The advantages of a home bar are obvious. It provides a convenient space for you to entertain your guests, serves as another area of the home where you can relax and unwind, and takes the look (and value) of your space to a sophisticated, elevated level.

Home bars are becoming more and more popular, making it much easier to find inspiration for creating your own and a wider selection of bar furniture and accessories to complete your setup. To ensure you get the most out of your bar, in terms of both design and function, use these tips below to start your planning and bring your new entertainment space to life!

1) Choose your location carefully.

Theoretically, you could make a bar work in almost any area of the house—the basement, living room, dining room, back patio, etc. The key to choosing the right location is to consider both technical and functional factors when making your decision.

First, think about your practical bar needs, including electricity for lights and appliances, plumbing for sink and any fridge/freezer connections, ventilation, and physical space. Then, consider your functional needs. Where do you usually entertain friends? Do you prefer to hangout inside or outside? Do you want your bar to be close to other features of your home, such as a media space, bathroom, or pool/hot tub, for example? These are all questions you need to answer before you even start planning your design.

2) Set a budget.

It’s easy to get caught up in the fun of building a home bar and go overboard with luxury features and materials. That’s why it’s best to determine how much you are willing and realistically able to spend from the beginning. You’re more likely to stay within your price range this way and create a home bar that won’t break the bank.

As you’re budgeting for your bar, take into account what you’ll need to buy first. For example, work you’ll need to hire out for vs. work you can do yourself, any building materials, furnishings, accessories and décor, appliances, and bar supplies are all items you will need for a functioning home bar. Then, move on to the features you want your home bar to have, listing them from most to least important. Allocate your remaining budget after covering your needs to your top wants.

3) Decide on what style you want to go with.

There are a lot of different directions you can go when it comes to the design elements of your bar. You could go with something modern, traditional, elegant, minimalist, rustic—the list goes on and on. Whatever style you choose, it should be something that works cohesively with the rest of your space but still stands out.

An at-home bar should be the focal point of a room without clashing with any of your other interior design elements. Don’t be afraid to get creative and add personality. Experiment with unexpected decorative accents, bold color schemes, and a mix of finishes and materials to create an inviting, eye-catching space.

4) But don’t sacrifice function for aesthetic.

When planning out your home bar design, keep in mind the elements you’ll need to make your bar as functional as possible too. Consider things like space for ample seating, a bar shape and size that provides enough space to work, and storage for your supplies.

You should take advantage of vertical space to optimize the layout of your home bar. Wall cabinetry or floating shelves, for example, are perfect for creating an attractive display of your spirits or barware that doubles as storage.

5) Be smart about the materials you use.

The materials you use to build your bar should be selected carefully. You want them to be attractive, but also durable. A bar is very similar to a kitchen in terms of functional needs, so consider what you would and wouldn’t use in that type of space. Your furnishings need to be able to withstand wear and the damage that often occurs in eating and drinking spaces (spills that stain, acidic citrus juices, moisture buildup, chopping garnishes, prepping snacks).

It’s best to use hard, sturdy materials for your counter surfaces, such as hard wood, quartzite, or granite. Save the more vulnerable materials, such as glass, soft woods, or vinyl, for things like wall accents or decorative features.

At Sherwood Studios, we carry a wide selection of home bar furniture to help you serve and enjoy your drinks in style. You’ll find bars, carts, stools, lighting, and decorative accents for every style and vision to create a bar space that is uniquely yours. If you need help planning, our interior designers can work with you to make your ideas a reality.

Browse our furniture collections online today or get in touch with our team to make an appointment at our West Bloomfield showroom!

10 Things to Know About a Bar Table

by RECARDO JOHNCLARKE

You might enjoy hitting the clubs and drinking cocktails. Perhaps you prefer casual nights out with your friends. Regardless of your preference, you’ve surely encountered a round bar table. 

These furniture pieces have expanded their popularity from commercial coffeehouses to residential premises. If you think of adding them to your home, check out this detailed bar table guide. It reveals all the details about these items and debunk myths to ensure you have the right information. Here are the critical facts about bar tables!

1. What Is a Bar Table?

Bar tables are special types of these furniture pieces designed to be at a specific height. Some also call it pub or countertop tables. While there are subtle differences, the critical thing to remember is the height difference.

The most common bar tables are approximately 40 inches tall. Their initial use was in coffee shops, restaurants, and similar facilities. The idea to increase table height was to make things more convenient for the bartender. The experience showed taller tables also boost socialization. You can sit and talk with the guests around you.

 2. You Can Stand or Sit at a Bar Table

If you go to a club, you often stand around a round bar table. It’s a space-saving combination that allows more people to be in a single unit. But in residential homes, this is not a common occurrence. You can use this setup for garages, entryway pub tables, and other compact locations.

The alternative is to get a round bar height table and chairs. Many manufacturers make matching sets to make the selection easier. You could keep the price lower by purchasing an entire collection. But if you feel creative or prefer choosing for yourself, don’t hesitate to buy the items separately. It allows the mixing of different colors and materials for the table and chairs.

 3. A Round Bar Table Isn’t the Only Shape

If you mention a pub table, most people associate it with round units in bars. It’s the most popular shape for its convenience. It can fit most people in a bar, especially if they are standing. The round form is perfect for compact areas. It won’t attract attention and overwhelm the room. Moreover, it’s common for it to have only one leg. That minimizes the footprint.

Apart from a round bar height table, you can try these shapes:

• Square. It’s a frequent option for dining table replacements. Squared units can accommodate four persons, and each will have the same space available. Alternatively, you can save room by putting it in the corner.

• Rectangular. The advantage of his shape is its suitability for narrow and elongated spaces. Rectangular bar tables can go above sofas or next to walls. They follow other items and fit the décor seamlessly.

• Unique designs. Manufacturers often get creative with bar table appearances. Oval and triangle designs have become a standard. The market offers unusual and irregular shapes. These tables are perfect as focal points.

4. Material Quality Can Vary

The rule that applies to most products is also valid for a bar height round table. These furniture pieces feature different materials, and that affects quality.

Here’s an overview of the compounds the manufacturers use:

• Aluminum. It’s the most common metal used for bar table frames. Aluminum is durable and light, ensuring high portability. Paints and finishes will depend on the table. Apart from the frame, you might see aluminum on top surfaces. It’s an entry-range and inexpensive option suitable for the outdoors.

• Other metals. Cast iron is pricey but incredibly stable and durable. Zinc and other metals could also serve as frames and top surfaces. They contribute to feeling like you are in a pub. These compounds are easy to clean.

• Solid wood. It’s the highest-quality material, often used only for top surfaces. Common choices include pine, beech, oak, etc. They add to the elegance, making them ideal for dining rooms. Solid wood fits modern and traditional designs. Apart from its natural look, solid wood features incredible strength. However, it’s not resistant to water or heat, so maintenance is demanding.

• MDF. Here’s another affordable material with a beautiful appearance. It’s durable, simple to maintain, and available in different shades. The problem is that it’s vulnerable to scratches and heat.

• Laminate wood. Manufacturers use resin to keep together a string of synthetic compounds and melamine chipboards. While they aren’t as durable as MDF, laminate materials are simple to maintain.

• Stone. It’s rare to find tables made of stone. They are expensive but original. The material will last for decades, and it’s resistant to heat.

 5. Bar Tables Are a Casual Dining Option

Do you find yourself having meals in a hurry often? If yes, you might be tired of setting up the dining table and clearing it once you finish. A bar table is an ideal replacement for casual meals. It’s enough to grab a tray and eat while sitting on a comfortable stool. 

Bar tables are ideal for times when you are in a rush. You can make it more formal and use it as a primary dining option. Industrial pub tables with a unique design ensure a more elegant appearance.

And even if you have a formal dining table, there’s still room for a bar height unit. You can use the former for Sunday lunch or when hosting friends. And when you eat by yourself, a bar height dining table round or another shape can be your preference. You can even place it as the kitchen nook, especially in compact apartments.

 6. You Can Adjust the Height, But Not the Size

Some bar tables come with multiple height settings. These include extension poles or another method to change the altitude. The usual height is approximately 40 inches. Please note that you won’t be able to lower it much. Getting it down or up by several inches should be the max option, although extension poles could increase maneuvering room.

But while you can adjust the height, there’s no option to change the size. Make sure to choose a suitable bar height round table and chairs for the desired location. It’s best to see how much space you have available. Don’t forget about the importance of unobstructed foot traffic. Once you have the dimensions, you’ll know which tables should be your focus.

 7. Some Bar Tables Come with Storage Compartments

You’ll notice some models offer storage room for additional functionality. These usually feature a square or rectangular shape. It’s hard to place a drawer or storage compartment on a round table.

Depending on the model, it could have single or multiple sections to put away stuff. The usual concept is to secure only a drawer or two. Some manufacturers sell storage compartments as separate accessories. You can order them to match the table and put them underneath it. It’s convenient since you can remove the storage to get extra foot space when necessary.

 8. Bar Tables Fit any Décor

Are you envisioning a beautiful home with traditional décor? Perhaps you are redecorating and making a modern room? Either way, a bar table would be an excellent fit. You have a vast range of materials, colors, and finishes. It allows the table to be the room’s focal point but is also a convenient seating addition.

If you stick with classic decors, choose the natural wooden finish. It’ll give a simple but elegant look. But if you want a modern table, white and black paint are excellent options. They are easy to combine with other items and secure that contemporary touch.

 9. Bar Tables Are Ideal for Any Room

The article covered dining options, but you can put a bar table anywhere. Did you make a game room with a billiard table? Are you building a man cave to gather the crew to watch sports? Pub tables are the perfect addition. It’s convenient for storing your drinks and ensures generous seating options.

You can put bar tables in your home office. These can double as working spaces. Focus on units big enough to place your laptop. A storage compartment could be beneficial for documents. Alternatively,  put a compact rectangular bar table in the entryway. You can put the keys as soon as you come in. It ensures you never forget an essential item or chase it around the house.

10. It’s the Perfect Outdoor Companion

Having people over for a barbecue party goes perfect with a bar table. You can add multiple units to your backyard and be ready to host a large crowd quickly. 

Alternatively, a bar table could be a relaxing area on your patio. You can create a secluded and romantic atmosphere with a stunning view of your yard. But don’t forget to assess the weather factors. If the table is water and heat-resistant, you can put it anywhere. But if it doesn’t react well to extreme weather conditions, store it away when you finish using it.

Final Thoughts

Have you decided to add a round bar table to your home? It can be the perfect addition to living and dining rooms, basements, or outdoor areas. However, it’s vital to pick a suitable style. You can check for new arrivals to follow the latest trends when picking furniture. It’ll ensure you get stylish additions and boost your décor. And since you are ordering online, you’ll get the items delivered to your house. There’s no transport hassle, so don’t hesitate to pick your favorite table and order today!