Ergonomic Efficient Bar Design Maximizes Profits

Cabaret Design Group

How does ergonomic bar design create maximum bar profitability? Ergonomic efficient bar design in bar equipment plans increases bartender efficiency and maximizes bar profits.

 

ERGONOMIC BAR DESIGN FOR MAXIMUM BAR PROFITABILITY

As I’ve written previously, bars are factories that make drinks. Manufacturing companies invest heavily in making their factories efficient and this includes implementing the principles of ergonomic design (as seen in the Photo at right). Ergonomics is the study of workers and their environment. As a result, when you incorporate ergonomic guidelines to maximize worker efficiency, you give yourself a chance to succeed in maximizing profitability. Therefore, with ergonomic design standards implemented into your bar layout, your bartenders will have far less strain and fatigue, leading you to maximum bar profits. For your reference, I’ve put together a downloadable sketch for you to see the ideal bar clearances for ergonomic design.

ERGONOMICS FOR BAR DESIGN IS SIMILAR TO AUTOMATED ASSEMBLY LINES
ERGONOMICALLY EFFICIENT ASSEMBLY LINE WORKERS

IN NEED OF BAR DESIGN ADVICE?

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 $99 you might 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:

  • How many bars do I need?
  • What are the bar layout dimensions for ergonomic bar design?
  • How much space do I need for an ADA accommodation?
  • Do I need a glycol draft beer system or a kegerator?
  • What’s the best bar shape?

Solving bar design problems and answering questions is all I do. In all my years of experience there isn’t much I haven’t done or seen. For a nominal investment I can help you with many of your most pressing bar design issues. For as little as $99 you can talk with me for 15 minutes. My one-hour package includes a Zoom conference call.

Don’t make a costly mistake! Schedule an appointment today! But don’t delay… I only consult part time because I’m busy designing bars.

Go to my scheduling module (below) and book your appointment immediately! Hurry, space is limited!

 

 

Whose bar equipment is best? Would you believe that there are only three companies worthy of consideration? If you’re in the market for bar equipment, you might be surprised to know that in my book, there are only three legitimate choices. There’s a lot to know when making a decision to purchase bar equipment, …

Looking for a high-value piece of underbar equipment? Are you aware of the growing trend away from soda guns? Many people need a unique piece of bar equipment, and Krowne’s new low-profile bar cooler will solve many evolving problems bar owners are facing! Learn all about coolers, which ones to use and why you …

STUCK ON YOUR BAR DESIGN? CALL US NOW…

WHAT ARE THE ergonomic design standards?

 

The following is a summary of the ergonomic dimensions for efficient bar design (metric in parentheses):

  • Bar height should be 42” – 45” (1067mm – 1143mm).
  • The bar top should be 30” – 36” (762mm – 914mm).
  • The inside edge of the bar top should overhang the bar die by 11” (279mm).
  • The width of the aisle should be 31” – 37” (787mm – 940mm).
  • The height of the highest reachable shelf of the backbar should be 69” – 72” (1753mm – 1829mm).
  • Other stocking shelves can be higher, but these are not functional for bartending – only for stocking.
  • Maintain 18” (457mm) from the shelf below.
  • 2-shelf backbar liquor displays should be 9” – 10”W (229mm – 254mm) and each step should be 4” – 5”H (102mm – 127mm).
  • Allow for 18″ – 24″ (457mm – 610mm) for patrons sitting at the bar (referenced from the outside edge of the bar top).
  • Aisle space directly behind the bar patrons should be 30″ (462mm).
  • Drink rails should be 10″ – 12″ deep (254mm – 305mm) and should be set at the same height as the bar top.
  • Allow for 18″ (457mm) standing room in front of a drink rail and 24″ (610mm) if bar stools are used.
  • The overall distance between the edge of the bar and the adjacent wall should be 76″ – 90″ (1930mm – 2286mm).


DOWNLOADS:
STANDARD_UNIVERSAL_BAR_CLEARANCES.pdf

ERGONOMICS IN BAR DESIGN IS BASED ON EFFICIENT BARTENDER MOVEMENT
STANDARD UNIVERSAL BAR CLEARANCES WITH ADA

SOME INSIGHT ABOUT BAR AISLE WIDTHS

In terms of aisle sizes, I’ve seen just about everything. Bars designed for small rooms present different challenges, and I’ll be the first guy to tell you not to pass-up an opportunity. Here’s what you really need to know:

  • The reality is that sometimes you have to work with what you’ve inherited.
  • Architectural standards call for 30″ – 36″.
  • For the best operating bar, try to maintain a 34″ – 36” aisle, especially for bars that utilize bar backs.
  • In the real world, 32″ bartender aisles are very common. 

 

My favorite architectural reference book: https://amzn.to/2vN3YpM

My favorite glass chiller: https://amzn.to/2Uuotjk

Cabaret Design Group
PHOTO OF BAR WITH 32" BARTENDER AISLE

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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".
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