Designing a Bar – 7 Problems with Plans and Layouts

Cabaret Design Group

What are the 7 biggest problems with designing a bar? For many, bar design is a very frustrating experience. Today I’ll address the 7 biggest problems with planning commercial bar plans and layouts, dimensions, equipment, finishes and costs.

DESIGNING A BAR – 7 BIGGEST PROBLEMS

Let’s face it, planning a commercial bar is frustrating and time-consuming. To make things easier, let’s talk about the most fundamental planning issues of bar design:

1. PLANNING FOR AREA AND CAPACITY

What’s the best shape for a bar and how many patrons are you intending to serve?

Here are a few examples:

1. 2-STATION SHOTGUN BAR

This bar design is becoming less popular. The bar shown in this example seats eight is nearly twenty four foot long and requires 260 square foot of floor space.

2). 2-STATION L-SHAPED BAR

This bar is more compact and therefore more flexible to buildings with limited space this bar seat six is about 18 feet long and requires 180 square feet of floor space;

Cabaret Design Group
ARCHITECTURAL PLAN OF 2-STATION L-SHAPED BAR

STUCK ON YOUR BAR DESIGN? CALL US NOW…

Krowne Alchemy Series underbar station with stainless steel design, featuring tagline ‘Refined Design, Unmatched Performance’ on a dark background.

Krowne Alchemy Series: Precision Performance for the Modern Bar Engineered for flawless workflow across the Krowne ecosystemHave you heard about the Krowne Alchemy Series of underbar equipment? Imagine an underbar station so refined, it feels like it was designed by a Michelin-star chef and an Indy crew. Sleek lines. Sculpted edges. Storage in all …

Square graphic with bold white text on a navy background reading ‘Why We Stopped Hiding Our Prices — And Built a Tool Instead,’ promoting transparency in bar design pricing.

Let’s be honest: trying to find real bar design pricing online is like asking a magician to reveal the trick. Most firms dodge the question entirely, hiding behind vague phrases like “custom quotes” or “tailored solutions.” But you deserve more — especially if you’re about to make one of the biggest investments of your …

3). 3-4 STATION ISLAND BAR

This is the most popular bar design, as it enables patrons to interact with people on all sides. This bar is approximately 485 sq.ft. and will accommodate 28 seats.

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JON TAFFER ENDORSEMENT

PLANNING FOR EFFICIENCY

In terms of seating efficiency, the shotgun bar and L-shaped bar require the largest area of at least 30 square feet per patron. The island bar is the most efficient at only 17 square feet per patron. This chart summarizes all the above.

2. HOW TO FIT A BAR TO A GIVEN SPACE

It can be challenging to fit a bar within the physical space with all proper clearances. Remember that empty space often appears larger than it really is and careful planning is required.

Cabaret Design Group
EXAMPLE OF FITTING A BAR TO A SPACE

3. PLANNING SEATING AND TABLES

This is a further refinement of the previous point, which addresses all seating, including tables. Architectural standards need to be applied that take into account human dimension and interior spaces, including server aisles, ADA, customer activity zones, circulation zones and clear access zones between tables. Using these standards were generally put you in good shape with the occupant loads as stipulated by IBC for Assembly Group A-2.

Cabaret Design Group
2-TOP AND 4-TOP TABLE PLANNING

4. HOW TO DESIGN BAR EQUIPMENT FOR ERGONOMIC EFFICIENCY

Bars are factories which make drinks, so what are the necessary provisions for maximizing ergonomic efficiency and owner profits, while reducing work comp claims?

UNIVERSAL BAR CLEARANCES AND SPECIFICATIONS w/ADA

5. DESIGNING BAR FINISHES

Once the bar layout has been determined, there are a myriad of options for creating the finish. The following is a top 7 list of commercial bar finishing options:

  1. Soffits
  2. Ceiling treatments
  3. Wall coverings
  4. Architectural lighting
  5. Bar tops
  6. Bar cladding
  7. Foot rails

The following is an expanded version of that list, with all the finishing options. Bar owners need to invest in design in order to retain their customers.

Top 7 List of Bar Finishes

6. HOW TO DESIGN A DRAFT BEER SYSTEM

Nearly every commercial bar client we have wants to get in on selling craft beer, but the choices for equipment are numerous and this requires careful planning.

Photo of Bar with Draft Beer Tower on Island Back Bar

7. HOW MUCH DO BARS COST? (BUDGETING)

For most, this ranks as the most critical aspect of bar planning, but in order to make the budget work, one needs command of the above. One of the largest line items in bar planning is the equipment. Every bar needs a myriad of bar equipment, such as dump sinks, hand sinks, 3-bin sinks, glass washers, drainboards, soda gun holders, ice bins, combination ice bins, speedrails, blender stations, POS stations, coolers, waste baskets, ice machines….the list goes on and on. Some companies, such ‘Easy Ice’ and ‘Ecolab’, help you alleviate the cost of capital outlay, by offering subscriptions.

Here’s a copy of our ‘Bar Equipment Price List’ for your reference. A clickable version is listed below.

My favorite reference book for architectural standards:

https://amzn.to/38q3piJ

DOWNLOADS FOR THIS POST:

ITEMIZED BAR EQUIPMENT PRICE LIST FOR 2022

BAR DESIGNERS’ LIST OF BAR FINISHES

 

POPULAR DOWNLOADS:

STANDARD BAR CLEARANCES w/ADA

ADA GUIDE FOR SMALL BUSINESSES

BAR AND RESTAURANT SEATING GUIDELINES

 

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!

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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.