Volund’s guide to the top metals for bespoke bar tops
When you think of a restaurant or bar, your mind is immediately drawn to the bar – but have you ever thought about how the type of metal and design you envision can make a difference to the design and atmosphere of your bar or restaurant?
Bar Tops
One of the most popular choices for bar tops and in our opinion the ideal choice. Pewter is comprised of tin and is a more malleable steel – meaning it is more versatile in terms of design. This type of metal allows for intricate shaping and detailing – although it appears silvery in colour, it’s matted appearance will darken over time creating a timeless effect appearing both modern and classic, made to suit any style of bar. Pewter is a slightly more expensive metal to use, however it’s durability and finish is worth consideration for a long-term investment.
Take a look at the pewter bar top we made for London’s Sky Garden.
Copper bar tops
Another popular choice for bars and restaurants is copper, which is easily stretched and shaped, ideal for creating bespoke bar tops. Copper is an attractive metal and can be provided in both a finished or unfinished look dependant on your interior and vision. Our finished copper bar tops are treated with a synthetic lacquer giving the illusions of a rich, mirror-like appearance and an unfinished copper will provide a duller reflection.
Over-time copper bar tops will darken and change colour as a result of oxidisation, creating an antique patina look which can be very appealing to the eye and considered stylish and fashionable.
Stainless steel
One of the stronger metals used to create a bespoke bar top is stainless steel – it is hard to damage and impossible to scratch or stain, and due it’s sturdiness copes well with extensive use.
Stainless steel is also visually appealing and may suit a more modern interior facing bar or restaurant with a variety of finishes which can be applied to create the end result. So, if there is a particular style you are looking to encompass your interior, this material can be finished to suit your requirements.
Zinc bar tops
Zinc is like copper in that the material is hardwearing and has antibacterial properties which is something to consider when choosing what material to use for your bespoke bar top.
As a less pristine metal, zinc is usually chosen as an alternative to stainless steel as it’s a ‘living metal’ which will change and adapt to its surroundings – it is also naturally porous and only requires to be cleaned with soap and water.
Zinc bar tops are also easy to work with which means we can include decorative edges, shapes and styles to fit your interior and create a showstopping bar your guests will be sure to remember.
Here at Volund, we can create bar tops from a variety of bespoke metals – above we have listed some of the more popular choices but we’d love to talk you through other options if your vision has something a little more unique in mind.
If you’d like to speak to us about creating your very own bespoke bar top, or any other services that we offer, including countertops then please get in touch with us today.