Bar design: your ultimate guide

When you’re designing a bar, what are the key aspects you need to consider? In this ultimate guide, we’ll answer your questions in the following areas:

• Bar design overview
• Bar design process & aims
• Bar design need-to-knows
• Bar design features & aesthetics
• Bar design accessibility & sustainability
• Bar design & countertop creation

Bar design overview

What is bar design?

Bar design refers to planning, creating, and arranging your bar space’s layout, aesthetic appearance, and functional aspects. 

It encompasses elements from the overall theme and ambience to the furniture, lighting, colour schemes, and your bar’s layout. 

The goal is to create an inviting, comfortable, and efficient environment for patrons to enjoy their drinks and socialise, while also maximising operational efficiency for staff and business profitability. 

Bar design is a comprehensive process that involves collaboration among:

• Architects
• Interior designers
• Bar owners
• Specialised consultants
• Bar countertop manufacturers

All collaborate to create spaces that are both attractive to customers and functional for your business.

Why do you need a bar design?

A well-thought-out bar design is crucial for the success of your business for several reasons:

• Maximum efficiency: Efficiency in a bar setting considers the operational aspects and the customer experience. 

A well-designed bar allows your staff to work more efficiently, reducing the time it takes to serve each customer, which is essential during peak hours. This includes strategic placement of equipment, adequate storage, and a layout that minimises unnecessary movement. 

Efficient design can significantly reduce labour costs and improve service speed, directly impacting profitability.

• Making money: Effective bar design directly influences your business’s ability to generate revenue. This encompasses operational efficiency and creating an environment that encourages customers to stay longer and spend more. 

Elements such as comfortable seating, appealing decor, and the right atmosphere can increase the likelihood of your customers ordering additional rounds or opting for higher-priced drinks and food options. 

A distinctive design can serve as a marketing tool, attracting customers through word-of-mouth or social media.

• Maximum customer capacity: The layout and design of your bar play a significant role in determining how many customers the space can comfortably accommodate at any given time. 

Efficient use of space ensures you serve the maximum number of patrons without compromising comfort or safety. This includes considerations for seating arrangements, standing areas, and clear pathways for both customers and staff. 

Balancing maximum capacity with a comfortable and enjoyable environment is key to retaining customers and encouraging repeat business.

• Attracting and retaining customers: A unique and appealing design can serve as a significant differentiator in a competitive market. Bars that offer a memorable experience are more likely to attract first-time visitors and turn them into regular customers. 

Your bar design can also help to target a specific demographic. For example, you might be a sports bar with multiple screens for sports enthusiasts or a cocktail lounge that appeals to a more upscale clientele.

Compliance and safety: Your well-designed bar considers compliance with UK regulations and safety standards, including accessibility for people with disabilities, fire safety, and emergency exits. See more on this later in the guide, or go straight to the section by clicking here.

What types of spaces need bar design?

Your venue has its own identity and target audience, so you’ll have unique requirements for your bar. Below are the typical needs establishments have from their bars and the top benefits:

Cocktail bar Enhances the ambience to match sophisticated drinks, with a design that supports complex drink preparation and efficient bartender workflow.	Bar counter design for hotels Complements hotel branding, serving as an amenity that attracts guests and locals with its unique design.
Residential Integrates with home decor, focusing on personal taste, efficiency, and customised storage for entertaining at home.	Bar design for restaurants  Acts as an extension of the restaurant, offering a space for drinks and casual dining that matches the restaurant’s theme.
Brewpubs and taprooms Showcases the brewing process with a layout that encourages interaction and tasting in a comfortable setting.	Sports bars Ensures TV screen visibility in a casual environment decorated with sports memorabilia for watching events.
Bar counter design for clubs Creates an immersive experience with dynamic lighting and sound, focusing on dance floors and efficient bar service in a loud setting.	Event spaces Offers versatile and mobile bar solutions that can adapt to various events, ensuring customisation and scalability for different occasions.

What types of bars are there?

Full-bar systems

Full-bar systems offer all alcoholic beverages, including spirits, wine, and beer, and store the equipment and garnishes for cocktail preparation. 

Designed to be permanent, they feature extensive storage, refrigeration, and specialised areas for mixing and serving drinks, catering to all customer preferences.

Mobile bars

Mobile bars are perfect for catering events, festivals, and private parties. They can be set up in various locations, offering a selection of drinks tailored to an event’s theme or requirements. Mobile bars often incorporate wheels or are built into vehicles for easy transportation.

These bars need specific design and material considerations. 

Portable bars

Portable bars are lightweight, collapsible, and easy to transport, making them ideal for temporary event setups, such as weddings, corporate events, or outdoor gatherings. They can be equipped to serve a wide range of drinks, from simple cocktails to sophisticated spirits.

Similarly to mobile bars, these need specific design and material considerations. 

Multi-station bars

Multi-station bars have multiple serving areas to reduce wait times. They are commonly found in high-volume venues like nightclubs, concert halls, and large events, allowing bartenders to work simultaneously without crowding. These bars optimise service speed and can improve customer satisfaction.

Themed bars

Theme bars focus on a specific concept, such as sports, music genres, historical periods, or cultural events. They offer a unique, often playful, atmosphere and typically create drink menus that align with the theme, enhancing the overall customer experience through immersive decor and entertainment.

Bar design process & aims

What is the process of bar design?

The following outlines our bar design process here at Volund. 

This process sees us work alongside bar owners, interior designers, architects, consultants and furniture manufacturers to ensure that your final design is aesthetic, functional and compliant with regulations.

1. Concept & design collaboration

Refine your vision: We work closely with you to understand your bar’s concept, theme, and target audience. Our team then uses market research and trend analysis to ensure your design resonates and stands out.

Budget guidance: We help you allocate your budget effectively, considering construction, furniture, equipment, décor, permits, and – importantly – custom metalwork.

3D visualisation: Our skilled designers use CAD software to create stunning 3D models of your bar, including intricate metal elements like the bar top, backsplash, and shelving. This allows you to visualise the space, experiment with layouts, and make informed decisions before construction begins.

1. Design & construction

Space optimisation: We analyse your space using CAD, ensuring optimal traffic flow, accessibility, and functionality for both staff and guests. Our designs use every square foot efficiently, maximising seating, service areas, and storage.

Custom metalwork design: We use CAD to meticulously design your bar’s unique metal elements, ensuring perfect dimensions, seamless integration, and aesthetics. Imagine a hand-crafted zinc bar top with your logo subtly etched in, or a bespoke copper backsplash that complements your lighting scheme – all brought to life with precision through CAD.

Streamlined construction: By providing detailed CAD drawings and specifications to contractors, we eliminate errors and rework during construction, saving you time and money.

1. Creating your vision

Style & material selection: We help you choose materials that reflect your brand identity and vision, considering durability and budget. CAD renderings showcase how different materials and finishes interact with your lighting and branding elements.

Seamless branding integration: Your logo, colours, and branding elements are incorporated into the design using CAD tools, ensuring a cohesive and recognisable identity throughout your bar. Imagine your logo elegantly integrated into the bar top design or subtly woven into the metalwork patterns.

Immersive atmosphere: We use CAD to design a lighting scheme that complements your chosen materials and branding, creating the perfect ambience for your target audience.

1. Finishing touches

Craftsmanship: Our team of skilled metalworkers handcrafts each custom metal element based on your precise CAD designs, ensuring quality and attention to detail.

Project management: We oversee the construction process, ensuring everything adheres to the CAD plans, budget, and timeline.

Final touches: We perform thorough testing and adjustments before launch, ensuring your bar functions how you envisioned.

What should the aims be for my bar design?

Aim: Customer appeal

• Experiential focus: Your guests are looking for an experience. This includes creating good memories and having photogenic spots within your bar for social media shares. Design your space with unique, visually appealing elements that encourage guests to capture and share their experience.
• Varied seating options: Provide a range of seating options to accommodate different preferences and group sizes, from bar stools and high tables for socialising to cosy booths and comfortable lounge areas for those seeking a more intimate setting.
• Convenience features: Install hooks under bars and tables for coats and bags, adding a layer of convenience and security for guests. This small detail can significantly enhance your customer’s experience by addressing a common annoyance.
• Entertainment options: Offer a variety of entertainment options, from live music and DJ sets to trivia nights and sports broadcasts. This caters to guests looking for more than just a dining experience and can attract different demographics.
• Flexible payment options: Make starting a tab easy and hassle-free. Consider implementing digital solutions that allow guests to open, view, and close their tabs from their smartphones, enhancing the convenience and safety of the payment process.
• Catering to non-diners: Acknowledge that not all guests will want to eat. Provide a comfortable environment for those who are there just to drink or socialise. This can include bar snacks or a well-curated drink menu that can stand on its own.
• Casual seating alternatives: In addition to traditional seating, offer more casual, informal seating arrangements, such as communal tables, outdoor lounges, or even swing chairs and hammocks, where space and theme permit. These options can create a more relaxed, social atmosphere that encourages guests to linger and enjoy.

Aim: Operational efficiency

• Workstation & assembly lines: Inspired by Henry Ford’s revolutionary assembly line, where the production time of a car was reduced from 12 hours to 2.5 hours, a bar can adopt a similar approach. 

By organising your bar into a series of efficient workstations, raw materials (in this case, ingredients for drinks) enter at one end and move systematically through the space. This systematic approach minimises waste and maximises productivity.

• Bar workstation design: Each bar station should be a self-contained unit with all the necessary tools, ingredients, and glassware to make any drink without your bartender needing to take more than two steps, mimicking the efficiency of an assembly line. 

This setup prevents bartenders from crossing paths unnecessarily, reducing the chance of accidents and ensuring a smooth workflow. The ideal movement for your bartender is side to side, allowing them to remain at their station while accessing everything they need.

• Foot traffic: Managing foot traffic is crucial in a bar to avoid bottlenecks and ensure both staff and customers can move freely. 

This involves thoughtful placement of bar stations, seating, and walkways to streamline movement and enhance your customer experience.

• Flexible Spaces: Designing flexible spaces within your bar allows for adaptation to different events, crowd sizes, and functions. 

This could mean modular furniture that can be rearranged or areas that can be expanded or sectioned off as needed. Flexibility in design ensures that your bar can cater to various occasions without requiring significant layout changes.

Aim: Making money

• Increased service speed: Efficiently designed workstations allow your bartenders to serve customers faster, reducing wait times and increasing the volume of sales during peak hours. Faster service often leads to higher customer satisfaction and increased sales.
• Reduced waste: A well-organised bar reduces waste of ingredients and time, contributing to lower operating costs and higher profit margins.
• Optimised use of space: By increasing the functionality of each area within your bar, you can ensure that you get the most out of your square footage. Efficient use of space can mean more customers served and higher overall revenue.

Aim: Great staffing strategy

• Adaptive staffing levels: Your bar should have the ability to adjust the number of staff manning the bar based on expected traffic. You may typically only have one bartender during off-peak hours and more during peak times.

However, this is only possible if your bar is designed well enough that one person can keep on top of all their tasks.

• Back of bar layout: Bar backs are crucial for maintaining efficiency, responsible for restocking, cleaning, and sometimes assisting in drink preparation.

The design of your bar, especially the depth and backbar space (ideally between 20” to 30” deep), should facilitate their work without interfering with bartenders’ operations.

Aim: Equipment & storage layout

• Glassware storage: Store glassware at the back of the bar at shoulder height to allow for effortless reach without strain. This positioning helps prevent injuries and speeds up drink preparation.
• Ice bin placement: An under-bar ice bin should be positioned at an optimal height for easy scooping. This prevents your staff from having to bend or stoop, reducing the risk of back injuries.
• Speed rail organisation: The speed rail should contain the most frequently used liquors, adhering to the guideline of stocking bottles used more than three times per shift. This setup minimises movement and search time, enhancing efficiency.

Comfort measures: Place cushioned floor mats behind your bar to reduce fatigue from standing. This small investment significantly improves staff comfort, potentially reducing the risk of leg and back problems.

Where do you get inspiration for your bar design?

1. Drawing Inspiration

• Travel and exploration: Visiting bars, cafes, and restaurants both locally and internationally can provide a wealth of design ideas. Take note of unique themes, layouts, and features that enhance your customer experience.
• Design and architecture platforms: Websites like Pinterest, Instagram, Houzz, and ArchDaily showcase a wide range of design projects and can be excellent sources of inspiration. Use these platforms to explore the latest trends in bar and interior design.
• Historical and cultural research: Drawing inspiration from history or specific cultures can lead to a unique and compelling bar theme. This could involve anything from a Prohibition-era speakeasy to a bar centred around a specific cultural concept or period.
• Nature and environment: Incorporating elements of nature into your design can create a refreshing and inviting atmosphere. Consider biophilic design principles, which focus on human connections to the natural world, to inspire your layout, material choices, and decor.

2. Understanding Your Space

• Space limitations and possibilities: Assess the physical dimensions, shape, and existing architectural features of your space. This understanding will guide what is feasible in terms of your layout, design elements, and capacity.
• Lighting: The natural and artificial lighting within your space will significantly impact the mood and ambience. Use lighting creatively to highlight architectural features, create cosy corners, or set the mood.

3. Look at your competitors

• Study the competition: Visit competing bars and note what they do well and where they might be lacking. This can provide insights into what attracts patrons and what might make your bar stand out.
• Identify gaps: Look for unmet needs or underrepresented themes in your local market. A gap could represent an opportunity for your bar to offer something unique.

4. Innovation and Uniqueness

• What hasn’t been done: Think about concepts that are underexplored or entirely new. This might involve innovative use of technology, sustainability practices, or interactive experiences.

Customer feedback and trends: Engage with potential customers through surveys or social media to understand their preferences and interests. Keeping an eye on emerging lifestyle and consumption trends can also spark innovative ideas.

Bar design need-to-knows

How do you choose the most profitable type of bar countertop?

Think about initial cost vs. long-term value

Your initial outlay is an important consideration. However, you should also think about the value your bar adds in terms of durability, maintenance, and appeal to your target market. Investing in a high-quality countertop can reduce long-term costs related to maintenance and replacement.

Consider material choice

Wood

• Hardwoods (Oak, Maple, Cherry): Offer natural beauty with unique grain patterns. They bring warmth and a traditional look to any bar. Hardwoods are durable but require regular maintenance (oiling, sealing) to protect against water and stains.
• Reclaimed wood: Eco-friendly and imbued with character, reclaimed wood can add a rustic or vintage feel. Its history and uniqueness are a conversation starter.

Metal

• Stainless steel: Highly durable, resistant to heat and hygienic; it’s a favourite in commercial environments. Stainless steel’s sleek look suits modern and industrial designs but can show fingerprints and scratches.
• Copper countertops: Offers a unique, warm aesthetic that develops a patina over time, adding character. Copper has natural antimicrobial properties but is softer and may dent more easily.
• Zinc: Develops a beautiful patina that can add depth and character to bar spaces. It’s antibacterial and requires minimal upkeep, though it can react with acids and tarnish.

Stone

• Granite: Highly durable and available in a wide range of colours and patterns. Granite resists heat and scratches and requires sealing to prevent stains.
• Marble worktop: Offers unparalleled beauty and luxury, with unique veining. However, marble is porous, making it susceptible to stains and scratches unless regularly sealed.
• Quartz (Engineered Stone): Combines natural quartz with resin for a highly durable, non-porous surface. It’s available in many colours and patterns, resembling natural stone without the same level of maintenance.

Concrete

• Concrete: Customisable in shape, colour, and finish. Concrete countertops are durable and can fit various design aesthetics, from industrial to modern. They need to be sealed to resist stains and water.

Synthetic & composite materials

• Laminate: Cost-effective and available in various colours and patterns. Laminate is low maintenance but can be prone to scratching and is not heat resistant.
• Solid surface (Corian, etc.): Offers seamless integration and a wide array of colours and designs. These countertops are non-porous and can mimic the appearance of natural stone, wood, or concrete. They’re durable but can be susceptible to heat damage.

Glass

• Recycled glass: Eco-friendly and visually striking, recycled glass countertops are durable, heat-resistant, and easy to clean. They can be customised with various colours and textures.

Epoxy resin

• Epoxy resin: Provides a glossy, seamless finish that can be customised with colours and patterns. It’s durable, waterproof, and heat-resistant but can scratch and may yellow over time under UV exposure.

What material design features do you need?

Ease of cleaning Smooth surfaces without intricate details are preferable for quick and efficient cleaning.

Edge design Rounded edges are not only safer but also contribute to a modern and sleek appearance.

Integrated features Consider integrating sinks, ice bins, and drainage areas into your countertop design for efficiency and to keep the bar looking tidy.

 

What features typically make up a bar?

Here’s what is typically included in a well-equipped bar station, keeping in mind the unique needs of your establishment:

Universal components

• Waste basket: Essential for disposing of trash and used garnishes to keep your bar area clean.
• Dump sink: Used for discarding ice and liquid waste, helping bartenders quickly clear and clean glasses.
• 3-bin sink: Typically required for washing, rinsing, and sanitising barware in establishments without a commercial glass washer. It’s essential for hygiene and health code compliance.
• Glass washer: An efficient tool for cleaning glasses quickly, ensuring a steady supply of clean glassware during busy times.
• Drain board: Provides a space for placing wet glasses to dry and can also be used for staging drinks that are ready to serve.
• Soda gun: Allows for quick access to various soda mixes, essential for making a wide range of mixed drinks.
• Speed rails: Conveniently hold the most commonly used spirit bottles, enabling bartenders to quickly grab and pour ingredients.
• Ice bin: Essential for storing a large amount of ice within easy reach for drink preparation.
• Blender station: Necessary for making frozen or blended drinks, particularly popular in venues serving tropical or mixed cocktails.
• POS terminal: Enables efficient order taking and processing right at the bar, speeding up transactions and ensuring accurate sales tracking.

Venue-Specific Considerations

• Pizzerias: You may prioritise easy access to beer taps and refrigeration for beer bottles, given the higher beer sales (typically 60%) compared to wine (20%) and spirits (20%).
• Steakhouses: Likely to feature an extensive wine storage and display, along with a broader selection of spirits for cocktails that complement your menu.
• Nightclubs: Focus on efficient service of a wide range of cocktails, often with a larger number of speed rails and blender stations to cater to high-volume, complex drink orders.
• Sports bars: Similar to nightclubs in the need for efficient service, you may also emphasise beer taps and large-screen POS systems for quick order processing during busy game days.

Further considerations

• Backbar: Shelving behind the bar for displaying spirits, wines, and other beverages not only adds to your aesthetic but also allows for easy access to less frequently used ingredients.
• Refrigeration: For keeping beer, wine, and certain spirits chilled, as well as storing fresh ingredients like fruits and juices.
• Garnish stations: Dedicated areas for storing and prepping fresh garnishes, such as lemons, limes, and herbs, are crucial for efficient drink preparation.

What are the components of a bar?

Front bar

Bar top: The main surface where drinks are served to your customers. It needs to be durable and easy to clean.

Bar wall: The vertical face under your bar top, which can be decorated or used for branding.

Bar rail: A moulding on the edge of your bar top where customers can rest their arms.

Foot rail: A horizontal bar near the bottom of the front bar where customers can rest their feet. It adds comfort for those standing or sitting on high stools.

Back Bar

Glass rail: A shelf or railing on the back bar used to hang stemware or place glasses upside down for easy access.

Drip edge: A grooved or angled strip along the back edge of your bar top designed to catch spills and prevent them from dripping onto your bartender’s side or the floor.

Back bar: The shelving unit behind your bar top where bottles, glassware, and other bar essentials are displayed and stored.

Under-bar

The under-bar workstation for your staff. This area includes storage and equipment designed to maximise efficiency for bartenders, such as:

• Ice bins: For storing ice within easy reach.
• Speed rails: Metal racks that hold the most frequently used liquor bottles.
• Waste bins: For disposing of trash and used garnishes.
• Sinks: For washing hands and utensils, often including a dump sink for disposing of liquid waste and a 3-bin sink for washing, rinsing, and sanitising glassware if a glass washer isn’t used.
• Glass washer: A machine or area designated for quickly cleaning glassware.

Are there bar design regulations you need to be aware of?

While specific requirements may vary depending on your local authority, here are some general guidelines that typically apply:

Height requirements

The minimum height requirement for bar counters is typically 1100 mm above the finished floor level (AFFL), aligning with the average height of a commercial bar, which ranges from 1000 to 1100mm. 

This standard ensures that your bar is accessible and comfortable for most customers, including those standing or seated on bar stools.

Overhang and seating

A 25-30cm (10-12 inches) overhang is recommended to provide comfortable knee room and adequate space for patrons seated at your bar. This consideration is crucial for ensuring comfort over extended periods.

When selecting stools, it’s important to leave a 25-30cm gap between the seat of the stool and the underside of the counter. This spacing allows for comfortable seating and effortless movement, accommodating a wide range of body sizes.

Accessibility and inclusivity

Compliance with the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) and the Equality Act 2010 is essential. These acts require that design and layout consider the needs of individuals with disabilities, ensuring that your bar area is accessible to everyone. 

This includes considerations for wheelchair access, clear signage, and the provision of alternative ordering and service methods for those with mobility or sensory impairments.

Material and safety

While specific materials are not mandated, choices should comply with Building Regulations related to fire safety and hygiene. 

Surfaces should be durable, easy to clean, and non-porous to prevent the harbouring of bacteria and ensure the safety and well-being of patrons and staff.

General design considerations

You should also consider ergonomics and workflow efficiency for your staff, ensuring that the workspace allows for a smooth operation that can handle peak service times effectively. This includes the strategic placement of sinks, ice bins, speed rails, and POS systems.

Fire safety and emergency egress are critical, with design layouts requiring clear pathways for evacuation and compliance with local fire safety regulations

Design & aesthetics

Making your bar look good involves a thoughtful combination of functional design, aesthetic appeal, and brand consistency. 

Here’s how to address each aspect to create an inviting and memorable space:

Bar Seating

Stools or bar height chairs: The choice between stools and bar height chairs depends on your desired atmosphere and customer comfort.

Stools are ideal for more casual, social settings. They take up less space, allowing more seating at your bar. Stools can be with or without backs; those with backs offer more support and comfort for longer stays.

Bar height chairs provide greater comfort and support, making them suitable for establishments aiming for a more upscale, relaxed vibe. They are larger and more visually imposing, contributing significantly to your bar’s aesthetic.

Glassware

High-quality, stylish glassware not only enhances the presentation of drinks but also contributes to the overall decor. Consider unique shapes and styles that align with your bar’s theme—elegant stemware for a sophisticated wine bar, or quirky mugs for a craft beer pub.

Branding

Branding should be seamlessly integrated into your design. Use your brand logo, colours, and personality throughout the space, from the menu design to the staff uniforms, to strengthen your brand identity and create a strong, recognisable image.

Lighting

Lighting is key to creating an atmosphere. Use a mix of overhead, accent, and task lighting to illuminate different areas effectively while adding character and depth to the space.

Bar design accessibility & sustainability

Ensuring both accessibility and sustainability in bar design and countertops involves thoughtful planning and your selection of materials and features that meet these criteria. Here are practical ways to achieve both:

Accessibility in bar design and countertops

• Height and clearance: Follow guidelines for accessible design by ensuring that part of the bar counter is at a height accessible to individuals in wheelchairs, typically 760 to 860 mm (30 to 34 inches) from the floor. Additionally, ensure clear knee space underneath for comfortable seating.
• Pathways and space: Ensure wide pathways (at least 36 inches wide) around your bar area to accommodate wheelchairs and mobility devices. Tables should also be spaced to allow easy navigation.
• Accessible seating options: Provide seating options of varying heights, including lower tables that are accessible to wheelchair users.
• Tactile and visual cues: Incorporate tactile indicators on the floor to guide visually impaired patrons to your bar or seating areas. Use contrasting colours for countertops and edges to help delineate spaces for those with low vision.

Sustainability in Bar Design and Countertops

• Material choices: Opt for sustainable materials for bar countertops, such as recycled glass, reclaimed wood, or sustainably sourced stone. These materials not only reduce environmental impact but also add character and uniqueness to your design.
• Energy efficiency: Choose energy-efficient LED lighting for your bar area. LEDs use less electricity and have a longer lifespan than traditional bulbs. Incorporating natural light where possible can also reduce energy consumption during the day.
• Water conservation: Install low-flow faucets and appliances in your bar area to reduce water usage. Consider systems that recycle greywater for non-potable uses, like flushing toilets.
• Sustainable practices: Integrate practices such as composting organic waste and recycling glass, paper, and plastic. Use digital menus or menus made from recycled materials to minimise waste.

Combining Accessibility and Sustainability

• Inclusive and eco-friendly furniture: Select furniture made from recycled or sustainable materials that also accommodate a range of body sizes and abilities. For example, chairs and tables made from reclaimed wood designed with accessibility in mind.
• Energy-efficient, accessible equipment: Use appliances and technology that are both energy-efficient and accessible. For example, touchscreen POS systems that can be adjusted for height and are intuitive for users with various abilities.
• Sustainable and low-impact finishes: Choose finishes (paints, varnishes) that are low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs) to improve indoor air quality, benefiting all patrons, including those with respiratory sensitivities.
• Community and supplier engagement: Source materials and products from local suppliers to reduce your carbon footprint and support your community. Engage with suppliers who also prioritise accessibility in their products and services.

Bar countertop design & creation

1. Where to find experts

• Interior Designers: Look for interior designers with experience in commercial spaces, especially those who specialise in hospitality design. Websites like the British Institute of Interior Design (BIID) allow you to search for qualified professionals.
• Architectural firms: Firms that specialise in commercial architecture often have in-house designers or collaborate with interior designers who have experience in bar and restaurant design.
• Specialised bar design firms: Some firms and consultants specialise in bar and hospitality design. They can offer turnkey solutions, from conceptual design to the execution of interiors and countertops.
• Trade shows and exhibitions: Attend trade shows related to hospitality, interior design, and materials. These events are great opportunities to meet professionals and suppliers, gather ideas, and source materials.
• Online platforms: Websites like Houzz, Architizer, and Dezeen showcase portfolios of design and architecture professionals, including those with bar design expertise.
• Countertop manufacturers: For custom countertops, look for manufacturers or workshops specialising in commercial countertops. They can provide valuable advice on material selection, durability, and maintenance.

2. Expected Cost

The cost of bar design creation and countertop manufacturing in the UK can vary widely based on several factors, including the size of the space, the complexity of your design, the materials selected, and the location of your property. 

Here’s a rough breakdown:

Design fees

Interior design services can range from £50 to £150 per hour or more, with total project fees often quoted as a percentage of your overall project cost (typically between 10% and 20%). For a full bar design project, this can mean anywhere from a few thousand to tens of thousands of pounds, depending on your scope.

Countertop costs

The material and complexity of your design significantly influence the cost. For example:

• Laminate countertops might cost between £50 and £100 per square metre.
• Granite or quartz can range from £200 to £500 per square metre or more for high-end materials.
• Sustainable materials (like recycled glass or reclaimed wood) may have a premium price due to their eco-friendly nature and processing requirements, often similar to or slightly higher than conventional high-end materials.

Manufacturing and installation

Custom fabrication and installation services can add to the cost, depending on the complexity of the installation and your location. 

Installation costs can range from a few hundred to several thousand pounds.

Ready to craft your bespoke bar design?

Transform your vision into a reality with Volund’s bespoke metal countertops. 

Our expert designers and skilled metalworkers, empowered by cutting-edge CAD/CAM technology, will create a unique and functional bar that exceeds expectations.

Schedule a design consultation to discuss your vision and explore the possibilities for your bar’s unique metalwork.

Get in touch with our team today.