A kitchen with a bar counter combined with a living room, the variants of which are presented in the photo, is a vivid example of the non-triviality of the design approach.
Let's consider how this solution can be implemented in various interior styles.
Loft style
The loft has recently gained its popularity in modern interiors. It can be recognized by its subtle combination of modernity and classics, practicality and spaciousness.
If your house has high ceilings, you can safely start implementing your own idea. When combining two rooms with each other, do not forget to highlight functional areas.
Correctly positioned decorative ceiling beams will easily cope with the task at hand and will clearly fit into the given style.
The main emphasis should be placed on the windows, leaving them as open as possible. Compact roller blinds can be used for shading. Leave one wall unformed or imitate brickwork on it.
It is desirable that it captures both the kitchen and the living room area. Ideally, if it will be the wall on which the window is located. Under it, you can build a work surface that smoothly turns into a perpendicular bar counter.
Place an original glass holder, a fruit vase, a wine bottle rack on it.
Under the same wall, but in the living room area, place a spacious sofa and a small coffee table. The window of the hall area should also not be decorated with heavy curtains.
Leave it open or use lightweight, sheer curtains.
For visual separation also use a clever combination of light sources:
- spotlights in the cooking area;
- hanging low ceiling chandeliers above the dining table and bar;
- office-type luminaire in a recreation area.
The whole picture will help to create the same floor finish. Pay attention to the dark laminate that imitates natural wood.
Chairs for the dining table and bar counter, choose the same type, preferably simple wooden ones. The absence of varnish and paint will make them ideal for this design direction.
Modern posters on industrial themes, large wall clocks, three-dimensional letters, etc. can be used as decorative elements.
Part of the wall can be pasted over with chalk wallpaper, writing on them recipes, menus for the day, messages for your family members, etc. Follow your own imagination and she will tell you some non-trivial loft-style solutions.
Simple, modern, beautiful
Do you want to create an amazing design object out of a small kitchenette and a not very spacious living room? Your choice is a composite of minimalism and art deco.
Correctly selected shades of white, black, gray and beige will effectively place accents and create a single harmonious space.
See how such a kitchen with a bar counter, combined with a living room, looks in the photo: fashionable, elegant, unique. It is hard to imagine, but all this can be realized in two dozen square meters of total area.
To recreate something similar at home, the first thing you need to pay attention to is the correct allocation of functional areas.
The kitchen and the hall are separated by a bar counter, the tone, shape and style of which is identical to that which is present in the outlines of the furniture set.
A competent floor design will also help to maintain the visual separation of the room: light tiles in the kitchen area and laminate or solid wood of a similar shade and texture in the hall.
If you abandon the usual dining table, replacing it with a wide bar counter, you can not only effectively emphasize the given modern style, but also make the space more ergonomic and comfortable.
The uniqueness of the interior will be complemented by simple white facades, contrasting with the black tabletop of the work area and bar counter, as well as high bar stools.
Such a laconic design can be easily diversified thanks to:
- a mirrored apron with a non-trivial pattern;
- placement of similar mirror inserts on the facades of the headset;
- live flowers in vases and pots;
- several bright decor items.
Observing the unity of color and texture, you can create a harmonious interior in a modern style.
Mediterranean comfort
The Mediterranean style is characterized by lightness, laconicism, unique home warmth and coziness. It is characterized by light gray-white-blue colors, an abundance of natural materials, several bright accents.
By deciding to combine the kitchen and living room together, you can:
- create a more spacious room;
- equip a comfortable work area;
- provide a full dining table;
- place the TV so that it is convenient to watch it, no matter where you are in the room.
For the Mediterranean style, a large rectangular arch will be an excellent solution, which will act as a visual space divider.
Complement its lower part with a rectangular bar counter - and you will get not only a stylish interior, but also another work surface.
It will be possible to place a bread bin, a coffee maker, a kettle, a bowl of fruit or cookies on it. It also becomes a comfortable laptop stand. A comfortable sofa can be placed immediately behind it.
Use white as your main color. The light glossy facades of the headset only at first glance seem impractical, but during operation you will make sure that they are not so dirty.
White color effectively harmonizes with all sorts of shades, allowing you to experiment a lot. Make the countertops of the kitchen set, dining table and bar counter from artificial stone of the "graphite" color, and put porcelain stoneware tiles of the same shade on the floor.
All this will be effectively complemented by the metallic sheen of mixers, household appliances, handles. The sophistication of the Mediterranean style will be emphasized by a work apron made of small tiles of gray-blue color.
Decor elements that fit into the boundaries of a given design direction will help to unite the interior of the room.
These can be small posters over the dining table on a nautical theme, open shelves with snow-white dishes, painted vases with dried flowers and live bouquets, transparent air curtains, etc.
Scandinavian functionality and comfort
If you prefer natural materials, home comfort and high functionality of the surrounding objects, take a closer look at the Scandinavian style.
Combining the kitchen with the living room, you can equip the dining area directly at the junction of these rooms, using a wide bar counter instead of a table.
With this solution, you will provide clear visual zoning, highlighting the cooking area, dining area and seating area.
By choosing the right materials and room design, you can create an exquisite and functional interior, thought out to the smallest detail.
Here are some tips, which can be easily implemented in practice, combining the kitchen and the hall and decorating the created room in the Scandinavian style:
- equip the countertop of the working area and the bar counter at the same level, choosing an array of natural wood as the material;
- give up the upper cabinets in favor of open shelves, placing cups, glasses, decorative elements on them;
- the height of the refrigerator, pencil case and shelves in the kitchen and living room should be at the same level, which will create a visual unification;
- headset facades choose light shades: white, milky, cream, gray;
- equip a roomy bar under the bar, and decorate the wall above it with an original wooden panel.
A contrasting floor will help to effectively emphasize the zoning. The black ceramic tiles of the working area will be very noticeable against the background of the hall floor, lined with light laminate, reminiscent of whitewashed wood.
Original storage containers, vases, boxes with spices are suitable as decorative elements. To keep the interior from looking too monotonous, choose some bright objects. Do-it-yourself things will do as well.
Fashionable neoclassicism
From a small one-room apartment you can get a comfortable bedroom, a study, a full kitchen and a living room.
It is necessary to think over every nuance in detail, take care of the correct placement of each interior item.
Built-in household appliances will help to significantly save free space. The microwave oven and oven can be mounted in one pencil case, positioned one above the other.
Contrast the kitchen set with a dark bottom and a light top. Do not bring the top row lockers up to the ceiling. This will visually increase the height of the room and make the small room more spacious.
You can highlight the kitchen area using a ceiling box located around the perimeter and equipped with spotlights.
The corner furniture set will leave two walls free, allowing you to place a wooden dining table with soft chairs in the corner.
Choose your lighting devices for each zone: chandeliers, spots, wall sconces, etc. A large corner sofa will become the central place to relax.
Opt for orthopedic models that provide a comfortable and full sleep. The bar counter located above its criminal part will become a full-fledged writing table.
It will be possible to put a laptop or a monitor of a stationary computer on it, hiding the system unit in the provided niche under the table top. All furniture should be united by conciseness and simplicity of forms, the absence of volumetric elements.
You can emphasize neoclassicism by pasting walls in wallpaper of different shades, exquisite extraordinary vases, candles, photo frames and other non-trivial decor.
As you can see in the above photos, a modern kitchen with a bar counter combined with a living room allows you not only to win in free space, but also to create stylish designs in various interior directions, emphasizing the tastes and preferences of the owners of the house.
The bar counter is such a familiar element of the interior that it has already begun to seem banal. But it all depends on its design. The bar counter can be either a kitsch attribute of outdated European-quality renovations, or an original piece of furniture. We share a selection of modern bar counters that can transform the interior.
1. A good way to combine the kitchen and living room
The opening in the wall between the living room and the kitchen is a functional solution that allows you to partially unite these rooms. And the bar counter under the opening will replace the dining table.
2. Instead of a dining table
Putting a bar counter instead of a dining table in the kitchen or living room is an idea that will make the interior stylish. Choose bar counters with a laconic design.
3. Two-level bar counter
Two countertops of the bar counter, installed at different levels, will save space in a small kitchen. One of them serves as a work surface, and the other as a table or counter.
4. Loft-style counter
The bar counter, the base of which is made of brick, looks very unusual. This stand is easy to make yourself, the main thing is to find a suitable countertop.
5. Functional solution
The U-shaped kitchen set is striking in its functionality. The work and hob are hidden behind the bar counter, which made it possible to rationally dispose of the kitchen area.
6. Roomy bar steak
Open shelves located around the perimeter of the bar can accommodate a lot of things you need. After all, the lack of storage systems is felt in almost any kitchen.
7. Living room decoration
Such a bar counter, made of natural wood, will become a real decoration of the living room. It will fit a lot of alcoholic beverages, and a small friendly company can freely accommodate around a comfortable tabletop.
8. Interesting geometry
Thanks to the bright countertop of an unusual shape, smoothly turning into the upper part of the structure, the bar counter will become a real highlight of the interior. Its uniqueness becomes even more pronounced against the background of a neutral kitchen set.
9. Luxurious ergonomics
This modern bar counter is equipped with several worktops located at different levels. If necessary, the tabletops can be moved apart, which allows a large friendly company to be accommodated at the bar counter.
10. Explosion of color
The bright base of the bar counter looks expressive, but not too striking. Therefore, the bar counter becomes an accent in the interior without overloading it.
11. From solid wood
The bar counter made of solid wood looks luxurious. The rich texture of natural wood is even more pronounced against a white background.
12. So that the free corner is not empty
The bar counter, located far from other interior items, looks stylish and unusual. Thanks to this arrangement, an additional functional area is formed in the living room.
13. Games with form
The kitchen set, equipped with a bar counter of an unusual shape, will fit even into a small room.
14. Practical finish for the bar counter
The bar counter, lined with ceramic tiles, is not afraid of moisture and pollution. To make the interior holistic, the kitchen apron can be laid out with the same tiles.
15. Two in one
Bar counter for a neoclassical interior.
The tempered glass top on a carved wood base makes the bar stand out of the box. This solution is suitable for neoclassical interiors.
18. Compact bar counter
One person can fit behind a small bar counter, which is a continuation of the main table top. But this does not cease to be less convenient.
Before thinking about the bar counter, you need to decide on the concept of the interior. Continuing the topic -
The bar counter is a fresh idea for the kitchen interior. In a modern apartment it can be used as a dining table, as a place for serving snacks and drinks, and as a work surface.
In order for the design to please its owners to the fullest, it is necessary to understand its features and the rules for choosing configurations depending on the type of kitchen.
When is a bar counter appropriate?
The bar counter in the kitchen speaks of the good taste and practicality of the owner of the apartment. Contrary to popular belief, this is not only an attribute of a young company, but also a colorful piece of furniture for older people. But is a bar counter suitable for any kitchen?
You should think about purchasing it if:
- The small size of the kitchen does not allow accommodating a full-size table, which will interfere with moving freely within the room;
- It is necessary to zone the kitchen. The drain bar will help to divide the spacious, but not too cozy kitchen into several functional zones. For example, work and lunch;
- The room has a sufficient area for equipment with a minibar. Such a bar can become a luxury item if equipped with a separate refrigerator and cabinet for storing drinks;
- Redevelopment was carried out, during which a part of the wall remained on the border of the two rooms. It remains only to equip the partition with a table top.
Advice! Whatever purpose the bar serves, even if it is away from the main fittings, it should be designed in a similar style.
Pros and cons
To objectively assess the need to install a home mini-bar, you need to consider all aspects of owning such a piece of furniture.
Advantages:
- Allows you to significantly save kitchen space;
- It has great potential as a storage place for various dishes, alcohol and all kinds of little things;
- Good for quick bites and rest;
- It is a stylish design solution and one of the essential attributes of a studio apartment.
Flaws:
- The height of the bar makes it not very comfortable for children, elderly people or people with disabilities;
- The number of people who can sit at it at the same time is limited. The mini-bar cannot replace the dining table for a large family.
Dimension standards
The generally accepted height according to GOST is 1.1-1.2 m. However, home parameters may differ in one direction or another, depending on the preferences of the owners, their height and the interior of the kitchen.
In residential premises, a bar counter with a height of 0.9 m is often used: in this case, it is located on the same level with the rest of the kitchen surfaces.
As for the width of the bar, you should rely only on its functional value. The smallest possible countertop width is 30 cm, but behind a surface of this size you cannot comfortably eat. The most practical and common width is 80 cm.
Modern manufacturers offer multi-level and folding designs that allow you to combine several options for the height and width of the table top.
Variety of shapes and materials
Today, in addition to the classic direct mini-bar, there are:
- L-shaped rack. A versatile option that will successfully separate the working area from the dining area and will favorably emphasize any interior. The kitchen area is used as efficiently as possible.
- U-shaped rack. Suitable only for rooms of impressive size, but has many advantages. This shape will allow not only to favorably highlight the area of the mini-bar, but also to combine several work surfaces. A bar counter of this shape will become the main accent of the room, setting the style of the entire kitchen.
- Rounded rack. As a rule, it is one of the previous options with a rounded table top.
- Rack of irregular shape. It is a combination of various geometric shapes and materials. Such furniture is rare and not so easy to fit into the interior.
The choice of material for bar counters is very wide. The simplest and cheapest are made from plastic, chipboard or MDF. Designers produce home bar counters from expensive wood, glass, some types of stone and metal - it all depends on the customer's budget.
Corner kitchen with bar
The home bar in America has long been called the "breakfast bar". It is the function of a place for a quick snack or a heart-to-heart conversation that is entrusted to her in the corner kitchen.
Depending on the size of the room and the wishes of the owners themselves, the rack can be placed in the center in the manner of an island.
Or represent only a protruding part of a one-piece kitchen set.
Any size can be equipped with an ergonomic mini-stand. Both classic and lightweight versions look good.
A massive multi-level structure will be inappropriate, make the interior "heavy" and visually reduce the kitchen space. The most common option is a medium-sized bar with chrome legs or built-in elements.
Bar counter in the kitchen-living room
In the spacious kitchen-living room, the bar counter is a classic option. There are two options for placing this type of furniture here. For example, you can install it as an extension of a furniture set in the working area of the kitchen.
But it is more logical to place it in a recreation area, where the owners, together with the guests, can use the structure as a place for conversations and serving snacks.
If the free space allows, then it will be especially chic to organize a real home mini-bar.
It would be a mistake to build the interior of the kitchen-living room around the bar as its main element. Designers advise placing the mini-bar on a separate island in front of the TV and near the dining table.
Advice! You should not give up the dining table in favor of the bar counter: it is not designed for more than 3-4 people, and not every guest will be comfortable sitting at it.
The living room kitchen is the place for a massive structure. You should be aware that you cannot install a multi-level rack if the room has low ceilings: otherwise, they will visually drop even more.
Small kitchen with a bar
A feature of the bar counter is that it can find its place both in a spacious room and in a small room. If in the kitchen-living room it plays the role of an additional luxury item, then in a small room it should become the most functional part of the interior.
The most logical solution would be to replace the dining table with it. To dine at the bar is as convenient as possible, you should choose a not too high option. Furniture no more than 90 cm in height is ideal.
In addition to the function of the dining table, the bar counter should not be adapted as a work surface.
Modern manufacturers manage to fit a lot of "smart" mechanisms into some models of bar counters, which will be very useful in conditions of saving free space. For example, various sliding, folding and mobile drawers for storing kitchen utensils will be very helpful to housewives.
The best solution would be a transformer stand: a small countertop surface can turn into a full-fledged dining table using a simple system.
Even if the bar counter is not equipped with modern mechanisms, the free space under it can be used to store chairs or other large items.
Bar counter and dining table in one kitchen: pros and cons
If the area of the kitchen allows, then it is better not to give up the dining table in favor of the bar counter and leave both pieces of furniture.
The advantages of such a solution will be:
- The presence of a large working surface;
- The versatility of the dining table;
- Additional possibilities of space zoning;
- The presence of a separate place for rest;
- Possibility to accommodate a large number of guests.
There are no significant drawbacks to the decision to leave both the table and the bar in one kitchen. If the free space allows you to do this, then you can safely experiment!
In order for both pieces of furniture to organically combine in one room, the bar should be designed in the style of either the dining table itself or other kitchen furniture. Otherwise, she runs the risk of looking superfluous.
What to add?
The bar counter of the house itself is a piece of decor, giving the kitchen a special charm. But don't forget about its required attributes. For example, when installing a mini-bar, you need to acquire at least a pair of high chairs.
Even if the counter is not supposed to be used as a dining table, very soon the owners will appreciate the delights of quick snacks at it.
To sit comfortably at the counter, the chairs are selected according to its height. The standard is 60 cm.
The bar area is often provided with additional lighting. Even if it is just an extension of the kitchen set, spotlights will greatly facilitate the cooking process.
Lighting can be used to achieve any atmosphere, from relaxing and romantic to bright party lights.
When installing lamps in the minibar area, you need to completely isolate all wires for safety reasons. You can combine several lighting options by setting special switches.
In addition to chairs and lighting, the bar counter can be decorated with any accessories in the style of the room. For example, you can decorate it with colorful bottles, various functional shelves, holders.
The corner layout of the kitchen is one of the most versatile and popular options for the location of the kitchen set: it is suitable for both small and spacious kitchens, including a studio.
Read this article for important tips on how to plan your corner kitchen using a bar counter.
How to use a bar counter when planning a corner kitchen
In general, the bar counter is an elongated, narrow countertop on the bar console. The bar counter company is made up of bar stools or bar stools with a foot bar.
The same bar can be added to the bar counter to make your meal at the bar counter as comfortable as possible.
The bar does not have to be high
Distinguish two options for planning a corner kitchen using a bar counter:
- The bar counter is a continuation of the corner kitchen
- The bar is separate.
Let's consider both options in more detail.
1. Bar counter as a continuation of the corner kitchen
The classic version of the location in the kitchen - the bottom line of the kitchen furniture smoothly goes into the bar counter.
In one case (a large kitchen), this will allow the kitchen to be zoned into a working and dining area, in the other (a kitchen combined with a living room) - to create a kind of kitchen niche, to separate the kitchen space from the living room.
Most often, the bar is located perpendicular to the main part of the kitchen. If space allows, you can expand the working area of the kitchen: the bar counter, for example, can be made in the form of an arc or placed at an angle to the working part.
Bar counter as a continuation of the corner kitchen
The bar counter separates the dining area from the kitchen
Bar stools are not required here: the height of the bar is equal to the level of the dining table
Abroad, the bar is called "breakfast bar", which means "breakfast bar". But this is not a reason to regard the bar counter as a place for a quick bite.
The photo shows examples when a well-chosen width and length of a bar counter will allow it to be used as a dining table for a small family.
The bar counter is a continuation of the kitchen, its height is 85 cm.Regular stools are not suitable here
The bar counter continues the corner kitchen and separates the dining area from the work
Attached bar counter - a hybrid dining table
In contrast to the full-featured bar counter, we will give a mini-counter option.
A miniature bar counter is suitable for a small kitchen, when there is a desire to dilute the interior with something original and at the same time functional.
You can make the design of the mini bar retractable, which will additionally save limited space.
The mini bar counter can slide inside the kitchen cabinet
The bar counter is located at the dining table level, it can also serve as an additional workplace
Freestanding bar counter
In the project of a corner kitchen, you can provide independent arrangement of the bar counter: island (in the center of the kitchen), wall, window and border.
Bar counter divider
The bar counter is often performed in the form of an arc, zigzag, other complex shape and used in the case of combining a kitchen with a living room to separate the dining and work areas.
A very comfortable bar counter of a complex configuration stands in the middle of the corner kitchen
This corner kitchen has it all: an island, and an arched bar counter that also combines a work area
Behind such a bar it is convenient to communicate with the hostess while cooking.
This version of the project of a corner kitchen, with a wall bar, will save a little space by using it as a dining table.
Space savings will be especially noticeable if the design allows you to fold the bar in an upright position during downtime.
In any case, the kitchen layout with a wall-to-wall bar counter guarantees a lot of fun for those who like to experiment with the interior.
The end of the bar counter is attached to the wall
Wall-mounted bar counter (attached to the wall with its butt end)
Bar counter - island
The island arrangement of the bar counter will suit the owners of spacious kitchens.
The island in the center of the corner kitchen in the form of a bar counter can be either small, performing only the direct functions of a dining table for an express lunch or cocktail during a party, or multifunctional.
In the photo examples, you can see that the layout of the corner kitchen provides for a large island in the middle of the room.
Moreover, on the one hand - all the conveniences for lunch in a relaxed atmosphere, and on the other - a sink and an additional work area.
Bar counter plus island, two-in-one
The high bar rests on the kitchen island
Bar counter-island for the kitchen in a classic style
The bar counter adjoins the kitchen island and serves as a replacement for the dining table
The layout of the kitchen with the location of the bar under the window is a separate conversation
What if, by the will of fate, you got a breathtaking view from the kitchen window (panorama of a big city, sea view, flower garden)? The answer is unequivocal: to use it as efficiently as possible for the benefit of yourself.
In this case, the bar counter near the window will be an excellent helper.
It is not uncommon to observe such racks in the cafes of the city, when a vacationer can climb onto a high bar stool and slowly, sipping his coffee, watch passers-by through the window. So at home - the bar counter paired with bar stools will become your favorite place in the kitchen: you get an excellent entourage during a meal and saved space in the kitchen.
The reverse side of the coin - the space under the window will need to be cleared for the legs, and access to the window will become a little difficult.
The use of the bar counter in the interior of various styles
An experienced designer will be able to skillfully fit a bar counter into the interior of a corner kitchen of any style, be it classic, Provence, or modern.
Naturally, a Victorian kitchen with a bar by the window will look a little odd.
But the kitchen layout in the classic or modern style is quite acceptable for a bar counter, whether it is an island in the middle of the kitchen or a wall mini-table.
Skillfully choosing the design, material and color of the bar counter, its presence in the kitchen will become natural, and the layout is thought out to the smallest detail.
For the Art Nouveau style, the characteristic features will be the roundness of the forms and the maximum functionality of the rack.
The bar counter in the classic style is a table top on bar consoles with a height of about 110 cm. The width of the seat must be chosen within the range of 50-60 cm per seat.
You can use both stools and chairs with high legs, with comfortable footrests and armrests.
If the bar is included in the island in the center of the kitchen, its height can be either more or less than the height of the island itself.
For an illustrative example, we present a photo of modern and classic style kitchens with a bar counter.
A bar counter with a natural wood worktop is part of a freestanding kitchen island
The bar counter of an unusual round shape is a continuation of the corner kitchen set
A kitchen with a bar counter-working area in this case does not provide for bar stools
The bar counter of a non-standard curved shape is a continuation of the corner kitchen
The bar counter is part of a freestanding kitchen island
The high bar counter is part of the corner kitchen and at the same time separates the work area from the dining area
Errors in projects of a corner kitchen with a bar counter
What are the most common mistakes when planning a corner kitchen set with a bar counter?
1) The bar is inconveniently located. This happens if the project is drawn up by an inattentive specialist.
For example, a bar counter is placed next to a narrow aisle, interfering with free movement. Or, as in the photo, it makes no sense to put a bar stool next to the refrigerator.
The bar stool cannot be placed next to the refrigerator, otherwise the door will not open.
2) It is inconvenient to sit at the bar. The reasons for this are different.
For example, if the bar counter is a continuation of the kitchen set, then its height is 85 cm. It is difficult to find suitable chairs, chairs designed for this height are rarely on sale.
Most often, bar stools and stools are suitable for 110 cm high counters.
Why do you think it is inconvenient to sit at the bar shown in this photo? Have you guessed? No?
Take a look: the countertop and the shelf are almost the same width. This means that the shelf will interfere with the legs of people sitting behind the counter.
It's inconvenient to sit at this bar
3)The kitchen is cramped. Why does the kitchen sometimes get cramped after installing the bar?
This happens if, when planning a corner kitchen, they put the bar counter too close.
For free movement, the distance between the counter and the furniture is about 1 m. If the size of the room allows you to leave only, say, 60 cm, then, of course, using such a kitchen is inconvenient.
Do not forget, when drawing up a project for a corner kitchen with a bar counter, to plan it so that it is convenient to use the headset.
Check if there is enough distance for the passage, the placement of chairs, if equipment and furniture interfere with each other.
So, to summarize:
When drafting a corner kitchen, do not be afraid to use a bar counter. This is not only a fashionable element of the interior, but also an excellent tool for making the most of the limited space of a small kitchen.
When looking for ready-made kitchen projects, first of all decide how often and for what purpose you will use the bar counter.
If the bar counter is an island paradise for you, on which you plan to dine as long as at the dining table, look for projects in which the layout assumes a window sill, wall or island arrangement of the bar counter.
Otherwise, you can get by with a mini bar without unnecessary details.
7 ideas on how to install a bar counter. 50 photos of bar counters in the kitchen.
The bar has always been considered an indispensable attribute of cafes and restaurants, but now it is confidently used by eminent designers. Read on to find out how you can diversify your kitchen with such a spicy piece of furniture.
The bar counter is not only a beautiful element of decor, but, above all, comfortable functional furniture. With the right location, it can serve as a work area or dining area, become a place for storing household items and save space in the kitchen.
It is customary to call a bar counter any countertop that is longer in size than a regular table and does not have legs or is located on a special console. It can be of any variety: it is a massive "island" in the center of the kitchen, and a miniature worktop attached to the main headset, or a separate structure with chrome legs. An indispensable addition - special bar stools or high stools.
A very non-standard solution.
By the choice of the bar, one can judge the character and inclinations of its owner. It can be in harmony with the general background of the kitchen, ideally repeating the color scheme of the walls and the texture of the headset, or it can be a bright contrasting spot that will look avant-garde and spectacular. Many people prefer traditional rectangular models, while others prefer non-standard solutions.
We present to your attention 7 interesting ideas on how you can use a bar counter in the interior of your apartment.
The border of the kitchen and living room
Bar counter-island for the kitchen
Most often, the bar counter is used as an addition to the main object: an extension of a headset or a wall. In standard-layout apartments, these are the only options.
If the area of your kitchen allows you to conduct interesting experiments, then we definitely suggest that you bring this idea to life. The bar countertop in the form of a free-standing "island" in the very center of the kitchen will become the main feature of your interior and will attract everyone's attention. In addition, you will have access to the table from all sides, which is very convenient both when preparing meals and during evening feasts.
A work area and a sink are most often placed on the classic bar "island". With this location, you can surprise your guests by preparing fresh meals right in front of them. This option is especially convenient for housewives, who can make all the necessary preparations in the kitchen and at the same time communicate with their relatives and friends.
The bar "island" must be combined in style and background with color and other additional furniture.
If the rack is an addition to the kitchen set, glasses and glasses can be placed above it with the help of special attachments.
If your counter is a partition between the kitchen and the living area, you can continue the zoning theme using hanging lamps or plasterboard ceiling structures.
The bar counter, as you probably already noticed, is an extremely convenient and irreplaceable thing in the interior of the kitchen. What could be more comfortable than a bar counter? Only ! It takes up even less space and is distinguished by its exceptional ergonomics.
Corner posts look best in small kitchens or studio apartments, where such an arrangement makes it easy to divide the work area and dining room, a place of rest. They can be easily integrated into the existing kitchen set and visually fence off one area from another, making them different, independent rooms from each other, while maintaining the overall style.
If you choose the design of the rack and furniture in accordance with the color scheme and style of the kitchen unit, the apartment will look organically as a whole.
Not everyone decides to choose a bar counter for a small kitchen. But in vain! The rack not only fits into any, even the most, does not clutter up the space, but also visually makes the room wider and freer. It can combine several functions at the same time: it can serve as an additional cooking area. Isn't this the dream of every hostess?
Tall stools or bar stools can be tucked under the bar when not in use - another added bonus to purchasing one.
Corner posts located along the walls take up the least space. If the dimensions of the room allow, you can place the rack around the perimeter of the kitchen. This option is convenient, for example, for dividing a studio apartment into zones.
The countertop is located a little higher than usual - at first it may be unusual or even inconvenient. The classic height of the kitchen table is comfortable and has its own advantages. Designers figured out how to combine both in one item, taking advantage of the advantages of both models.
Often the bar counter acts as an addition to the main counter, protruding slightly upward or moving forward from the surface of the main countertop. This option is optimal for families who host people of different generations: young people will be happy to spend time at the bar, and for grandparents there is a place at the traditional table as a conservative alternative.
In a two-level bar counter, the worktops are one above the other, allowing you to use the desired height, depending on the occasion. This is especially true for families with children: they will have the lower low part of the rack just in time!
Table top
Modern building materials give a huge scope for your imagination to design a bar counter in the form of a table top. The option of using a stand instead of the main table is just ideal for a small family with no more than three people.
By their design, bar tables are of two types:
- Open... Installed on high metal legs.
- Closed... Complete construction, decorated on one side with wood panels or other finishing method.
Depending on your taste, you can choose a worktop made of wood, glass, metal or ceramic tiles.
Treat this process with special attention! Most often, it is the choice of the right finishes and materials that is responsible for how well the bar structure fits into the interior of the finished kitchen.
In high-tech or modern style rooms, glossy surfaces made of metal or glass will look best. While in an English-style kitchen or a classic Mediterranean interior, worktops made of expensive wood or natural stone will look chic. High chairs decorated with carved legs will perfectly complement such a luxurious bar counter.
As you can see, the use of a bar counter in the interior of a modern kitchen is not so much a tribute to fashion as a necessity. This unique and original piece of furniture combines many functions and is definitely a must-have! Think over all the nuances of design and layout, connect your imagination and use the bar counter to make your kitchen unusual and memorable!
