It’s not just that kitchen bar counters are gaining more and more popularity in interior design: they are comfortable, roomy, look stylish, and also help save space. Only in order to correctly enter the design into the ensemble of the premises, you need to have an idea of the configuration, model range and other features of this type of furniture. Read more in our article!
What is it and why are they needed
A bar counter is called a high countertop on supports, which is often a continuation of the working area. Bar stools usually come to her set, and the whole ensemble creates a relaxing, stylish atmosphere.
But in addition to external aesthetics, bar counters also have a number of advantages that stand out from other types of furniture. Unlike ordinary tables, they often include additional space for dishes and other kitchen utensils. You can even integrate large appliances into the rack, such as a dishwasher or an electric oven. Owners of small space will appreciate this property.
In addition, a fully equipped kitchen bar is considered a multifunctional item that saves space. It can include not only the dining, but also the working area, not to mention the storage areas. A kitchen with such furniture looks modern, fits many styles, but more on that later.
However, you should not immediately run to the store: despite significant advantages, this solution will not work for every kitchen. Firstly, racks are rarely able to accommodate more than three people, and large models look inappropriate even in a spacious room, reminiscent of the interior of a bar.
Secondly, due to the monolithic construction of the counter, the counter does not differ in mobility, such as, for example, a dining table, which, if necessary, can be moved to another place.
Types of bar counters for the kitchen
To enjoy the advantages of bar counters, owners of apartments with different layouts were able to, today there are a large number of their types. They vary in shape, layout and configuration.
Island Bar
The interior of the kitchen is built around this item, which can be combined with the working area. Suitable for large rooms or combined with the living room. Such bar counters vary in shape: semicircular, P- or L-shaped. They are a separate part of the kitchen, made in a single style, which creates the effect of integrity.
Bar counter built into furniture
The bar counter is part of a countertop or other element, while continuing in any direction. There are many variations of accommodation: as part of the kitchen island, work area, and sometimes even the windowsill.
The latter view is ideal for small kitchens, since it uses the usually inactive zone near the window. Also, who doesn't like to enjoy the scenery while having breakfast?
Bar counter partition
A popular solution for open-plan studio apartments, causing the need for logical zoning of rooms. In this case, the bar counter can separate the kitchen from the living room, while offering a convenient place for eating. It is often a continuation of the wall and is parallel to the main furniture.
Level bar
This is a narrow platform that is installed above the workstation from the opposite side, without taking up extra space. The only recommendation is to buy chairs higher.
Mini bar counter
When choosing a bar counter for a small kitchen, it is better to pay attention to small models with a laconic package. Often these are peculiar bar “wings” no longer than a meter long, which can accommodate no more than two people. But for many small-sized owners who live alone, this will be enough.
Bar counter materials
Not only the appearance of the bar counter for the kitchen, but also the characteristics, the way of care, and, of course, the cost, depend on the choice of the necessary material. Consider the most common options.
Laminated chipboard
One of the most affordable types at a relatively low price. At the same time, chipboard offers a wide variety of design solutions, imitations like stone, wood or unusual prints. It has high resistance to external moisture, high temperatures, which is important for the kitchen. But due to its low strength and environmental friendliness, such a model will not serve a long service.
Acrylic
The advantage of this material is its flexibility and flexibility - with its help it is possible to create furniture of various shapes, with bends, bulges, even curly elements. It fits perfectly into the interior in a modern style, where interesting design ideas are appropriate. Futuristic cuisine is definitely not without the glossy, flowing surface characteristic of acrylic.
A natural stone
It has a luxurious, rich texture, which in itself can be a decorative component. Bar counters for a kitchen made of natural stone are usually ordered complete with other kitchen furniture, since the “consonance” of materials in space plays an important role. But keep in mind that this is an expensive species that requires special care.
Glass
Of course, not the most practical solution, which even after special processing remains fragile when compared with other materials. In addition, the glass is quite cold and "inhospitable" to the touch. But the unique appearance of products eliminates all the shortcomings, if aesthetics play a key role in the interior. The transparent texture, as well as the variability of colors will make such a bar counter a key element in the kitchen. It goes well with other materials.
How to fit into the interior
Bar counters are a modern type of furniture, but this does not mean that they cannot fit into different interior styles. At the same time, they often come with a kitchen set, which simplifies the creation of a holistic image of the interior.
Classic bar counter for kitchen
The classic puts forward universal criteria for each element, adjusting to which, even a bar counter can be harmoniously entered. It is best to use natural materials, preferably wood, with carved inserts, patterns and concise equipment.
A stand in this style should have a standard, rectangular shape. It is recommended to give preference to the island model, only there should be a lot of space in the kitchen for such a solution. However, the classics always love large areas, so this point must be taken into account in advance.
Contemporary bar counter for kitchen
Otherwise, things are with a modern kitchen, the content of which is primarily functional. The main requirement - the bar must take into account the features of space, becoming its logical continuation.
The decor is not curly details, but the material, a combination of dullness and gloss, a form that can be presented in all possible options, as well as the color scheme.
Provence style bar counter
The style has common features with the classic, but has a completely different way. Provence is lightness, naturalness and simplicity. The bar counter for such a kitchen should be made of natural wood, and then painted white. However, any tone from the pastel range will look organic here.
It is recommended to give preference to antique objects, with noticeable layers of time and history. But for this effect, you can artificially age furniture - such a solution will help create the right atmosphere.
Minimalism kitchen counter
With minimalism, everything is simple - laconic colors, shapes, lines, lack of decorative elements. Geometry plays a huge role in such an interior, so even a bar counter resembles a rectangular piece of material, the beauty of which is revealed in an ensemble with other elements.
Bar counter for loft style kitchen
The bar counter will most likely look exactly in such a kitchen. The loft is characterized by a combination of details of industrial or public spaces, the composition of which surprisingly takes on a cozy character in a private room. The wooden as well as concrete surfaces look very stylish and appropriate here. It is better if the texture has a slightly raw look.
Bar counters for a small kitchen
Not all are happy owners of spacious apartments, into which you can easily enter a bar counter of any model. But there are optimal options, using which your kitchen will acquire a unique and stylish look.
We note immediately that you will have to refuse a full bar counter! In a small kitchen, it will be possible to accommodate a countertop up to 90 cm, which is part of a wall or other objects.
An island model can be purchased if the kitchen is combined with the living room, and the furniture plays the role of a partition. Just make sure that the space between the headsets in parallel will be enough for free movement.
Mini racks are the best option for a small area. After all, even without a complete set, bar countertops are better than ordinary dining tables, since they take up less space.
If the window area is empty, you can install the rack on the windowsill. A two-level model allows you to combine several zones without loss of comfort.
Bar counter for the kitchen - photo
To prove that bar counters are a versatile and stylish option for the kitchen, we suggest that you familiarize yourself with our photo selection, which will clearly illustrate the variety of solutions. Enjoy watching!
Video: Design of a kitchen with a breakfast bar