How to Design and Build a Commercial Bar – Top 5 Ideas

Cabaret Design Group

How do you design and build a commercial bar? We’ll discuss basic bar construction, such as footrest design, bar tops and supportsdimensions and other tips.

SOME TIPS ON COMMERCIAL BAR DESIGN

The bar base is the foundation and therefore is the most critical element to the overall design and construction of the bar. Just as with any structure, if the foundation is weak the overall integrity of the building will be compromised. A section view of a standard bar die with wood studs is shown in Figure 1 below:

 

  • We prefer 3 5/8” x 1″ x 1/2” metal studs spaced on 16” centers.
  • Most contractors prefer 2″ x 4″ wood studs of the same size are acceptable, provided they are fire treated.
  • The base plate should be anchored securely to the floor. If you are using a wood treated plate and a concrete slab, use ½” x 5” expansion anchors on 24” centers.
  • Fire treated wood sheathing should be applied inside and outside, from top to bottom, using ½” MDF plywood.
  • The inside face should be finished with FRP over ½” Durock. 
  • Apply any type of exterior cladding you wish.
ARCHITECTURAL DRAWING OF BAR DIE USING WOOD STUDS AS FRAMING MEMBERS
FIGURE 1. TYPICAL BAR SECTION USING WOOD STUDS

WHAT IS THE MOST EFFECTIVE DESIGN OF A COMMERCIAL BAR TOP SUPPORT?

What do you need to know about how to design and build a commercial bar? There are many misconceptions about proper bar top support. We simply recommend one layer of 3/4″ marine grade plywood, fastened with 2 1/2″ deck screws every 12″. We use this method very successfully to support wood tops, granite and quartz. I’ve seen bar owners use steel brackets to support their bar tops. This just isn’t necessary.

 

  • The most critical factors for bar top underlayment performance are flatness and resistance to water.
  • Marine grade plywood provides a stable, flat surface and is resistant to water. It is easy to cut with a CNC router and will resist water that wicks from the bar top.
  • CDX plywood has neither of the above qualities.
  • MDF is very stable but lacks water resistance.

BAR DESIGN TIP:

A single layer of 3/4″ marine grade plywood is the best underlayment for bar tops. It offers superior stability for cutting and water resistance.

Downloadable:
Standard Universal Bar Clearances

Layout Dimensions to Design and Build a Commercial Bar
FIGURE 2. ARCHITECTURAL DRAWING OF STANDARD UNIVERSAL BAR CLEARANCES

QUESTION:

Have you heard about Jon Taffer’s invention? READ HERE about Jon’s world-class Zero-Step “Taffer Command Station” by Krowne. 

JON TAFFER ENDORSEMENT

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

When planning new restaurant bars, the facts most hospitality experts agree on are:

  • Back-of-the-house generally accounts for 30 – 40% of the total building area.
  • 60 – 70% of a given building’s space is designated as front-of-the-house, which is the area intended for customers.
  • The 10% variance is normally the result of the complexity of the menu.
    Sports bars tend to require less kitchen space, whereas fine dining requires more.

 

Analysis of restaurant occupancy space

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:

  • Soffits
  • Ceiling treatments
  • Wall coverings
  • Architectural lighting
  • Bar tops
  • Bar cladding
  • Foot rails
Top 7 List of Bar Finishes

A list of Top 7 commercial bar finishing options

Bar top overhang is a very misunderstood concept.

  • The universal standard is for the inside edge of the bar top to overhang the inside face of the bar base by 11".
  • Exterior overhang is subjective and normally varies from 6" - 8", although some of our clients have requested as much as 12".
  • The most common size we specify for bar tops is 24".

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT COMMERCIAL BAR TOPS

Referring to Figure 2 (above), the finished height of bar tops should be between 42” – 45″ (1,067mm – 1,143mm). Bar stools (top of cushion) range between 30” – 33″ (762mm – 838mm) and a 12” (305mm) separation between the two is recommended. I’m a proponent of durable surfaces, so it’s no secret that I prefer quartz for bar tops.

  • Bar top depth normally ranges from 24” – 30” (610mm – 762mm), depending on personal preference.
  • Bar tops in the 24″ – 30″ range (including drink rail) provide an overhang of 7″ – 9″.
  • The amount of overhang is purely subjective. I’ve had clients who like 12″ of overhang.
  • The limiting factor is based on economics.
  • Drink rails, which provide an area for the bartender to make drinks with built-in drainage, are a matter of personal preference. Drink rails are not required by health departments. 
  • Glastender offers a 4″ (102mm) stainless steel add-on drink rail. 
  • My personal preference is a 6 1/2″ (165mm) because of its superior platform, shown in the photo below.
  • When planning your bar top, be sure to deduct the depth of your drink rail from the overall depth.
  • The Glastender drink rail fastens to the bottom of the bar top, which may require further modifications; the downloadable cut sheet is below.
Looking for tips about how to design and build a commercial bar? Try this 6.5 inch stainless steel drink rail
PHOTO OF 6.5 INCH STAINLESS STEEL DRINK RAIL

 

Downloadable:
Glastender Model DR Drink Rails

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FOOT REST CONSIDERATIONS WHEN DESIGNING & BUILDING COMMERCIAL BARS

How to design and build a commercial bar begins with the foot rail. Any bar that doesn’t include a foot rail is like flushing your money down the toilet! I recall visiting a popular, upscale restaurant in Chicago a few years ago. Everybody was raving about the beautiful bar and I could hardly wait to see it. The minute I entered the bar area I couldn’t help but notice two things: the beautiful granite cladding on the bar face – and the MISSING foot rail!

Don’t fall into the trap of not including a foot rail or your customers will not be staying long. There are two solutions to this problem. The most basic foot rail is the old-fashioned brass kit. Personally, I hate this approach, but at least it’s better than not having a foot rail. The brass hardware doesn’t hold-up very long and the first thing to go is the finish. The other problem is it tends to fall apart. Lightweight foot rails are a waste of money.

 

WHAT IS THE BEST FOOT REST FOR BARS?

The most effective and popular foot rests today are:

  • 2″ x 12 ga. square steel tubing (as shown in the photo below)
  • 1.5″ Sch. 40 cast iron
  • 1.9″ x 12 ga. stainless steel tubing

BAR DESIGN TIP:

Foot rests fabricated from steel or cast iron should include a powder-coated finish because of the discoloration of the metal and any welding that may be required.

Want to know how to design and build a commercial bar? Try this tubular steel foot rail
PHOTO OF FOOT RAIL FABRICATED FROM SQUARE STEEL TUBING

ADDITIONAL TIPS ABOUT DESIGNING AND BUILDING COMMERCIAL BARS

Looking for a few more tips for how to design and build a commercial bar? Check this out:

  • If you want to add a great-looking, traditional wood bar edge, you’ll want to consider calling my good friend, Larry Wolfe, at Lawrence Corp. in Amherst, NY.
  • Hinged bar gates do not hold up to everyday wear-and-tear. If anything, they’re a liability. Did you know that a 36″ x 24″ quartz bar gate (with plywood underlayment) weighs 100 pounds? Nobody can lift and lower that without injury. The best bar gate is the type that utilizes a mechanical lift assistance mechanism (refer to the photo below).
  • The best drink rail should be 6 1/2″ deep as shown in the photo above.
Photo of bar lift gate assist mechanism
PHOTO OF BAR LIFT GATE ASSIST MECHANISM

Need Help Planning Your restaurant and bar?

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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,
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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.

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

Kevin Moll

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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.

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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.

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Craig Pendleton

F & B Consultant | Founder,
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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,
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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.