Bar Design Cost Guide for Professional Services

Bar design cost guide for professional services

If you’re a hotel, restaurant or sports bar owner, learn the insider secrets of how much bar design, consulting, bar equipment design and luxury bar design costs, then this bar design cost guide is for you!

HOW MUCH IS MY BAR DESIGN REALLY GOING TO COST?

Today we’re going to answer the question: “How much is my bar design really going to cost?” There are many factors that differentiate the cost to design any given bar, which is why I created this bar design cost guide. My goal in this post is to explain our general pricing guidelines for professional bar design.

FEATURES THAT AFFECT DESIGN COST

Often times, commercial bar design encompasses many subtle and complex features that many may not notice or even understand. There are many factors that affect the cost of bar design. Here are the top three things we need to know to get started:

  • What will be the shape of your new bar? Will the bar be L-shaped, rectangular, oval, curved or circular?
  • Will your new bar be a free-standing island bar? Or will it be installed against a wall?
  • Will the new bar have a draft beer system?

At this point, we’re just beginning to scratch the surface. Actually, there are many features our clients request for their new bars. They all impact the price of our bar design service.

Note: pricing and services are subject to change without notice.

WHAT TYPES OF SERVICES DO YOU OFFER AND HOW MUCH DO THEY COST?

This bar design cost guide covers are four types of bar design services:

  • Bar consulting
  • Bar equipment design
  • Standard bar design
  • Luxury bar design

Bar Consulting

Having trouble with your bar design? Most people are afraid of making a costly mistake. Set your fears aside and talk directly with an industry-leading bar design expert! For as little as $49, you might be able to avoid a very costly mistake. With thousands of hours of professional bar design experience, Rick Uzubell can help you solve the most common bar design issues: If you need assistance with planning a new bar, here are some of the consulting services we offer:

  • Create budget for a new bar.
  • Basic bar layout.
  • Help you complete your unfinished bar plan.
  • Create a dining seating plan.
  • The best shape for your bar.

 

Our bar consulting service is geared for the DIYer and those who are seeking preliminary information for purchasing or starting a bar or restaurant/bar.

Pricing for our Bar Consulting service ranges from $250 – $1,500. 

Top 7 factors that affect the cost of bar design
TOP 7 FACTORS THAT AFFECT THE COST OF BAR DESIGN

Bar Equipment Design

This service is geared for the do-it-yourself crowd. They want to finish their bar but need expertise. We can complete the 2D or 3D aspect of their bar layout, from the bar top-down.

For instance, some are merely stuck on the bar equipment itself. With this service, we simply provide a basic bar equipment plan and equipment schedule. Our standard deliverable is a scaled architectural plan in PDF.

 

OPTIONAL SERVICES

We can also provide you with the following optional services:

  • Fine-tune your bar layout with recommendations for POS equipment and draft beer tower locations. 
    Pricing ranges from $200 – $300
  • Create plans for construction of bar base and bar tops.
    Pricing ranges from $500 – $750
  •  Provide details for one (1) built-in ADA accommodation.
    Pricing ranges from $200 – $300

 

PRICING

Base Price: $1,500 for a standard 2-station bar
NOTE: Pricing normally ranges up to $2,500, but could be greater, depending on selected options (SEE LUXURY BAR DESIGN FOR OPTIONS).

Bar equipment design services by Cabaret Design Group
EXAMPLES OF BAR EQUIPMENT DESIGN SERVICES

Standard Bar Design

Our Standard Bar Design service offers a fully-engineered bar plan and is geared for smaller venues looking for a value solution.

We’ll create a concept for a 2-station bar and include the following:

  • Develop a set of plans for construction, including section views, elevations and details.
  • Include details for the construction of one (1) built-in ADA accommodation.
  • Develop bar façade.
  • Foot rail design.
  • Simple back bar plan with TV equipment recommendations and locations.
  • Bar top plan (see image, right).
  • Framing plan (for stick-built bars).
  • Equipment plan.
  • POS station locations.
  • Equipment schedule and manufacturer’s cut sheets.

 

PRICING:

Base Price: $3,300
NOTE: these bars are designed from templates; most of our standard bar designs range from $3,700 – $5,700; island bars and other options are available for an additional charge and are listed in the ‘Luxury Bar Service’ section.

 

Bar with custom draft beer towers
CUSTOM INVERTED DRAFT BEER TOWERS
EXAMPLE OF BAR DETAILS WITH STD. BAR DESIGN

Solicitation Services

This service is for those who don’t want the headaches associated with managing complex purchasing. Most of our clients find this service to be invaluable (NOTE: we don’t get involved with sourcing used bar equipment). With this service:

  • Solicit many of the items we specify for pricing.
  • Review the quotes and submit to the Owner. This is a complex task that includes comparing the quotes to our plans.
  • Review shop drawings and provide delivery information.
  • Manage all communication with the selling entities. This invariably includes clarifications and corrections.
  • The simple fact is many Owners don’t understand all the various forms of equipment, much less know where to purchase. Furthermore, they lack the related knowledge required to interpret complex information.
  • Included is bar equipment, specialty fabrications, draft beer systems (and related hardware), ice machines, walk-in coolers and various bar finishes.

 

How Much do Solicitation Services Cost?

With our solicitation service, our clients can focus their attention to that which they know best. They can use their time to manage their own businesses. The cost for this service varies. We offer this service as a lump sum bid or a percentage of the purchased items. Pricing averages 1-2% of the related equipment cost. For smaller projects, this service begins at $500.

 

Luxury Bars

If you own a casino, hotel or luxury restaurant and desire a luxurious, unique bar, we can certainly fulfill your needs. Our luxury bar designs are geared for larger, more exclusive venues.

Architectural bar design in a hotel atrium with circular bar layout, ambient lighting, and strategic seating — showcasing commercial bar architecture and guest experience planning
ELLIPTICAL-SHAPED ISLAND BAR AND ISLAND BACK BAR

The bar shown above has a host of luxury features, all designed in-house:

  • The front bar utilizes the modular bar die, which was modified with a custom wainscot to match the shape of the elliptical bar top.
  • The wainscot contains a series of equal-length, removable, curved panels.
  • A 12′ high steel structure (with a laminated finish) for the island back bar, which wraps around-and-above the back bar coolers.
  • Top that off with four sets of annealed, lockable bent glass doors… a true “One-off” for the discerning client.

We’d love to design a unique luxurious “One-off” bar for you!

HOTEL BAR
Photo of luxury destination bar
DESTINATION BAR
RESTAURANT BAR

We also offer a most unique design for those who desire an exceptional bar. Our luxury bar designs are “One-offs” and are differentiated by size, detail and finish. They commonly include many of the following features that are optional with our standard bar design:

LUXURY BAR SERVICES

  1. Draft beer system design (see photo, below left)
    Pricing ranges from $1,000 – $1,500 
  2. Island bar upgrade (for curved and radius design see below)
    Pricing ranges from $1,000 – $3,500
  3. Custom back bar design from iron, architectural metal or architectural glass (see photo below right)
    Pricing ranges from $1,000 – $7,500
  4. Custom perimeter soffits (see photo, above left)
    Pricing ranges from $1,000 – $3,500
Custom draft beer system design
DRAFT BEER SYSTEM DESIGN
Upgraded iron back bar with backlit shelving
CUSTOM BACK BAR DESIGN

MORE LUXURY BAR SERVICES

  1. Custom soffits for built-in TV’s (typical detail for Starwood Hotels per photo above, left)
    Pricing ranges from $1,000 – $3,000
  2. Modular bar die (in lieu of stick-built bar base) with removable panel schedule.
    Pricing ranges from $800 – $1,500
  3. Curved, oval and circular bars.
    Base pricing ranges from $5,000 – $25,000
  4. Custom POS station cabinet design (see photo below, left)
    Pricing ranges from $300 – $600 
  5. Backlit bar tops (see photo below, center).
    Pricing ranges from $500 – $1,000
Custom forward-facing POS cabinets for bars
CUSTOM POS CABINET DESIGN
Optional backlit bar tops
BACKLIT BAR TOP DESIGN
Optional bar top mechanical lift assist
MECHANICAL BAR TOP LIFT ASSIST

ADDITIONAL LUXURY BAR SERVICES

  1. Built-in USB phone chargers.
    Pricing ranges from $300 – $600
  2. Counterbalanced bar gate lift assist (see photo above, right)
    Pricing ranges from $300 – $600
  3. Built-in soda systems.
    Pricing ranges from $1,000 – $1,500
  4. Roll-up secured liquor cages.
    Pricing ranges from $1,500 – $2,500
  5. Draft beer walls.
    Pricing ranges from $2,500 – $4,500
  6. Seating layouts (see example below).
    Pricing ranges from $500 – $1,000

 

PRICING:


Base Price: $4,000
NOTE: pricing for our Luxury Bar Design service typically ranges from $5,500 – $14,000, but could be greater, depending on options and complexity. The price for curved / radius bar design can be 2X – 4X this cost, depending on complexity.

Island bar plan with seating layout
EXAMPLE OF ISLAND BAR PLAN WITH SEATING LAYOUT

In addition to this bar design cost guide, I’ve written many other articles regarding the start-up costs for opening a bar or restaurant. Please check-out the articles below that cover bar equipment cost, bar construction costs, draft beer systems, etc.

 

DISCLAIMER: The above video and description contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support!

Need Help with your bar plans?

Designing a bar can be time-consuming and frustrating. Contact us today for your free consultation!
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RICK UZUBELL

President of Cabaret Design Group, Rick holds a degree in mechanical engineering from Purdue University, and is a F&B consultant and well-known bar design expert with years of experience serving hotels, restaurants, sports bars and destination bars. He has developed a command of bar design solutions involving ergonomics, equipment, systems and finishes that bridges the "Gray Zone" between interior designers and architects. He's also a champion of ADA design in commercial bar applications. Through his unique architectural engineering approach he calls "Integrated Bar Design," Rick solves complex bar design challenges beyond the expertise of typical design professionals. His proudest achievements include curved bar design solutions using the modular bar die system and steel as a core design element. As a commercial bar design specialist, Rick has cutting-edge knowledge of draft beer systems, liquor systems, keg room design and batch cocktail systems. He will add significant value to any commercial bar design project. Rick is a proud member of the F&B consortium known as the "Magnificent 7". Additionally, he has authored nearly 100 articles and 80 YouTube videos on the topic of bar design, and these can be found on his Cabaret Design Group website and @bardesigners YouTube channel. Today, Rick's influence extends across the U.S., Canada, and various offshore applications.
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Sam Winer, audio and video specialist for security-integrated food and beverage consulting

Sam Winer

AV + Security Specialist | President,
WinStar Video Security

Sam Winer leads WinStar Video Security with over 20 years of experience designing and installing advanced surveillance, audio, and communications systems for restaurants, bars, and QSR chains. His firm delivers HD, AI-powered security systems, immersive AV experiences, and cellular signal boosting that meets the demands of modern hospitality venues.

From single-unit lounges to high-volume chains, Sam’s work focuses on guest experience, loss prevention, and operational reliability. He’s known for helping operators select the right systems — then install and maintain them for long-term performance.

Sam is a trusted integrator for projects that require technical precision and rock-solid uptime — whether building from scratch, upgrading legacy systems, or opening at scale.

James Farley, structural engineer supporting food and beverage design for commercial hospitality builds

James Farley, PE, SE

Structural Engineer | Owner,
MC Squared, Inc.

James Farley is a licensed structural engineer with deep experience designing commercial buildings across the U.S. He is the owner and principal at MC Squared, Inc., where he leads structural design for a wide range of mid-rise hospitality, retail, and mixed-use projects.

James specializes in turning complex architectural visions into sound, code-compliant structures. His work spans steel, wood, concrete, and hybrid systems — and he’s known for his speed, clarity, and ability to collaborate closely with design teams to support aesthetics without compromising performance.

Licensed in multiple states, including Washington and Arkansas, James plays a vital role in bar and restaurant projects that demand both technical integrity and visual impact.

Garrett Lennon, foodservice design consultant for healthcare, higher ed, and hospitality projects

Garrett Lennon

Design Consultant | President,
JLR Design Group

Garrett Lennon brings over 20 years of experience across foodservice operations, kitchen design, and consulting. As President and Principal of JLR Design Group, he leads projects in hospitality, healthcare, higher education, and institutional environments — where functionality, compliance, and guest satisfaction must align.

With a background in both management and engineering, Garrett excels at bridging frontline realities with technical performance. His team is known for translating operational needs into layouts that perform day after day, year after year.

Whether supporting a hospital kitchen upgrade, a campus dining overhaul, or a high-volume hospitality venue, Garrett focuses on designs that last — clean, compliant, and centered on the user experience.

Dylan Halaszynski, food hall design expert and compliance-driven food and beverage consultant

Dylan Halaszynski

Food Hall Specialist | Founder,
Bayard FSD

Dylan Halaszynski launched Bayard Food Service Design with a singular goal: to bring sharp technical fluency to the complex world of nontraditional foodservice models. His work focuses on unique formats like food halls, shared prep kitchens, and market-style dining — where code compliance and creative layouts must coexist.

With a background in construction management and boutique consulting, Dylan’s superpower is translating regulatory code into efficient, scalable spaces. He’s worked closely with Departments of Health across multiple U.S. jurisdictions and is known for identifying and solving challenges that would stall less experienced teams.

As an FCSI professional, Dylan pairs technical credibility with a next-gen mindset. He’s a go-to strategist for clients exploring urban revitalization projects, hospitality incubators, and unconventional culinary concepts — helping them move quickly, stay compliant, and stand out.

Kevin Moll, hospitality advisor and multi-unit food and beverage consultant

Kevin Moll

Hospitality Advisor | President,
Restaurant Consulting Services

Kevin Moll is a 39-year hospitality veteran, known for his unmatched insight into startup strategy, turnaround planning, and talent acquisition. As President of Restaurant Consulting Services, Inc. and its sister company Restaurant Recruiting Pros, he delivers full-spectrum solutions — from concept to culture.

His operational experience spans World’s Fair-scale foodservice, multi-unit ownership, and high-performance recruiting. He’s been featured on ABC’s Nightline, authored two books, and founded “Mystery Shoppers,” a global brand trusted by operators worldwide.

Kevin blends street-smart practicality with boardroom-level advisory, making him an invaluable partner to entrepreneurs, executives, and investors alike. Whether launching a new brand or revitalizing an underperforming venue, his work bridges hospitality intuition with data-driven execution — unlocking growth where others see obstacles.

Lu Schildmeyer, restaurant and bar design specialist with deep expertise in foodservice facility consulting

Lu Schildmeyer

FCSI Designer | Founder,
LU S Design Associates

Lu Schildmeyer has shaped more than 2,800 hospitality environments across the U.S. and Canada — including over 700 restaurants and 600 bars. With nearly four decades of experience in foodservice facility design, custom stainless steel millwork, and health code compliance, Lu is a trusted specialist for operators who demand technical precision and operational fluidity.

His work spans every segment of the hospitality industry — from boutique bistros to high-volume entertainment venues — where performance, durability, and code alignment must all coexist. Known for practical layouts and forward-thinking BOH integration, Lu brings peace of mind to architects, developers, and chefs who want their kitchens to run as smoothly as their dining rooms.

As an FCSI member, Lu blends aesthetic coordination with engineer-grade accuracy. His shop drawings are regarded as gold standard in foodservice environments, and his ability to anticipate permitting, clearance, and sanitation requirements has saved clients time, risk, and rework at every stage of the build.

Craig Pendleton, food and beverage consultant with a focus on tribal gaming and high-performance dining operations

Craig Pendleton

F & B Consultant | Founder,
National Foodservice Consulting

With more than 50 years in the food and beverage industry, Craig Pendleton brings unmatched operational insight to every project he touches. From national brands to independent operators, his advisory work is grounded in deep experience and a no-nonsense approach to profitability, workflow, and guest experience.

Over the past three decades, Craig has helped launch more than 100 successful venues — including restaurants, casinos, and specialty dining concepts across the U.S. His consulting engagements focus on marrying smart design with real-world management, often bridging the gap between creative vision and operational execution.

Craig’s expertise is especially valued in Tribal gaming environments, where sovereignty, cultural fluency, and long-term sustainability must align. He approaches these partnerships with respect, precision, and a commitment to self-determination — creating foodservice strategies that support community goals while optimizing guest satisfaction and fiscal results.

Colin Addley, global construction strategist and food and beverage consultant for hospitality development

COLIN ADDLEY, MCIOB

Construction Strategist | Founder,
ADDMORE Services

Colin Addley is a Chartered Builder (MCIOB) with over 40 years of experience leading complex construction projects across six continents. His expertise spans construction management, quantity surveying, and international development strategy — particularly in hospitality, resorts, and commercial spaces.

As the founder of ADDMORE Services, Colin works with a global network of professionals he’s personally vetted — including quantity surveyors, site engineers, project managers, and planners — all of whom operate with the same rigor and high-performance mindset. He’s directed projects in the UK, UAE, South Africa, Germany, and North America, earning a reputation for precise execution on fast-moving, high-stakes initiatives.

Whether it’s developing a new food hall in Johannesburg, overseeing a hospitality rollout in the Gulf States, or helping U.S. brands expand overseas, Colin brings logistical clarity and on-the-ground insight to every venture. His work consistently blends old-school project discipline with contemporary collaboration — making him a powerhouse for any project that spans borders, teams, or time zones.

Rick Uzubell, bar design expert and food and beverage consultant specializing in integrated bar systems

Rick Uzubell

Bar Design Expert | Founder,
Cabaret Design Group

Rick Uzubell is a recognized authority in commercial bar design — especially in the elusive “Gray Zone” where architecture, code, and performance intersect. As the creator of Integrated Bar Design, he solves complex spatial and system challenges beyond the reach of typical design professionals.

His signature touches — curved bars, modular steel systems, and ADA-first layouts — have shaped elite projects across the U.S., Canada, and offshore markets. With nearly 100 published articles and over 80 YouTube videos, Rick is a prolific voice for smarter, more profitable bar environments.

Rick’s method blends aesthetic flow with compliance-forward spatial logic — resolving the often-overlooked tensions between building codes, bar efficiency, and guest engagement. His modular steel systems have become a calling card for operators who want high-volume throughput without sacrificing service quality or ADA inclusion.

Beyond design, Rick is a thought leader and educator in the hospitality space. His articles and videos have helped thousands of restaurateurs, architects, and consultants rethink the way bars are built — and how they perform.