Bar Countertops

In the last 30 years, the prevalence of bars in homes has increased significantly. It is now common to see bar countertops in a separate area from the kitchen. These area often represent a dedicated workspace meant for entertaining guests. Previously, drinks or cocktails were made in the kitchen and the kitchen sink was used for clean up.

However, in recent years this dedicated bar area has everything needed for entertainment including a refrigerator, separate bar countertops, shelving to accommodate drinks, an ice maker, and even conversation pieces such as a popcorn making machine. Some home owners will even have beer kegs installed for draft beers. The choices are endless, but what ties all of the elements together is the countertops.

If the bar countertops are an acceptable distance from the main kitchen, it is perfectly acceptable to select a very different and unique countertop from the kitchen counters. However, if both the kitchen and bar are within one visual spectrum it is important to consider the design ramifications and to simply use the same color and material for the bar as you did in the kitchen. Since you will not be cooking in the bar area, you can also consider other materials including solid surface counter tops, quartz, granite counter tops, marble, tile, laminate, and even cultured marble. Broadening the choice of materials will introduce an exponential choice of new colors to consider.

As you plan the bar area, it's important to consider the cabinet space and the respective countertops that will sit on top of the cabinets. Additionally, you should accommodate a small bar sink with a faucet to help in clean up and preparation of your beverages. Your bar countertops should ideally tie in with the design theme of your walls, cabinets, lighting, shelving, and your window coverings. Be sure to take all of these factors in to consideration as you select the available options.

If the bar area is outdoors, you may want to lean towards natural stone materials versus man made materials. Outdoor bar areas will work best with granite, marble, and quartz. Drainage of your outdoor sink should be a consideration as you plan the layout. It is really helpful if you select bar countertops that can incorporate an under mount bar sink. This will allow you to quickly wipe down the counters and move on to the important task of entertaining your guests.

Finally, you should also think about how you make your drinks and where all of your beverage preparation items should be placed. If you have the opportunity to put the alcohol, cups, blenders, refrigerator, ice maker, and sink in the proper place, your work will be effortless. Really take the time to assess the flow of preparation items like you would a manufacturing assembly line. If you start with the cups and then proceed to the ice maker and finally finish at the bar sink, you should have your bar layout reflect that logical order. These elements may seem insignificant, but you will appreciate them later on when you realize how much more efficient your bar is.