams, Williams Eatery, 1 location
Gerrick designs beautiful spaces. He also understands how hospitality businesses work behind the scenes. This enables thoughtful design, creating efficiency in every aspect of the space.
Peter Barton, Burger Geek, 3 locations
I own Burger Geek and I've used Gerrick for our latest two stores. Working with Gerrick has really helped flesh out our concept into a brand that has it's own unique feel and identity. He was able to respond to last minute changes to equipment and design quickly and effectively. I'd definitely recommend Gerrick to any hospitality operators.
Shane Liu, Sumthin Dumplin, 3 locations
Multiple projects with Gerrick! Fantastic.
Adriana Ferdian, Bali Nights, 2 locations
As new kids on the hospitality block, we kinda half knew what we were doing, and half winging it still. We knew how to make good food, but needed that extra eye around designing a good service flow. Add to that an awkward layout in a space that’s been empty for a year. Gerrick came in and drafted us a proposal that suited our budget - we were a small business with not a lot of capital, we had a brand in mind but needed a pair of extra eyes - Gerrick came in literally with Xray vision and laser beams. Bit kinda like a hospitality superhero here to save you from tight spaces and pools of old kitchen grease. He gave us ideas that we would never have thought of, little tips n tricks that are borderline genius, and just a general shoulder to cry on. Restaurant owners, you know what we’re talking about. Gerrick you're a powerhouse, loved working with you, and all the lols in between. Terima kasih!
Jay Yang, Lowbrow, 3 locations
The process of designing with Gerrick was very smooth and efficient. He is professional, creative and has a good eye for detail. He communicated with me every step of the way to get the job done to the best of his abilities. Would highly recommend!
Aryan Soin, Sapphire Night Club, 1 location
Great to work with! Highly recommend!
Mikey Rush, Small Mercies, 1 location
Working with Gerrick was a joy and he's definitely the person to go for new hospitality businesses. Even though we were young first time business owners, we were never made to feel out of our depth and his excitement for our project was evident every time we had a catch-up. The biggest bonus for us was his ability to pick up the project from a very early stage with brand concept, design and through to the build-out of the space, meaning that when it came to designing our new business everything felt cohesive every step of the way. We couldn't be happier with how our space turned out and it wouldn't have looked half as good if we hadn't used Gerrick.
Andy Nguyen, NamNam, 3 location
We recently worked closely with Gerrick. He is super clever, creative, lovely to work with and delivered a beautiful result. Highly recommend.
Ranesh Parmar, JLL
All my dealings with Gerrick have been incredible. He is reliable, timely and most of all cost efficient towards tenants’ needs and he always goes the extra mile understanding tenant’s full spectrum of requirements prior to getting stuck into a job. I would highly recommend his service to my clients and am always impressed with the results
Gordon Kong, Rolling Pin, 3 locations
We have multi projects with Gerrick. Love his work. He always goes the extra mile to make sure the job is done properly. Really easy to communicate and efficient. Highly recommended.
Emma Zhao, Mibo, 2 locations
Gerrick is AMAZING. He brings his passion and experience in hospitality into the project, it is great fun working with him. Highly recommend!!!
Trevor Bradley, Flight Coffee, 3 locations
Gerrick has been an absolute joy to work with. As a cafe owner, he has reviewed branding as well as designed a remodel. I felt comfortable and looked after throughout the process of dealing with him. He brings fresh, different, and creative ideas to life, while knowing full-well, the implications and technical detail, behind everything. Gerrick creates awesome spaces, and most importantly - they work. The customer journey is always well thought out and efficiency for the staff is front and center. The other big thing to note - he does it all. From working with an empty site, right through to designing the layout, dealing with permits, managing the build, even branding. He has you sorted. He knows his stuff. I'll be using him again for sure.
Ryan Sharma, Bluebells Cakery, 2 locations
Gerrick is FANTASTIC. Couldn't recommend his services highly enough. Top effort, keep it up.
Tim Burrows, Wise Boys, 2 locations
Really enjoyed working with Gerrick on our store build-out. Guided us through every big and small decision and came away with an awesome design. Will definitely choose him again for future projects
Morgan Suckling, Harrows
Gerrick is an absolute legend - always enjoy working with him. His work is outstanding and speaks for itself from both a design & delivery perspective.
Stuart Robertson, Mean Business
As a restaurant consultant I get to work with Gerrick on a variety of projects. His concepts are always brilliant, operationally well considered and integrate superbly with his clients' brand identity.
Hannah Miller Childs, Behemoth Brewing Company, Churly’s, 2 locations
Gerrick is the best. His attention to detail while still being flexible is exactly what we needed on our project. We often messaged, texted, emailed, and called many times per day, and he always answered with a smile. Setting up a new place is stressful but he worked his hardest to keep us fully informed every step of the way and of course, work within our budget. Highly recommend Gerrick!
Michael Ny, Glou Glou, 1 location
Gerrick was recommended to us when we were looking for design specialists for one of our new spots. From our very first email inquiry to video call, our experience working with him has been incredibly valuable. He listens, bringing all of our ideas to life. Nothing felt impossible or too hard and we could feel he was invested in bringing designs to fruition, not just a job. The process from start to finish was so seamless and enjoyable, communication was always on point and I felt that Gerrick was really one of our team members we could call on any time.
If this rating doesn't speak for itself, we've since worked on 3 more projects with Gerrick since our first one together and looking forward to many more! An absolute asset to the industry.
© 2026 Restaurant Design Academy. All Rights Reserved.