How to Build a Bar

When building a bar, planning and preparation are important. Here are some tips and suggestions, as well as the necessary equipment.

 

Required Tools and Materials

2 x 4 boards

Facing board

Nails and screws

Drywall

Plumbing (optional)

Countertop

Wainscoting

Measuring tape

Stain

Hammer

Pencils and paper (for sketching and planning)

Saw

Drill with bits

 

Make Measurements

Take stock of the available space. Make a sketch to better visualize the layout. The size should be as large as you can afford. Here are a few pointers. There needs to be space so people can stroll in. When building a bar, the height should be 44”. From the ground up to the bar, it shouldn’t be more than 45”.

The overhang needs to be about 12” on the customer’s side. For the bartender it needs to be 11”. Make the box area as large as possible so the bartender can move easily.

 

Make the Box

The box is needed to provide support for the accessories and other equipment. The top area needs to be 45”. Don’t forget to put the sink or cooler here. Drill holes at the box’s horizontal corners. Screw or add nails. These will fortify the box. You’ll need to use studs if you’re building a bar that is long.

 

Furnishing the Box

If you’re adding a sink, 2 x 4s will be needed to support its weigh. More 2 x 4s will be needed if you’re adding coolers, wine racks and other shelves. Make all the necessary holes and sockets for electricity and plumbing.

 

Adding the Top

You can use a single or double layer of wood. Generally, a thicker bar top is more attractive. Add stain to the bar if desired.

 

Variety is Key

As lovely as the bar is, it’s the contents that will make or break it. For best results, get as many wine variants as possible. Store them in wine racks. You should also have plenty of beers. You can also put some tequilas, martinis and vodka on display. The same can be said for the design. You can go for a low key approach or give it unique colors.

 

Warnings

Building a bar means knowing something about how wine and beverages are served. Some alcoholic drinks need to be stored and served in very specific ways, so do some research first.

You can opt to mix your own drinks, but try it yourself first.

There are plenty of books and guides on mixing drinks. Give them a try and then come up with something different.

Leave the plumbing and electricity to the experts. Unless you know exactly what you’re doing, it’s so easy to make a mistake. If you’re going to install the wiring yourself, be careful. Double check all the wirings and plumbing.

There are several blueprints and layout plans you can download, but don’t be afraid to try something different. It’s your bar so let your creativity come out.

As long as you stick to the basic principles for construction, there shouldn’t be any major problems. When you’re done building a bar, it’s time to gather your friends and party.