Bar table for the kitchen: perfect combination of work and dining area

The bar table for the kitchen is widely used in modern apartments and country houses. Such a stylish and original piece of furniture can become a real highlight of any interior design. Today there are many configurations of structures that fit perfectly into both a studio apartment and a small kitchen. The correct choice of the product will allow the rational use of the space of the room, increasing its functionality.

A bar table can become a striking design element in any kitchen

What is a bar table: examples of photos of product varieties

Bar counters first appeared in North America, where they were installed in entertainment establishments. The main purpose of the structure was to separate the working area and the rest space. The counter was a partition. Subsequently, its design has been improved, the structure has become more functional. All kinds of shelves, drawers, compartments and compartments for storing dishes, bottles and other elements appeared in it, which is clearly demonstrated by photos of bar counters.

Bar counters come in all sorts of shapes and styles.

Then such tables migrated to catering establishments. Later, the design found its way into modern kitchens, replacing traditional dining tables.

Modern bar counters have various configurations and can be installed in different areas of the room. Such designs for the kitchen are presented in a wide range. Elements can differ in shape, stylistic treatment and color, which allows the product to fit into any style of room decoration.

Bar table for the kitchen: strengths and weaknesses

The design has certain advantages, which makes it in demand both for large studio apartments and for small kitchens. In a cramped room, using a bar counter, you can equip a comfortable work area and equip a comfortable place for eating. This design will take up much less space compared to dining table... In addition, it can serve as a convenient storage system for various kitchen utensils.

Bar tables are compact and with their help you can zone the kitchen space

Useful advice! For a small kitchen, it is recommended to equip a mobile bar with a swivel, retractable or folding mechanism.

For a convenient meal, bar counters in the kitchen are equipped with comfortable high chairs, which, hiding under the countertop, take up a minimum of free space. Such a solution not only looks elegant, stylish and modern, but also allows you to significantly save space, as shown in the photo of modern kitchens with a bar counter and chairs.

In studio apartments or kitchens-living rooms, the bar counter makes it possible to zone the space, dividing the common living area into a work area and a place for rest or receiving guests.

Bar tables are universal, they are suitable for large and small kitchens

However, this design is not without its drawbacks. Children, the elderly and pregnant women are usually extremely uncomfortable climbing into high chairs. The seating position must be stable and equipped with armrests to prevent the possibility of falling and injury.

Useful advice! High bar tables are most appropriate for young families without children or bachelors.

Varieties of bar tables: racks of various configurations

Bar counters in the kitchen, depending on their location, can be wall-mounted, free-standing and adjacent to kitchen furniture. The first option is used for small spaces. The narrow edge of the small tabletop is attached to the wall, and the long edge is positioned so that it can be approached from either side.

A freestanding table is ideal for a large and spacious kitchen.

This solution is usually used when zoning a large room. The bar counter, located parallel to the main furniture, in this case performs many functions. The design is often complemented by a narrow platform that is attached to the side opposite to the workplace. The stand can be installed permanently or be mobile (in this model, the free edge is held on the support). This rack can be folded and unfolded as needed. It will be enough to extend the support for the bar table and fix the tabletop.

The table adjacent to the kitchen furniture is an extension of the main tabletop. The narrow edge is attached to the headset, and the second is supported by the support. Such models are equipped with a functional cornice in which lighting, utensils and other decorative elements are mounted. The counter complements the kitchen unit, making up a single composition with it.

Such a table can be a continuation of the windowsill, which will be an ideal solution for small kitchens. This technique allows you to use the inactive area near the window. There are pull-out bar counters, the size of which can vary depending on the situation.

The bar table, which is a continuation of the table top, looks stylish and original

In large rooms, free-standing bar tables for the kitchen will look beneficial. Island-style racks are most often used for kitchens, hotels or studio apartments. Such models not only zone the room, but also expand its functionality.

Depending on the form of execution, bar counters can be straight, round or semicircular. The first version has a linear design. The design is devoid of right angles and turns, which is ideal for small spaces. The round bar table looks presentable and luxurious. However, this design requires enough free space, so it is appropriate for spacious rooms. A semicircular counter is usually represented by a corner table that fits well into a small room.

Kitchen bar table: design features and advantages

The island bar counter for the kitchen is a multifunctional unit located separately from the kitchen set, which is advisable to install in spacious dwellings. This design combines:

The main plus of the open rack is its sleek and lightweight design

• storage space for kitchen utensils in the form of shelves, cabinets and drawers;
• a cooking area with a hob, oven, sink and dishwasher;
• place of eating.

The working area and the resting place are on opposite sides of the counter, which allows the hostess to simultaneously cook and communicate with guests or household members.

The island bar counter can be open or closed. Since the model is equipped with all kinds of cabinets and shelves, the latter option is distinguished by its bulky appearance and at the same time maximum functionality. The open design does not clutter up space and looks light and sleek. By the form of execution, the island racks are semicircular, L- or U-shaped. The design of the structure is selected taking into account the uniform style of the room, which contributes to the creation of the effect of integrity.

The bar counter can be attached to the work area and create a two-level structure

The classic version of the island-stand is a two-level structure, in which the lower part falls on the working area, and the upper part falls on the main one.

Mobile bar counter for the kitchen: photo of varieties of designs

The bar counter in the kitchen is not only installed permanently. The design can be equipped with a folding, retractable or swivel mechanism, which makes the product mobile. This solution allows you not to clutter up the kitchen area, installing this piece of furniture if necessary. Various product options are presented in the catalogs of bar counters in the kitchen.

The extendable table is a special design that, thanks to a special roller mechanism or castors, provides an increase in the working surface. In the open position, the stand is fixed with a freely moving bar table leg and is level with the table top or can be below it.

Mobile rack of pull-out type - a convenient and compact option for a small kitchen

The swivel structure is located under the tabletop and slides out smoothly thanks to the swivel mechanism. In the open position, a comfortable dining table is organized.

Important! The device of rotary bar counters requires accurate calculations and the involvement of a specialist to install the structure.

A folding bar table is the optimal solution for a large family. When assembled, the structure looks like a compact bedside table. To get a full-fledged dining table, it is enough to put the tabletop on the legs, which is pubescent down. A simplified and budgetary option for a folding design is a folding bar counter, represented by a table top, which is attached to the wall by means of brackets. If necessary, the table is lifted and installed on a hidden leg.

Dimensions of low and high bar tables for the kitchen

The standard height of the bar table is 110-120 cm. This value is used mainly for freestanding island-type structures. The table needs special chairs 85-90 cm high. However, with this size of the tabletop, it will be inconvenient to cook. To do this, you can purchase a structure with a height of 100-110 cm and chairs with a size of 75-80 cm.

As a rule, the height of the bar tables for the kitchen varies from 90 to 135 cm

For models combined with a kitchen set, the height of the countertop does not exceed 90 cm. This value is due to the standard dimensions of the furniture. In this case, it is enough that the height of the chairs reaches 60-70 cm.If the structure plays the role of a partition, a high table for the kitchen measuring 135 cm is installed.In this situation, it is advisable to supplement the structure with high bar stools.

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The width of the product corresponds to its functional characteristics. It can be in the range of 30-60 cm.Do not perform smaller countertopsince it will be inconvenient to operate. If the stand is used as a work surface, the maximum parameter can be increased.

The length of the product is not limited. It all depends on the purpose of the structure, the place of its installation and functional features. The main rule is the compliance of the countertop with the dimensions of other furniture elements. However, for practical reasons, the calculation of the length is reduced to this principle: the distance for one person should be about 60 cm.

For freestanding tables, the standard height is 110-120 cm

Important! This indicator is adapted for each family member individually.

Materials for the manufacture of bar countertops

The choice of material for the manufacture of countertops for the bar counter for the kitchen determines not only the appearance of the product, but also its operational characteristics.

Chipboard is one of the most affordable. The material is presented in a wide variety of design solutions. You can choose models with imitation wood, stone, or options with unusual prints. The material is characterized by high moisture resistance, resistance to temperature fluctuations, which is especially important for the kitchen. However, in comparison with other materials used for countertops, it has a reduced strength, which affects the life of the product.

The most popular materials for the manufacture of racks are acrylic and laminated chipboard.

For the manufacture of countertops with an unusual shape, acrylic should be used, which is characterized by flexibility and pliability. The material has sufficient strength, wear resistance and durability. Such a surface looks very attractive.

The glass bar countertop has an elegant look that fits perfectly with modern kitchen designs. In the interior, the bar counter can be matte, transparent or tinted, depending on the concept of the stylistic direction. The design is characterized by sufficient strength, wear resistance, resistance to moisture and temperature fluctuations. The surface is not afraid of exposure to chemicals. All dirt is easily removed from it. However, the structure is vulnerable to strong mechanical and thermal stress.

Natural materials for making a bar in the kitchen

The classic option is bar tables and chairs made of wood. They are characterized by strength, reliability, durability, safety and durability. This design looks rich and luxurious. It can be made from walnut, oak, beech, ash, wenge and pine.

Bar tables made of natural stone look presentable and chic

Useful advice! Wooden bar counters are often decorated with carvings, platinum, gilding or have signs of antiquity, thanks to which the product fits perfectly into the classic kitchen.

A wooden surface needs protection from fire, temperature extremes and mechanical stress, which can adversely affect the external condition of the product. Such table top requires periodic restoration.

Bar tables made of natural stone are especially durable, reliable and durable. The products have a luxurious and presentable appearance, as shown in the photo of the kitchen with the counter.Such a coating has a homogeneous structure, making the surface resistant to moisture and any kind of dirt. The stone countertop is characterized by the highest cost, which is justified by an unlimited service life.

A wooden rack will become a decoration of any kitchen, but it requires careful handling

Bar counter design for specific stylistic directions

The design of the bar counter must meet the requirements of the chosen style of the room interior. For a classic design involving large areas, a product made of natural material is preferred. It is necessary that the structure is made in a standard rectangular shape. The best solution is the island model.

Provence style has common features with the classic direction (in the use of materials). However, it is characterized by simplicity and lightness. The interior should not be overloaded with furniture. Open bar tables and kitchen chairs are ideal. Natural stone countertops in pastel colors will look organic. You can emphasize the peculiarity of the direction with the help of furniture elements with an antique effect.

In minimalism, preference is given to open U- or L-shaped bar counters, made in laconic shades. The loft bar table has a massive base and a solid table top. The structure must have a strict form and be as functional as possible. Recommended colors are red, black, white and dark gray. Concrete or wood untreated surfaces will look appropriate.

For a modern kitchen, you can purchase a round bar table with a wooden worktop

Modern kitchens with a breakfast bar are characterized by functionality. Furniture elements can have various configurations and colors. Preference is given to the combination of gloss and matt surface of products.

Tips for making a bar table with your own hands

To create a bar counter in the kitchen, a drawing of the future design is performed, taking into account the type of product, dimensions and installation option. For a classic do-it-yourself model, you will need a timber beam, edged board, plywood sheets, fiberboard, screws, nails, decorative plinth, wood stain and varnish for wood.

Elements of the future frame are cut from wooden bars, which are attached to each other with nails. All parts must fit snugly against each other, which will ensure the strength of the structure. Next, the rails are installed, which are the basis for other parts of the rack. The elements should not differ in height. To make the structure even, the boards are placed vertically.

Drawing of a bar table with dimensions for making by hand

Decking in the form of a plywood sheet is nailed onto the main posts. At this stage, communications are connected, if provided. Then the lower part of the tabletop made of fiberboard is attached to the frame by means of self-tapping screws. Elements for internal partitions are cut from plywood sheets, which divide the structure into departments. Shelves that are fixed with self-tapping screws are also made of this material.

Next, sheathing with plywood sheets of unsightly areas of the frame and the bottom of the table top. In place of butt joints, decorative skirting boards are installed, which are attached with clapboard nails. To protect against environmental influences and give the structure an aesthetic appearance, the rack is covered with a stain. After complete drying, the varnish is applied to the surface in two to three layers with an interval of 2 hours. Such a design can be clearly seen in the photo of a small kitchen with a bar counter instead of a table.

Useful advice! A hand-made model can be equipped with special attributes and accessories to reproduce the bar entourage.

If you want to equip the kitchen with a bar counter, you should consider the options for the location of the structure.For this purpose, the dimensions and layout of the premises are taken into account. The bar counter should become not only a multifunctional piece of furniture, but also an aesthetic element of the interior.