Standard bar. Bar height. What is a home bar

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The bar counter has already become a familiar element of modern home interior kitchens. And it does not matter in what style it is made. But the ambiguity in what should be the height of the bar counter from the floor is still the place to be. This is because in the traditional view, such an item is noticeably taller than an ordinary dining table.

In a modern interpretation, a bar counter can be called any elongated tabletop, mounted on a leg or on a wide, rectangular base.

The standard dimensions of the bar counter in the kitchen are as follows:

  • width - 55 cm;
  • length -120 cm;
  • height - 105-115 cm.

The width is determined based on common sense: a narrower countertop simply will not allow you to feel comfortable while eating.

Length is a conditional parameter in modern conditions. The rack can be wide, but short in length. This option is suitable for 2 people sitting opposite each other. In this case, the minimum recommended length will be 60 cm, which is optimal for one family member.

Today, this piece of furniture performs a wider range of functions, being a dining table in a small kitchen, and an element of zoning in a studio apartment. Therefore, it makes no sense to strictly adhere to the standard parameters. After all, individually selected dimensions for each specific room are the key to the ergonomics of the kitchen space.

But! There are certain guidelines in calculating the optimal height. Knowing and observing them, it is easier to choose chairs and make the design convenient to use, taking into account the growth of family members.

What determines the height, and how to choose the optimal one?

The distance from the floor is determined largely by the type of construction. In the kitchen, this element can be either freestanding or part of kitchen set. Here are a few options devices.

  1. Continuation of the headset (stand-process).

In this case, the height of the rack will be determined by the distance to the countertop of the kitchen set from the floor.

By default, this parameter is equal to 85 cm (with small deviations up to 5 cm in a big direction) if the surface has one level.

A variant with a two-level design is possible.

The direction of the tabletop can be any.

In a small kitchen of 507 sq.m, for example, it makes sense to use a window sill to save space.

Advice! For a small kitchen, it is better to choose bar stools like stools that can be pushed under the counter and free up space.

In a kitchen-living room or studio, such a model can divide the space into zones. Here, angular, linear layout options for the headset or U-shaped are possible.





  1. Rack-strov.

island layout kitchens - stylish and practical solution for a spacious kitchen in a private house, in a studio or a combined kitchen-living room.

The work surface is located on the same level with the lower cabinets of the headset, the countertop of the rack rises higher.

With this layout, the kitchen is even more functional: the island serves as both a work surface and a dining area. On different sides there can be boxes, shelves for organizing storage.

  1. Separately standing.

It is not always possible to make the rack a monolithic continuation of the kitchen set. Indeed, in such cases, it is necessary to make furniture to order, which increases the budget for the arrangement. You can purchase it separately, choosing a design suitable for kitchen furniture.

You can install this type of construction against the wall, thereby separating the working part of the kitchen from the dining room or living room. Then the rack will act as a partition.

The height of the bar counter in the kitchen in this case may not depend on the level of the countertop of the headset from the floor, because. it performs only the functions of a partition and a dining area. The standard and minimum allowable height of a dining table in the form of a rack according to GOST 13025.3-85 is 75 cm from the floor (which is optimal for a person of average height of 1.65 m). Chairs for such a dining group will also be standard. You can make an option within 105-115 cm. Then you will need to purchase special high chairs.

  1. Stand-windowsill or by the window.

It is not necessary to make a single, solid surface with a window sill. A window sill stand that is not connected to the work surface of the kitchen set may look more compact and practical.

The height is determined by the level of the window sill.
An alternative is not to touch the window sill, setting the countertop 20-30 cm higher. Then it will only be necessary to find suitable chairs.

Below are two options for organizing a bar counter by the window: with and without window sill dismantling.

  1. Folding mini-rack.

Another optimal solution for arranging a small kitchen.

The height also corresponds to the dimensions of a regular dining table. According to the standard - 75 cm.

  1. Two-level.

This model can be implemented in any of the above options. So you can divide the surface into dining and working; to make a design as close as possible to the traditional, classic design of such a design, designing a kitchen in the style of a cafe or bar.

The height of the upper level can be determined individually, but within standard limits - up to 105-115 cm. In this case, you do not have to make chairs to order. The lower level corresponds to the height of the lower cabinets from the floor (85-90 cm).

How to choose bar stools?

When choosing chairs, the height of the seat from the floor is important.

Some time ago, kitchens with a breakfast bar were perceived by many as a sign of wealth, an element of luxury and chic borrowed from European citizens. Some considered them obscene interior objects, because, as a rule, such furniture could be seen in entertainment establishments: bars, nightclubs and striptease clubs. But over the years, what was a luxury has become an integral part of the interior. modern apartments and houses, becoming an indicator of the relaxedness and perfect taste of homeowners.

What it is?

It is difficult to call a modern bar counter just a prestigious decoration; it is also a rather practical piece of furniture:

  1. additional surface where you can comfortably eat;
  2. a working area where it is convenient to cook various goodies;
  3. spacious storage space for kitchen utensils.

And if the kitchen is combined with the living room, then the bar counter will visually separate these zones.

Bar counters can be the most different forms: rectangular, corner, semi-circular, oval, etc. Which one will show off indoors depends only on the size of the kitchen, its design and the taste preferences of the owner.

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Height

There are many different bar counters for the kitchen. Their optimal height is the distance between the table top and the floor of 120 cm. This solution allows you to create a cozy and warm atmosphere in the apartment, and it is very convenient to use furniture in the room in this design.

You can raise the countertop even more, but only if you need to visually separate the kitchen and living area, but this is not at all necessary. If the kitchen has a low ceiling, then a high bar counter will exacerbate the situation even more. Furniture will contrast ugly against the general background of the room.

The standard height of the bar counter is 115 cm from the floor. AT combined models most often, the working surface has a height of 90 cm - this is the optimal height for eating.

How to calculate acceptable height

Most often, bar counters are made standard sizes 110 - 115 cm tall. However, sometimes these parameters are not suitable, so you need to consider each case on an individual basis.

For example, custom-made bar counters are produced with a height of 70 to 125 cm. And if you need to combine an existing countertop with a new interior detail, you just need to adjust its height according to the parameters of the finished pieces of furniture.

The seat of the chair should be located at a level of 30 cm from the tabletop, this fact must be taken into account when buying or ordering a bar counter.

Varieties

Before buying a bar counter, it is worth learning about the varieties of this type of furniture, because this is the only way to understand which option is most appropriate in a particular case. Modern manufacturers have made sure that their potential buyers have big choice bar counters. Therefore, they are all divided into the following types:

  • classical;
  • island;
  • combined or combined;
  • two-level;
  • bar counter partition.

Classic model ( standard) is a tabletop with legs. Its height starts from 110 cm. Such a convenient stand is more often used by the townsfolk for cooking, cocktails, serves as a table for a small family meal. It is installed in kitchens with a small area.

Peculiarity island model lies in its size. It can be installed exclusively in large spaces, in a small kitchen it can make movement difficult. This type of rack is suitable for a whole dynasty or a person who likes to invite many friends to his house.

Combined model It is a continuation of the table and at the same time a surface for cooking. After installing such a rack, the kitchen will become P or L-shaped. This model is relevant for a large family.

Name two-level model speaks for itself. Such a bar counter is a combination of two tiers: the upper one - the bar area and the lower one - the surface for cooking. This model performs two functions at the same time, thanks to which it suits the interior of a small kitchen.

The rack-partition is used when the kitchen is not a separate room, but smoothly passes into the living room. To separate the room, they put just such a partition.

Manufacturing materials

Materials for the manufacture of the bar counter are used in a variety of ways. Their appearance depends on the general style in the room and personal taste, preferences of the owners of the room. Countertops can be made of wood, glass, metal, plastic, ceramics. There are no restrictions.

An important element in the design of the bar counter is also the backlight. She can make twilight brighter, illuminate the room and create a romantic atmosphere, thereby making being near her a real pleasure.

Advantages and disadvantages

Such a piece of furniture as a bar counter has many advantages. It is rather difficult to list them all, but it is realistic to highlight the main ones.

  • Classic racks or mini racks do not take up much space, so they can be used instead of a dining table. According to many housewives, this option is much better than a separate eating area.
  • If the kitchen will have a large bar counter, its interior space can be a great place to store kitchen utensils. In addition, a small refrigerator can fit in it.
  • Having a bar counter in the kitchen, you can not worry about your figure. Studies have shown that an ordinary table beckons a person to sit down, have a good meal, and a long meal will not work at the counter. In Western countries, bar counters are called “breakfast counters”, that is, the place where you don’t sit too much, but you can have a bite to eat and relax a bit.
  • In studio apartments, where there is no border between the kitchen and the hall, the bar counter can successfully separate these zones. Designers began to actively apply this solution seven years ago. The main thing in this situation is to choose the same color for the bar counter and the living room, or one that will suit both parts of the room, for example, lilac will be an excellent duet corner kitchen with a beige bar counter.
  • The classic rack options and mini models are complemented by various railings, fruit bowls, pull-out shelves and other useful items that should always be at hand.
  • Another advantage of the bar counter is that it is mounted quite high from the floor level, which means that when it is not in use, chairs can be placed under the bar, as a result, space is significantly saved, and the chairs do not interfere with anyone.

Bar counters have a minimum of shortcomings.

  • Firstly, some racks are installed at a height of 20 cm from the floor, which means that in order to sit at such a table, you need to purchase high chairs with footrests in advance.
  • Also, at some racks, a company of three or more people cannot be at the same time. That is, it is impossible to use it instead of a table in a small-sized kitchen, or lunch will have to be stretched for several hours.

How to choose

You need to choose a bar counter slowly, guided by certain rules. They relate, first of all, to the material of execution of the rack and the method of its fastening.

The material must match that used for the production of countertops. In the case when the counter is a continuation of the kitchen set, it is better to use an artificial stone.

The type of attachment depends on the taste of the potential owner of this decor element. They can be a chrome holder or a massive wooden stand.

If the bar counter has various drawers and shelves, then ideally they should be “smart shelves”, that is, they should be useful, this is especially important for kitchens with a small area.

If finances allow, you can buy a rack with a small refrigerator, it will help unload the main unit, saving additional space.

It is one of the main elements in creating the image of a restaurant, bar, cafe or club. The visitor's impression is formed from the first minutes of their stay in your establishment.

If the interior of the restaurant is made in a certain style, and the bar counter matches it, then the guests of your establishment will favorably perceive the offered dishes and drinks, appreciate the quality of service and will definitely visit you again.

Bar organization

The correct organization of the bar can bring the establishment up to 60% of the profit, even if it is not night club or a cocktail lounge, but a regular restaurant. Think over the design, take into account the parameters of the bar station, install high-quality equipment, and the results of your efforts will undoubtedly please you.

The bar counter is in the center of attention of the guests of the restaurant, and it is here that the most of visitors. The rack should be attractive, stylish and functional with thoughtful ergonomics.

Since appliances rarely fit into a stylish interior (hi-tech and loft styles can be an exception), all equipment is built into the design of the bar counter.

Bartender's workplace

The bartender's workplace is a zone of special attention for the guests of the institution. It should be comfortable for everyone here: visitors - to relax, and bartenders and the administrator - to work.

In order for the dishes, utensils and drinks for making cocktails to be at hand and located in a certain order, the bar counter should have many shelves and storage compartments.

Design and manufacture bar station trust the experts. Choosing a beautiful and stylish counter, you can lose sight of important professional nuances that will affect the quality and speed of customer service, and therefore profit.

Ideal if in the choice of a bar counter the bartender will also take part future restaurant. Delivery and installation of the rack is a lengthy process, so order it in advance.

Important:

  • provide a place to store dishes (glasses, plates)
  • make room for teapots
  • bar equipment should be attractive and reliable
  • the dimensions of the tabletop should allow placing glasses on it and not hinder the movements of the guest and the bartender
  • properly organize the space

The width of the bar counter is 70-80 cm, the thickness of the countertop is at least 5 cm. The optimal height of the bar counter should not exceed 150 cm, the height of professional counters is 114 cm.

These numbers are related to standard height bar stool. With such parameters of the bar counter, the working conditions of the bartender are the most favorable, since he does not have to constantly raise his hands.

Correctly organized space inside the rack increases productivity by 2-3 times. Plan the arrangement of cabinets, equipment and storage areas so that any item can be reached while standing still.

It is realistic to achieve such placement when the bartender does not leave the workplace when ordering 70-80% of drinks, while working simultaneously with a coffee machine, a blender and a beer tap.

Equipment

The number of drinks for each bar is individual and depends on the concept of the restaurant. The range should be quite varied. At the same time, presented alcoholic drinks should be in demand, and not stand for beauty.

Don't skimp on bar equipment. Choose professional equipment and you will never regret such an investment. What to choose?

Speedrec - hinged or built-in shelf for alcohol, "bottle pocket". Provides quick access to the main ingredients when preparing drinks or cocktails.

Container for cut fruit.

Glasstation– dish rack from the lowest and most used to the highest. Usually located on the left.

Icebucket - large ice bucket.

Powerful ice machine. Certain beverages require a large number ice, which should always be available.

coffee machine and blender made of metal.

Professional refrigerators it is reasonable to install at the back of the showcase at the bottom so that visitors do not see them


How to place?

According to the rules of ergonomics, all machinery and equipment should be placed in those places where it will be convenient to use it and where you expect to find it.

Fundamental rules:

  • everything that is put or poured should be located to the right of the bartender, and where it is put or poured - to the left
  • those positions that are ordered most often are put up in the speedtrack in front of the bartender.
  • on the left - a shaker and dishes, then - tubules and other decorative elements
  • garnish box: a container of chopped fruit for garnishing cocktails. Located next to the bottles
  • to the left of the bartender is a sink, and to the right is a beer tap
  • install the coffee machine behind the tap.

The placement of equipment depends on the specialization of the institution, for example, a beer tap in a pub takes central location, but in a coffee shop, a coffee machine comes to the fore.

Proper arrangement of equipment takes into account the location of the restaurant's engineering communications.

The supply of electricity and the installation of electrical wiring are based on the power that the bar equipment will consume.

The choice of equipment with optimal performance depends on the number of potential bar guests. Having decided in advance on this issue, you can design a bar counter of a suitable shape and size.

materials

Materials for the manufacture of a bar counter can be different, but always wear-resistant. For example:

  • tree (oak, beech)
  • a natural stone
  • acrylic and artificial stone
  • metal
  • plastic
  • glass

Bar counter from artificial stone ideal for restaurants, clubs and cafes. It is possible to make a rack of any configuration from artificial stone and at the same time it will be practical, convenient and easy to maintain.

Due to the non-porous surface, it does not absorb moisture and dirt. Such a rack is easy to repair and restore its appearance.

In expensive elite establishments, bar counters made of wood are installed - this is a classic option. At such a counter, the visitor involuntarily spends much more time than he planned. Alternatively, the current combination of wood and epoxy.

Wood is durable and has a beautiful texture, which gives the whole structure a respectable and sophisticated look. As a result of this approach, the most pleasant and harmonious atmosphere is created, which attracts visitors.

Wine cabinet

The wine cabinet for storing drinks is a high-tech modern product. Wine cabinets maintain an optimal microclimate for storing wine and are installed in any heated room with a stable power supply.

Wine cabinet, whiskey cabinet or cognac cabinet are responsible for long-term storage and do an excellent job of displaying drinks in the retail space. That is why their design is given special attention.

Expensive restaurants with a reputation prefer wine cabinets with natural wood (beech, poplar, cherry, oak) or genuine leather finishes. Impeccable maintenance of the desired temperature inside the refrigerator is the main characteristic of cabinets for elite alcohol.

The wine bottle cabinet is equipped with several temperature zones:

  • for storage
  • to give the required temperature before pouring into glasses

Most wine cabinets are equipped with carbon filters. They do not allow pungent odors to penetrate inside and affect the quality of the wine. Note that some wine cabinets do not have compressors and are equipped with thermoelectric cooling, which allows you to avoid vibration and store wine in ideal conditions.

Furniture

Take care of purchasing high-quality cabinets, shelves, bedside tables and other furniture accessories. This will help to hide the products, materials and components that are used in the kitchen and near the counter for preparing certain dishes and drinks from the eyes of customers.

Published by DecorateMe. Updated 03 Mar 2019 .

The fashion for installing bar counters in apartments has appeared a long time ago, but it is in no hurry to give up its place to other trends. Often the question arises - what are their dimensions, especially the height is of interest. It is impossible to answer in one word, becausebar counter heightis a value that depends on many factors.

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What is a bar counter

The counter is an important element of the interior of the bar.It looks like a fairly wide barrier separating visitors and employees of the establishment..

The creation of two zones with different functions - for the bartender and for visitors - creates an opportunity to properly organize work and cut off drunk people from bar workers.Bar counter widthis determined in such a way as to exclude the possibility for visitors to take something from behind the counter, and for the bartender - to create the possibility of convenient reception of money and delivery of goods.

The most common width corresponds to the approximate length of an outstretched arm - 70 cm. In addition to pure functionality, the design has an important decorative value, since it is the face of the institution, the main element around which all events are built.

History of the bar

The term is believed to have originated in North America around the 18th century.The prototype was an ordinary counter, which, in fact, is any bar counter.

The original function quickly expanded - the stalls began to be used as tables at which visitors drank, ate and generally rested.

Then it was finally determinedbar counter height, a standard has been developed , which is still valid today.

This use gave rise to a kind of bar culture, which differs from cafes or restaurants in greater democracy and simplicity - everything was done right there, on the go. This contributed to the high popularity of bars among the poorer segments of the population, which at all times were in the majority.

Attention!In Russia, there were traditionally no bar counters, people preferred a more substantial feast to a snack or a drink on the go. The fashion for bars and the corresponding design of establishments came relatively recently, but it was firmly entrenched.

What functions is the bar counter responsible for?

The design separates visitors and bartenders. This is the main function for which it was created. The next, but no less important function is the creation of a platform, a working surface for the release or consumption of goods. . In addition, it is a kind of communication center that promotes trade and attracts visitors. From an ordinary specific interior element, the design has turned into a cult symbol recognizable by everyone.

Usually, the counter itself is meant, i.e. front line. In fact, the composition also includes the upper tier, as well as the back (buffet) line, which traditionally consists of rows of shelves with a variety of alcoholic beverages mounted on a cabinet with sliding doors designed to store various accessories.

Types of bar counters


Bar counters have been transformed and modified throughout the entire period of their existence. From the traditional type of counters, a taller design was created, convenient for a standing person.

If the table height is standard in the region of 70-75 cm, then the stand is much higher. In addition, various designs were created:

  1. Standard. This rack is made immediately in finished form and is not subject to design changes.
  2. Modular. It is created from unified elements and can be reassembled in a different configuration.

In addition, there are single- and multi-level racks that differ in the number of working surfaces. The most common are multi-level (from two or more) systems, they are more convenient for everyone, able to accommodate a lot of equipment and various items, allow you to organize a separate workspace for the bartender, inaccessible to visitors. Plainbar counter in a cafe has dimensions , which correspond to the area of ​​​​the hall and the style of the institution.

In addition, wall and island structures are distinguished, which are either attached to the wall at one or both ends, or are located in the middle of the hall without contact of the end parts with the walls.

What is a home bar

Bar counter in the apartmenthas a purely decorative value, since there is no functional need for it.It is created as a style element, and is used mainly as a dining or desktop.

Important!In apartments, narrow small structures are usually installed that have little in common with those used in cafes. However, they are smaller than the standard dinner table. This allows you to save kitchen space, which is very valuable in small apartments.

Most often, home options are an addition to the kitchen set. For example,bar countertop for kitchenmade from the same material as the rest of the furniture, so that the whole interior is a single whole. However, there are exclusive design options created for a particular room.

Dimensions of typical bar counters


A typical bar counter can have different sizes, which are determined by the size of the furniture, the style of the establishment and other factors.
.

There are no strictly defined values ​​in this direction, and the available GOSTs give a fairly wide range of values. Basically, such dimensions are chosen so that a standing person can comfortably lean on the work surface without bending over or standing on tiptoe.

This height is also convenient for the bartender, since the height of the lower level allows him to place work accessories, perform all the necessary actions without stressing the lumbar or shoulder region.

Bar counter for the kitchenit is done on the basis of other considerations - it is required to fit it into the interior of the kitchen as much as possible and ensure its intended use, which, in fact, is the function of a dining table. The small area of ​​​​kitchens puts forward rather stringent requirements. Consider the most popular designs:

Classic single-level model

A single-level model for an ordinary small-sized kitchen is the best option, since it is a stylized dining table, needed in the kitchen. At the same time, the design of the table rarely matches the rest of the interior, and the rack can be made as an additional part of the kitchen set.

Single level installation bar counter in the kitchenallows you to designate a certain style without involving additional elements or losing functionality.

mini rack

Mini-rack - a compact model designed specifically for installation in an apartment. It is a kind of cabinet, stylized as a classic model, but small in size. Such a product does not require full-fledged functionality, it is only necessary to designate a certain similarity to large prototypes. The main task lies in the decorative plane.

Is it possible to install a bar counter in a small kitchen


A small kitchen does not exclude the possibility of installation, you just need to choose a size that will not overload the space of the room and will allow you to perform functional duties.

There are several options that fit well into the interior of small kitchens:

  1. Bar counter combined with a dining table. AT this case the combination is conditional, since, in fact, there is dining table, made in a certain style. It is usually divided into two zones with different levels, allowing the product to be used both as a regular table and as a stand if necessary.
  2. Island stand. This type is a separately installed structure. The option is convenient because allows you to approach the product from any side which allows simultaneous use by a large number of people. The island stand is the closest analogue to a dining table.
  3. Rack with combined levels. This option allows you to divide the countertop into zones, allowing you to get more work surfaces. This visually cuts off the stand from the rest of the headset, while maintaining the overall style and functionality of each item separately.

Bar selection

Choosing a bar counter for the kitchen is not such a difficult matter. You should decide on the appearance and dimensions, decide whether it will have the same look as the entire kitchen set, or whether you need an exclusive option. With limited space, the choice is simplified, for example,kitchen bar lengthcan not be more than the dimensions of the room allow. In addition, there should be enough space for people.

Should the bar counter match the overall style of the interior


Compliance with the general style is desirable, but not necessary
.

This is a matter of taste and personal preferences of the owners, and such things are always decided on their own.

If you want to emphasize the design, to highlight an object from the general range, then it is better that it differs from all other elements.

If you want to create a complete picture, combine all the items into a single ensemble, the best solution would be to bring the stand as close as possible to the headset in appearance.

Table of standard sizes of bar counters

Existing standard sizes have a significant range of values, which raises some questions. The purchase of racks and chairs is often done separately, and it is very important to choose the most appropriate elements for each other, otherwise it will be inconvenient to use them. For example, what is the height of the bar in the kitchenmatches existing chairs? Or vice versa? A small table can help in resolving these issues:

Attention!These ratios are not fundamental and reflect the most convenient sizes for the average person. For children or people, very low or high ratios should be adjusted.

Standard sizes of bar counters


The main size that determines all ratios and proportions is
the height of the bar in the kitchen from the floor.

All other parameters are based on height, both in terms of usability and aesthetic positions.

A tall, but short and too narrow design will be perceived as disproportionate and incorrect.

In addition, the height of the tabletop is tiedbar stool height, which should contribute to the comfort of people sitting at the counter.

Length

The length of the structure depends on the parameters of the room.In this case, no standards are applicable, since the issue is resolved individually for each kitchen.. Here the width is more importantbar counter depth, since it can be chosen more freely.

Width

The width of the tabletop is selected from the range of 0.6-0.9 m (GOST 17524.5-93).For the kitchen, the selection criteria are based on the size of the room, headset, layout and other parameters. For multi-level structures, it is necessary to take into account the overall dimensions.

Important!It must be borne in mind that the width of the table top should provide a comfortable position for people around it, without crowding or inconvenience.

How to choose the right chairs

The selection of chairs is made according to two parameters:

  1. Heightseatsbar stool according to GOSTshould be 60-65% of the height of the countertop.
  2. The height of the back of the chair is chosen in such a way that it is possible to slide it under the countertop to obtain free space.

It should be borne in mind that these requirements are purely technical, give any advice on appearance chairs are pointless and out of place.

The bar counter in the apartment is a stylish and convenient interior element that can save kitchen space, create a unique flavor and impress guests. Properly selected sizes will provide comfort and special chic.

Bar counters in typical Russian kitchens have long become commonplace. Having experienced a boom in popularity about 10 years ago, they were forgotten for some time, but today they are returning to the design of ordinary Russian residential apartments, houses and cottages. They are loved for their convenience and compactness, for original look and for the opportunity to experiment with the design of the entire kitchen.

History of the bar

Initially, a bar is an attribute of a drinking establishment, which got its name from this very bar. Bars in America acquired counters during the gold rush of the 18th century. A slab of stone or thick wood separated the bartender from the audience and gave him cover in case of a firefight or dishes and furniture flying at his head.

Dashing times in the States have passed, but the racks have remained in every bar. Later they migrated to the homes of ordinary Americans, then Europeans, and later Russians.

Today, a bar counter can be made from chipboard, wood, plastic, stone and even glass. Sizes, shapes and even different functionality distinguishes them from each other.

Functional

When bar counters only appeared in ordinary American houses, they carried the same task as in a modern bar - during parties, the owner, playing the role of a bartender, served drinks to guests, bottles of alcohol, glasses and other equipment were stored there. However, later, in more limited spaces, counters ceased to be an independent object and became part of the kitchen. It turned out that the size of the bar in the kitchen and its height are very convenient to have a quick breakfast or a snack, drink coffee on the run. Today, the bar counter in many homes has simply replaced kitchen table- after her lunch and dinner, cook and just sit with a newspaper and a cup of tea.

Over time, the counters separated from the kitchen again to transform into a kitchen island - this high table, in fact, a bar counter in which cabinets are mounted, hobs, ovens, sinks. The convenience of such an island is that it is a working kitchen area, a large dining table, and a wide field for rolling out dough, making homemade dumplings, cooking with the whole family, or something else of the same scale.

Rack types

In relation to the kitchen set, racks can be divided into several types:

  • Wall.
  • Rack-partition.
  • Island.

The size of the wall-mounted bar counter is ideal for small kitchens. Its narrow edge is attached to the wall, and the long one has an approach from two sides, so that even in a small kitchen several people can fit. Often this rack is part of the kitchen furniture and a continuation of the countertop, they are also equipped with a support holding the rack and the upper cornice. The cornice and support are also often played up by furniture designers - built-in lamps or a hanger for glasses are mounted in the cornice (hi to the original purpose of the bar counter), and fruit baskets or decor are mounted to the support.

The partition rack can also be wall-mounted, but it has a completely obvious function - to partition or zone the space. It is often used in large rooms of a combined kitchen-living room, where you need to somehow separate the actual kitchen and living area. At the same time, the dimensions of the bar counter in the kitchen-living room can be completely arbitrary.

The bar counter here has several functions at once:

  • Decorative and zoning.
  • The function of a table for snacks and a bar.
  • Continuation of the working area due to the greater height.

The island is a free-standing bar counter that contains kitchen cabinets, built-in appliances, sink. This is, in fact, a separate part of the kitchen set, which is used both as a work table and as a dining table.

For your own bar

The dimensions of any kitchen are suitable for placing a bar counter, but it has become especially widespread in small kitchens. It is quite difficult to fit both a full-fledged work surface and a dining table in them, so a narrow and high bar counter is an excellent solution.

To fit it on, it is better to make it the same height as the main tabletop, that is, 85-90 centimeters. When designing the location of the rack, do not forget about the working triangle, that is, the area between the stove, refrigerator and sink. There should be no obstacles in this triangle, so it would be a mistake, for example, to separate the refrigerator from the work area with a rack.

Also a great solution for a small kitchen would be a bar counter - a continuation of the windowsill. Today you can order a window sill from any material and any width. Such a small detail can be very functional. Such a stand will hide the battery under the window, and to expand the space to it, you can choose the appropriate height that completely slides under it.

Small kitchens do not tolerate large bulky furniture, so it is better to choose chrome tubes to support the bar counter, they will make the counter seem to float and light. Chairs for the counter can be selected from transparent plastic or on thin chrome legs - they are the least noticeable in space, which means they give a feeling of greater emptiness and weightlessness.

Bar counters, dimensions: height

It ranges from 86 to 130 centimeters. This difference is explained by the functionality of the rack - the lower it is, the more convenient it is to use it as a dining table. If the counter is flush with the kitchen work surface, then its height is usually about 86-90 cm. If the counter functions as a partition, its height will be more than a meter.

Multi-level racks are also possible, when one part of it is equal in height to the kitchen worktop, and the other is higher and plays the role of a table in the company of high bar stools.

Also, when choosing a height, pay attention to the growth of your family members, if it is above average, then the height of the rack can be taken up to 130 centimeters, respectively, for low owners it will be inconvenient - the height should be about 1 meter.

Bar counter dimensions: length

The length of a standard rack is 120 centimeters, but in fact it can be absolutely anything, it depends on the preferences of the owner of the kitchen and on its size. When designing, keep in mind that for comfortable accommodation one person needs at least 60 cm. Usually no more than two people sit at the counter at once, so 120 centimeters have become a universal option.

Width

The standard dimensions of the bar counter in width, as a rule, are 55 cm, of course, more can be done, but this is the golden mean. But making a width less than 30 centimeters is not worth it - it will be inconvenient and non-functional. The 30 cm wide counter is also quite narrow and is not suitable for a full serving of lunch or dinner, but for small apartments it can be an ideal option.

How to choose bar stools

No bar is complete without chairs. Special sizes are an important detail, because if any are suitable for a regular table, you only need to choose a design, then in the case of a bar counter, size is the first thing.

The height of bar stools is usually 75 or 85 centimeters, but other sizes can also be found on sale, for example, at Ikea, which produces bar stools 63 cm high. The main rule when choosing chairs is that the difference between a chair and a tabletop should be at least 30 cm, otherwise the person sitting at the counter will be uncomfortable. For reference: if the dimensions of the kitchen bar counter are from 120 cm, then take chairs no lower than 85 centimeters, and if the counter is lower, then a 75 cm chair is enough.

Bar stools come with or without backs, with four or one legs, swivel and stationary. and the footboard are as comfortable as possible - you can sit on them for quite a long time without feeling that you are hanging on an uncomfortable perch. But stools are less convenient, but they save space - they are easy to slide under the counter.

We tried to tell as much as possible about the dimensions of the bar counter. The photos presented in the article will help you decide on the choice of this popular and sought-after element of kitchen furniture.