- Bar die construction – stick built or modular bar die
- Bar shape
- Overhang preference
BAR DIE CONSTRUCTION
For me, the method of bar die construction is what differentiates the countertop size. When I refer to “bar die”, I’m referring to the bar support base. Some clients want to “stick-build” the bar die with 2″ x 4″ lumber. My preference is the modular bar die, which is a factory-built modified metal stud that’s 5 9/16″ wide. Additionally, the modular bar die requires hardware for removable panels that make the entire base deeper. In short, I recommend minimum 24″ tops for wood bar die and 26″ bar tops for modular bar die. An example of both are illustrated in the sketch below.
BAR SHAPE
The shape of the bar also influences the size of the countertop. For example, consider the elliptical shaped bar. The geometry of the ellipse is not constant – consisting of two intersecting radii, as shown in the photo below. For this bar we had to use a 32 1/2″ top in order to achieve acceptable coverage throughout. On the other hand, countertops of curved bars with a long, constant radius yield standard overhangs, similar to that of rectangular bars.
OVERHANG PREFERENCE
To me, the style of bar die construction is only one factor that drives countertop size. The Owner’s preference is occasionally the determining factor. Each of us has our own perception of proper overhang. I recall a bar we designed where the Owner believed that the overhang needed to be 12″! I was curious where he got this idea, because the standard overhang (on the customer’s-side of the bar) only needs to be 6″ – 8″. He told me that he’d seen a bar with such an overhang! Folks, bartops don’t need an excessive amount of overhang. When all was said and done, we compromised with a 28″ top, which yielded a clearance of 9 7/16″.
