There is a solution: a folding transforming bar counter for the kitchen

In modern conditions, apartment owners strive to extract maximum functionality from every available square meter. This is caused by the rapid densification of residential buildings and mass migration of the population to large cities. A successful example of such unification is a folding transforming bar counter for the kitchen. It harmoniously combines wide functionality and allows you to diversify the standard kitchen interior.

Advantages of transformable bar counters

The folding bar counter is a modified version of the restaurant model, adapted specifically for small living spaces.

Thanks to the beneficial combination of compactness and functionality, the use of such a bar counter allows you to achieve the following advantages:

• increasing the available working surface;
• compactness and the ability to integrate into almost any interior;
• with its help you can delimit space and separate the work area from the eating area;
• in small kitchens it can act as a small folding table or a place for a tea break.

Required Tools

If you need to make a folding table for a balcony, which will also look like a professional design, then you simply won’t be able to do it without modern tools.

By the way, in addition to hand tools, you also need electric ones. Here is a list of tools without which a wall-mounted folding table will not work:

A jigsaw is a must. It will help you cut table material accurately and efficiently. You can replace it with a hacksaw. But using it, you can forget about the perfect cut; for it, the cut will have to be polished.

A milling machine and attachments for it will be needed for processing edges, drilling holes and cutting grooves. Plus, it can be used to cut out decor for furniture.

A sander will be needed to smooth the surfaces.

You definitely can’t do without an electric drill. It will be used to drill holes. Plus, it requires drills for concrete and wood.

Clamps may be needed if glue and screed are used as temporary fasteners. They should not be used as permanent fixtures.

You will also need an office for marking (markers, tape measures), if you have a level and a square, this will be a plus.

You can replace them with manual analogues, but it will take more time. It’s too early to give recommendations on the quantity and type of material, because everything is individual.

Varieties

Depending on the design features, folding bar counters for the kitchen are divided into the following groups.

Folding

They represent a beneficial combination of ergonomics, design and functionality. When folded, the folding bar counter looks like a small bedside table that functions as a table for a quick breakfast.

As a rule, it has an island arrangement, that is, it is placed separately from the main kitchen unit.

Folding table with wall mounting

At first, mounting to the wall does not seem like a very rational solution. But this is only at first glance. In fact, if you manage your space wisely, you can easily use never-used square meters.

Where? Above the central heating radiator. Great solution because:

There are quite a lot of advantages of this design, but presenting a drawing is completely useless, since everyone’s conditions are different.

The main design elements of this folding table are the wall mounting system.

This can be either a metal corner sewn to a concrete wall with dowels, or a wooden beam as a base. It is quite simple to assemble the structure based on furniture fittings; we have already found several options for such a table and presented them in the form of pictures. Good decision, isn't it?

Device

A standard folding stand consists of three main elements: an upper and lower part, as well as a transforming mechanism. Let's look at each of the elements in more detail.

Upper part (table top)

A wide range of materials can be used to make countertops, such as:

• tree — when making countertops from natural wood, both budget materials (spruce, pine, larch) and more noble varieties (beech, oak, exotic species) are used. Natural solid wood can be given almost any shape, painted with carvings or decorative elements. The finished product has good performance characteristics, resistant to wear and mechanical damage;

• metal - a metal countertop will be appropriate in rooms designed in high-tech, loft or futurism style, as well as in combination with the main kitchen set made of a similar material. To make metal countertops, glossy or matte stainless steel, aluminum and even sheet copper are used. The finished tabletop is quite durable and resistant to mechanical damage. The disadvantages of a metal bar counter include unpleasant tactile sensations and poor combination with other interior solutions;
• Laminated chipboard is a modern, practical material. The base of the table top is made of chipboard. Decorative kraft paper is applied to the surface, acting as a decorative and fastening element. For protection, a layer of high-pressure plastic (overlay) is applied on top. As a result, the finished tabletop withstands mechanical damage well and is not afraid of moisture. The main advantages of a countertop made of LSDP are its decorative properties and price. The cost of material and work for this material is significantly lower than for products made of natural wood, stone or metal. And with the help of digital printing, a pattern can be applied to the surface of the chipboard that imitates wood, natural or artificial stone, or any ornament or pattern;
• MDF - differs from laminated chipboard only in the base material, which is fibreboard. Otherwise, the products have a similar production process - the base is covered with kraft paper, liquid plastic and laminated. The finished product is not resistant to impacts, scratches and excessive moisture. Using postforming, the surface can be designed to resemble natural materials or create your own unique pattern;

• a natural stone — countertops made of natural stone look very presentable, in addition, they are highly durable and durable. Due to the significant weight of the product, the use of natural stone in folding bar counters is quite problematic - for it you need to prepare a solid base;

• artificial stone is a modern composite material with texture and color that imitates a natural stone panel. They are distinguished by their strength and durability, and if damaged they can be easily restored. They are considered an environmentally friendly material that does not emit harmful components. The only drawback can be considered the relatively high price, compared to other artificial materials;
• glass - a glass bar top can rightfully be considered the highlight of any interior. For its production, special high-strength glass is used, which can be: frosted;
• transparent;
• hardened;
• multi-colored with additional patterns.

A tabletop made of glass can be used in multi-level structures with other materials. It is distinguished by sufficient strength - it can only be broken with a targeted and very strong blow. This surface is not susceptible to moisture, high temperatures, or chemicals. If scratches or chips appear, it can be easily restored by polishing.

Each of the above materials has its own advantages and disadvantages, as well as requirements for care and operation.

Bottom part

The choice of material for the bottom of the bar directly depends on the countertop. First of all, it is necessary to calculate the load that will fall on the supporting structure.

For example, if the tabletop is made of metal, glass or stone, it is recommended to use metal supports. For laminated chipboard, MDF or natural wood, wooden legs are more suitable.

The design of the supports depends on the type of bar counter. Rotary models are equipped with a leg with a wheel at the bottom. Folding or folding bar counters use U-shaped or V-shaped folding supports equipped with a transforming mechanism. Using this system allows you to hide the leg under the tabletop when folded.

Transforming mechanism

Located between the top and bottom of the bar counter. Serves to move the tabletop to the “working” position. The type of mechanism used directly depends on the type of bar counter.

Roller mechanism. It is used in retractable models that are hidden under the main countertop of the kitchen unit. They are a combination of metal runners and plastic wheels.

Hinge mechanism. Used in rotary models. It consists of two metal or plastic plates with a special recess into which a bearing ball is installed.

Loop mechanism. Used in folding and folding models. The fastening scheme can be presented in two options:

• wall-tabletop;
• lower-upper parts of the bar counter.

Variety of design solutions

You should proceed from the parameters of the room. For installation in large kitchens, any options can be considered. In this case, the most popular solution is a bar counter in the form of an island, mounted separately from the kitchen unit. If the room is small, it is necessary to consider other designs: transformers, folding, rotating, corner, for installation along walls or windows. Options such as a stand-table and a design with many drawers are also popular. These types of bar counters save space.

In the form of an island

The ideal solution if you have free space would be a kitchen unit and a free-standing bar counter (island type). This design allows you to simultaneously solve several problems: it increases the working surface area, and is used as a dining table and bar counter. The product is often installed in the middle of the room. If you are setting up a studio apartment, place a partition at the central point of the area reserved for the kitchen.

Such designs are varied, but in most cases a stand is installed in the form of a cabinet, which contains drawers and built-in communications, making it possible to install even a sink. If you are choosing a dining table for a spacious kitchen, the best solution would be a bar counter. However, for this purpose it is recommended to purchase a structure without additional elements. To use this piece of furniture as a dining table, the simplest model is enough.

Folding transformer designs

When unfolded, such products represent a full-fledged rack. If you fold it, some space will be freed up, which is essential for small apartments. Folding structures can be attached to any wall. They consist of a working surface (tabletop) and a stop (pipe)/brackets.

The interior of the kitchen with a folding bar counter looks rustic. However, if you don't have enough space, you can sacrifice sophistication by choosing a functional, but less attractive product. The dimensions of transforming racks vary. However, small models are in greater demand than others. This is a justified choice, considering that a folding bar counter is often installed in small kitchens.

Transformable structures are offered in two versions:

• folding;
• sliding

Products of the first group are completely foldable. Sliding racks do not change in shape and configuration. They are a structure that, if necessary, is pulled out from under the tabletop. A sliding transformable bar counter for a small kitchen is also more suitable than solid, stationary counterparts. When choosing such a model, you should provide free space next to the tabletop, near which the structure will be installed.

In corner kitchens

If the set is installed in the corner of the room, you can place a bar counter on one side. Thanks to the partition, the illusion of a separate kitchen is created. If you look from the outside, this is how this room is perceived. The corner bar counter for the kitchen can be installed in several ways:

• in the form of a separate partition that serves as an additional tabletop;
• as a continuation of the headset.

The last option is preferable. At the same time, the design looks more organic. It is important to use the same material for the countertops, then you will be able to create the appearance of a solid product. If the stand is installed separately, the seam may be visible. It is covered with an aluminum cover. It is not necessary to make a corner; you can place a semicircular structure in the kitchen. At the same time, there is a slight saving in space. Corner kitchens with a bar counter are often equipped along with the installation of an island-type product.

Folding and rotating

Both options are inferior in appearance to solid, stationary products. Folding bar counters allow you to temporarily increase the cooking area, after which the structure is assembled. The tabletop can be lifted, in some models it is lowered. Brackets and screws are used to secure the folding work surface. If a mobile mobile structure is being considered, it can be installed in any convenient place, but the height of this product should be slightly lower than the tabletop under which it is planned to be hidden.

The rotating bar counter is a structure with a pipe. It not only extends from under the hiding work surface, but can also be positioned at any angle: perpendicular or along the tabletop.

Such models are combined. They are called retractable. You can use an attached type rack. It becomes part of an island or table, as it increases the working surface area. There is no attachment to the wall or furniture. The design is independent. You can even make this type of bar counter with your own hands.

Along the walls

This is more of a functional solution than a design move. The need to place the product along the wall is often due to the minimum free space. In addition, such structures can be transformed, which further saves space. The stand is also placed against the wall with the aim of replacing a full-fledged dining table with such a product, which also stems from the need to free up some space in the kitchen.

The wall-mounted bar counter is not much reminiscent of an attractive stationary structure installed in the center of the room (island type). If you mount such a product near a wall, you will need an additional lighting source, since you will have to sit with your back to the ceiling lamp and window. Users who prefer this model are right about one thing - a wall-mounted bar counter takes up little space, especially if its height allows you to hide chairs under the tabletop.

By the window

The rack is placed parallel or perpendicular to the window block; the choice of its position is determined by the configuration of the kitchen and the presence/absence of free space near the opening. It is more convenient to install this structure along the window sill. This saves space. This option is suitable for small spaces, for example, when it is not possible to install a dining table.

If the area of ​​the room is significant, you can place the stand near the window perpendicular to the opening. This method is also suitable for cases when it is necessary to delimit a studio apartment, separating the kitchen from the living room. This method is advisable to use if the window is located near the kitchen unit.

With shelves and drawers

This option is a structure closed on one or both sides. Its advantage is the ability to use additional shelves and drawers. It is advisable to install a product of this type in the kitchen, where food is often prepared, and for this purpose a large number of dishes, accessories, and containers for bulk and dry products were purchased. At the same time, it becomes possible to feel more free in the work area, since some space will be freed up on other shelves and surfaces.

It is recommended to install a design option that is open on one side. In this case, it is much more comfortable to sit: there is space under the tabletop where you can place your feet.

There will be drawers/shelves on the sides and back wall of the free-standing structure. Those users who prefer completely open racks will have to abandon this option, since it does not provide the ability to install additional structural elements.

Stand-table

This is a combined option; it is a two-level design. The dining table and bar counter are combined. The lower level is used during meals. The part of the structure with the working surface located above is used as a rack. This option helps free up space. It is safe for children, because there is no need to seat children on high chairs.

The kitchen table under the bar counter has a small area. For this reason, it will not be possible to place several chairs next to the lower tabletop; no more than 2 pieces can be placed here. Accordingly, it is recommended to install a counter-table in small-sized kitchens.

Location

The design and functionality of the bar counter depends on its location in the room. From the point of view of dislocation, the following types of mobile bar counters are distinguished:

• island Located separately from the main kitchen unit. Unlike a stationary bar, it can have wheels and move freely around the room. Equipped with drawers and shelves for storing drinks and kitchen utensils;
• combined. It is a logical continuation of the main working surface. As a rule, it is performed in the same style as the main kitchen set. Depending on the material of the tabletop, it is equipped with U-shaped or V-shaped legs made of metal or wood. It is advisable to plan the manufacture of such a bar counter together with kitchen furniture;
• two-level. A distinctive feature of this modification is that the bar counter is located above or below the main working surface. It can be equipped with a retractable, roll-out, rotary mechanism or located higher, strengthened with special supports;
• wall-mounted A relatively cheap option, which consists of a table top and a transforming mechanism. Attached to the wall using self-tapping screws or dowels. When folded, it takes up virtually no free space and will fit perfectly into the interior of a small kitchen, serving as a folding bar table;
• based on the window sill. In conditions of limited space, a bar counter can be installed directly on the windowsill of the kitchen or loggia. It does not take up precious meters of free space and can be used for a small snack and a morning cup of coffee.

Materials

The tabletop itself is easiest to make to order, but you can also make it yourself from a regular MDF panel. Alternatively, the tabletop can be made of solid wood, plywood and other wood derivatives. The main thing is to process it correctly so that it looks beautiful. Composite material that resembles stone in appearance is now very popular. But it differs in lightness and low price from its natural counterpart. And that’s why countertops for bar counters are often made from it.

Semicircular bar counter in the kitchen

In some cases, the base of the rack can be made of brick, covered with tiles. Metal poles or ordinary wooden legs can also be used as support.

On a note! Sometimes you can use improvised materials to make bar counters. It is quite possible to take as a basis even pallets that are used for transporting goods.

Alternative to the kitchen table

Types (open or closed)

The closed bar counter has an island arrangement and is a cabinet equipped with drawers or shelves for storing various small items. It will look harmonious in a large room, but in a small kitchen it will look unnecessarily bulky.

At the same time, open bar counters look light and do not take up much free space. They consist of a table top, a support and a transforming mechanism.

Making a table for the balcony with your own hands

If the finished products are not satisfactory in size, appearance or cost, there is always the opportunity to assemble a folding structure yourself. Moreover, the process does not cause any particular difficulties.

To manufacture the structure, you need to stock up on material, hinges and fasteners. The tabletop can be cut from furniture board, thick plywood, chipboard or MDF.

What is the difference between MDF and laminated chipboard?

If slabs are used, it is recommended to finish the ends with an edge that matches the color. To do this, you will need an iron and a sharp knife to cut off the excess. When installing a table in a room decorated with wood, a wooden table top will look more harmonious.

An option is proposed for producing the simplest design of a folding table from furniture panels for a balcony.

Two parts made of chipboard will be used as supports (can also be made of wood, but we used what was at hand). You can make one support, but the table turns out to be quite large, so for the strength of the structure it is better to install two support elements that fold in different directions. You will also need two bars. One is for fastening the tabletop, the second is for fixing the supports.

Table. Materials and equipment for making a table.

Step 1.

The furniture board is varnished and dried.

Furniture board

If necessary, the tabletop can be polished (before applying paint)

Step 2.

Markings are applied to the wall to secure the block. It will be installed at a height of 700 mm from the floor. When carrying out work, you must use a level.

Step 3.

Using four self-tapping screws, the block is fixed to the wall.

Step 4.

At a distance of 30 mm from the edges, two door hinges are attached to it.

Step 5.

Two triangular parts are cut out of a piece of laminated chipboard (or the triangles are assembled from timber), which will serve as supports.

Assembling a triangular support from bars

The bars are fastened with self-tapping screws and a perforated corner. For reliability, all joints are glued with wood glue

Step 6.

Both support legs are applied vertically. Marks are made for attaching piano (furniture) hinges.

Step 7

Furniture hinges are attached with self-tapping screws to the legs and the wall.

The corners are held on piano hinges

This is what the supports look like when folded

Step 8

A block is attached to the inside of the tabletop (parallel to the first one). The distance from the outer edge is 200 mm.

Step 10. The table top is placed on top of a block with hinges attached to the wall. On the inside, it is attached with self-tapping screws to the free hinge flap.

The tabletop is supported by two short hinges located horizontally. There is a beam fixed under the tabletop

Folded table

A functional and reliable structure that does not take up extra space on the balcony is ready. If necessary, the table top rises, the legs move at an angle to the center and securely hold the structure.

Compact structures purchased from the manufacturer or assembled with your own hands, distinguished by budget and functionality, in some cases are irreplaceable interior items.

Dimensions

Like other furniture, bar counters have certain standard dimensions, such as height and width. When ordering a stand for an individual project, you can specify any size, but it is best to adhere to generally accepted standards. Then it will be easier to select additional accessories and components.

Height

It varies in the range of 860–1300 mm, but the standard height range is 1100–1150 mm. The optimal height for an island bar counter is considered to be 1050 mm, and for one combined with a kitchen unit - 900 mm.

Read more in the article: Selecting the height of the bar counter: a complete guide

When choosing a height, you should take into account the physiological and age composition of the family, as well as the functionality of the furniture. For example, it will be difficult for elderly people and children to use a stand whose height will reach 1300 mm.

At the same time, if it is planned as an additional working surface, you should not design the height below 100 mm. Otherwise, there will be additional stress on your back when working.

Width

Depends on the functions performed. The minimum size is 300 mm, which can be used as an additional working surface for a kitchen set.

If the bar is planned as a full-fledged replacement for the dining table, its width should be from 500 mm. This width is quite enough for a full serving per person.

Length

When calculating the length of the bar counter, it is necessary to start from the dimensions of the room and the number of family members.

The generally accepted norm for space per person is 60 cm. However, when designing, it is advisable to take into account the size of each family member. This approach will help create comfortable conditions for eating and relaxing.

The total length of the rack is limited only by the amount of free space. The main thing is that the finished product fits harmoniously into the interior and does not create interference when moving.

How is the height of a dining table calculated?

The height of manufactured tables is measured from the floor to the top edge of the tabletop and ranges from 72 to 78 centimeters, and the height of the chair is measured from the floor to the seat and ranges from 40 to 45 centimeters, the ideal height is 42 cm.

How is the height of the kitchen table calculated for a specific individual? Let's use a simple and simple mathematical formula: table height = human height * 75 / 165. The number 75 is the standard height of a dining table, and 165 is the average human height in centimeters.

To calculate the height of the chair, you need to subtract from the result obtained:

• 45 cm for tall people.
• 42-43 cm for average height (close to 165 cm).
• 40 cm for short people.

If you are a person of average height, 170 cm, the formula for calculating the height of the dining table will be as follows: 170 * 75 / 165 = 77.3 cm

The height of the chair for such a person will be: 77.3 – 45 = 32.3 cm.

But in real life everything is more complicated; these are calculations for a specific person for his specific height. And a whole family will sit at the kitchen table, each family member has his own height. Even for two people, you already need to calculate the average height, and then recalculate the height of the dining table. For example, if the wife’s height is 170 cm and the husband’s height is 180 cm, we get the average height for two – 175 cm.

For it we calculate the height of the kitchen table: 175 * 75 / 165 = 79.5 cm

If your family consists of 3 or more people, then you need to calculate the average height of the entire family (add up all the heights of each family member and divide by the number of family members), and then recalculate the height of the table using the above formula.

It’s a little easier to “fight” with chairs - some of them are equipped with adjustable legs. You can also purchase special elastic pillows that are placed on the seats of chairs and add the necessary height in each specific case. Thus, their height can be artificially adjusted to the existing height of the tabletop. Then lunch for everyone present turns into a joyful and comfortable event.

What is the correct chair height for a kitchen table? What should the table be like? You shouldn’t eat and work at the same table, and here’s why – the height and height of the work table should be different. Consider the height of the kitchen table.

Selection of bar stools

When calculating the dimensions, it is important to take into account the parameters of bar stools, which differ from ordinary heights and are divided into two types - regular and folding.

The classic bar stool is practically no different from its counterpart from entertainment venues. Can be adjusted in height, have one support or four legs. Some models are equipped with additional armrests and backrest.

A folding bar stool with a backrest is a modern modification of the classic version, which has two important advantages - compactness and mobility, which are achieved by removing the rivet that connects and fixes adjacent legs. When folded, they easily fit in a pantry, balcony or other hidden place.

When choosing bar stools, you should be guided by the following tips:

• Before purchasing, you need to decide on the style, height and material of the bar counter. They must be suitable in height, harmoniously combined and create a single compositional space with the stand;
• When purchasing a wooden model, you must carefully inspect the chair for abrasions, chips or cracks. Such minor defects spoil the appearance and can lead to subsequent damage to the product;
• the transforming mechanism must be in good working order and work without squeaks or jamming;
• before purchasing, you need to decide on the number of chairs and choose a place to store them;
• if the model has several legs, they should be the same length. Even a small difference, just a few millimeters, will cause the structure to become unstable and may result in an unexpected fall.

The best choice would be furniture from proven and reliable manufacturers with a positive reputation in the market.

Step-by-step master class on self-production

Wanting to save money, many people make a table with their own hands. This is not difficult, but requires compliance with certain requirements.

Wall mounted kitchen wall mounted

To make a folding table with your own hands, you will need to prepare plywood sheets; you can also use chipboard or MDF as a basis. Additionally, you will need screws, hinges, confirmations and anchors.

Manufacturing algorithm:

1. Prepare a drawing of the model and parts separately. Moreover, it is necessary to draw a diagram according to the exact dimensions of the future product.
2. To make a tabletop, use an electric jigsaw to cut the selected material, giving it the desired shape.
3. Using a sanding machine, sand the edges of the product and cover them with special tape.
4. Prepare supports. This can be a triangle or a support element in the shape of the letter P. For a small wall-mounted tabletop, a triangular-shaped support is most suitable. It is secured with a bracket on the wall and hinges to the tabletop. Using two strips on both sides, the structure can be strengthened.
5. Attach the triangular support to the back.
6. Mount the structure to the tabletop using hinges.
7. Attach the wall table itself.

A suitable place to install a wall-mounted folding table is the wall next to the window sill.

Cut the material into the desired shape, process the edges of the product and cover it with special tape.

Prepare the supports Paint the parts, attach the triangular support to the back, mount the structure to the tabletop Attach the wall-mounted table

Desk folding with cabinet

You need to prepare:

• sheet material for assembling the cabinet box, the thickness of which is at least 16 mm;
• a block for fixing the structure to the wall;
• chipboard or MDF sheets for countertops;
• strip for mounting the product on the wall;
• wooden beams for making supports.

In addition, you will need screws, furniture corners, and a bracket. The manufacturing process itself differs little from assembling a regular wall table, because the cabinet is a box without a back wall:

1. The parts are fastened with self-tapping screws and reinforced with metal furniture corners. If desired, shelves and partitions can be secured inside the cabinet using corners.
2. The tabletop is cut to the size of the previously made box. The edges are processed and secured to the bottom crossbar of the cabinet using brackets.
3. Assemble a U-shaped support from the beams and fix it with loops to the tabletop.
4. They make fasteners that will hold the tabletop in the assembled state. The table is ready.

Installing such a model does not require a lot of time and effort; the main thing is to choose the right place so that nothing interferes with the product’s unfolding and folding.

Fasten the parts with self-tapping screws and reinforce them with metal furniture corners. Cut the tabletop to the size of the box, process the edges and secure it to the cabinet crossbar.

Assemble the support and attach it to the tabletop

Make fasteners and install the structure on the wall

If desired, attach shelves inside the cabinet

Design

When choosing a bar counter, you need to pay attention not only to its functionality, but also to its design. A responsible approach to choosing the style of the counter will create an atmosphere of harmony and comfort in the room.

Color

When choosing a color for a bar counter, it is customary to be guided by two options:

• classic . The countertop is selected in a similar color scheme to the kitchen unit and the surrounding space. In this case, it will harmoniously combine with the overall design idea;
• contrasting _ In this case, the overall emphasis of the interior will be shifted towards the bar counter, which, in turn, will stand out clearly against the background of the rest of the furniture group.

The first option will be more appropriate in a kitchen made of wood in a classic style. A contrasting bar counter is suitable for kitchens designed in a high-tech or avant-garde style.

Style

Classical. The stands are made of natural materials in combination with metal elements. The classic style is characterized by straight lines, smooth curves and a calm color palette.

Minimalism. Laconic and discreet design style, implying a minimum number of small details. Glass is often used as a material for making a bar counter. The color scheme is muted, without bright tones or accents.

Loft . This style involves the use of massive and bulky elements. The tabletop is made of natural wood, artificial or natural stone. The color palette is dominated by moderate and dark colors.

The Mediterranean style uses natural materials and precious woods. The surfaces are decorated with intricate carvings and high-quality decorative elements.

Useful material: Kitchen design with a bar counter - design tips and photo examples

Vanguard. A bright, rich color palette and straight lines are the distinctive features of a bar counter in the avant-garde style. It is allowed to use accent lighting to concentrate more attention on the bar area.

High tech. A modern style that uses a combination of metal and polymers. Calm color palette, with a predominance of white and gray tones. Does not imply the use of a large number of decorative elements.

Dimensions: standard and non-standard solutions

There are not many standard parameters. For individual structures, the normalized height indicators are levels of 110, 120, 125 and 130 cm. They are relevant for factory options. Typical parameters of products, in turn, include a 120-centimeter length, a height of 105 and a width of 55 cm. Unit racks are part of the furniture, their tops are usually no lower than 86 and no higher than 91 cm. The height indicator then includes the height of the base (10, 12 , 15 cm) and tabletop thickness (up to 4 cm). The difference between the general level and these values ​​corresponds to the height of the doors (facades). The length is selected maintaining an interval of at least 0.5-0.6 m per person. At the same time, an unsuccessfully placed long counter will ruin the interior of even a very large kitchen. The situation with the width of the tabletop is much simpler: it is related to ergonomics and the need to save space. Racks can also be combined with indicators corresponding to free-standing and furniture, and simple, but with several tabletops at different levels.

Height

The height of the tabletop is selected for the tallest member of the family. As for all the options, the lowest is a regular table that imitates a counter. Its height can be 75 cm. A cabinet dependent on kitchen furniture is most often at the level of 86-88 or 91 cm. Free-standing counters have much larger dimensions - 110, 120 or 130 cm. For people of normal height, standards of 110 or 120 are suitable. The structure of the bar element can also be multi-level. For example, a working part with a height of 86 cm may be connected to the set, and the bar itself, with a height of 110 cm, may be further away. The size of the counter is affected by the thickness of the tabletop. The usual options are no thicker than 4 cm, but 6- and 8-cm ones are often made from stone. The stand can be placed higher than other working surfaces. The height of the bar area in establishments is an individual issue and depends on the overall concept.

Length

At home, you should not install bulky structures, at least not unless necessary. The length is selected in accordance with the environment and the need for seating. 2-3 more places are added to the total number of residents. In the end, at least 60 cm is laid down for everyone. Appearance plays an important role in determining the ideal length. In a large kitchen, the counter may be too short and ridiculous, and in a small kitchen it may take up a lot of usable space. In total, there are 3 harmonious length options in combination with width. For a tabletop depth of 40 cm, you need a length of 120 cm, but for 60 cm, the ideal figure is 160 or 180 cm. Thus, the dimensions include a ratio of 1 to 2.5-3. If the table serves as a separator, then the length is selected based on the minimum required space for moving between zones.

Width

First of all, take into account the configuration of the element: one-sided or two-sided. In the second case, people sit opposite each other

The permissible minimum width is set at 30 cm. At the same time, the experience of previous years and comfort rules indicate an indicator of 40 cm. The minimum dimensions in any case apply to one-sided racks. It is better to make options for two sides at least 50 cm, and ideally 65 cm. In the latter case, convenience for two will be ensured, and at the same time there will be a place for a plate in the middle of the tabletop, a cup of tea or coffee, a laptop, and there will be an opportunity for serving dishes . At the same time, an indicator greater than 70 cm is considered wide and is suggested for kitchens in which there is no need to save space. In designs of original shape, the width should be selected taking into account the distance between the edges.

Accessories

To expand functionality, rotating bar counters can be equipped with additional accessories, for example, a “carousel” mechanism or a “magic corner”.

It helps solve the problem of “dead corners” by unfolding when the rack is extended. In addition to it, the rack can be equipped with additional shelves for storing various kitchen items.

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Installation Tips

The method of erecting supporting structures is determined. If brick is used, you need to completely lay the first row, then it will be easier to create even walls. If a metal frame is selected, it must be attached to the floor; if necessary, additional fastening to the wall is provided. Installing a folding bar counter does not require much experience. In this case, the tabletop is fixed to the wall with fasteners and brackets.

Sliding structures are often not connected to the set. The most difficult thing is to create a rotating stand, because in this case you need to accurately determine the location of the two elements to be connected. The distance between the kitchen and the partition should be small. The layout of the bar counter is drawn up in advance, taking into account the dimensions of the future structure and location in the room.

Lighting

The bar counter can be decorated with the following types of lamps:

• suspended - mounted directly above the tabletop, on a special strip or directly on the ceiling. They create a soft light that accentuates the tabletop. Can be equipped with relays to control brightness;
• point - mounted on any selected surface (ceiling, wall or tabletop). Create a directional beam of light to highlight details or directed illumination of the work area;
• spots - are halogen lamps that are installed on a special rotating mechanism. Their use allows you to direct light to the desired point at any time;
• LED - LED strips are used both to create full lighting and for decorative purposes. They can change shape to adapt to the surface. Modern models are equipped with a remote control that allows you to change the brightness and color of the lighting.

Table transformer

The main advantage of transforming tables is that they are most convenient to pull out and push apart. It is often used in the kitchen, instantly turning the work area into a mobile dining room. Once the meal is over, the table can be transformed into a more compact version or even “disguised” among the kitchen attributes.

For a small kitchen, miniature tables are provided that lack a supporting leg or are equipped with only one such part. It is advisable not to overload such structures.

A transforming table will come in handy in a student’s room, who can study in the reading area at any convenient time. Then, having folded the folding transformer and freed up space, start playing games and other active entertainment.