A small kitchen can be not only functional, but also stylish. Modern designers offer many optimization techniques small space. One of the non-standard style solutions for typical small-sized apartments is the use of a bar counter in the kitchen interior.

Interior features of a small kitchen with a bar counter

The main dilemma of planning a small-sized kitchen is the need to place all the necessary furniture items in a limited space, so the idea of ​​arranging a bar area in a cramped space at first glance seems very absurd. However, thanks to its high functionality, a small kitchen with a bar counter is gaining an increasing number of adherents.

Firstly, the compact design fits harmoniously into the design, giving an extraordinary look to the room. Secondly, a mini bar counter for the kitchen
can replace other pieces of furniture, for example, a bulky dining table or cutting surface. A bar counter, equipped with shelves or drawers, combines the functions of a countertop and a storage system.

A bar counter for a small kitchen can be used to zone the space, and the structure located along the wall visually expands the area of ​​the room.

Types of bar counters for a small kitchen - which one to choose

The classic bar counter is a tabletop located at a level of 110-115 mm from the floor and fixed on consoles. Additional element The mini bar consists of high stools or chairs. However, the classic design cannot always fit into the interior of a small kitchen with a bar counter, so modern designers offer several variations of minibars with more optimized sizes.

A small bar counter for the kitchen can be stationary, built-in or retractable. Before choosing a piece of furniture, you should familiarize yourself with all possible design solutions.

Bar counter combined with kitchen unit

Stationary stands for small spaces are part of kitchen set. Structurally, a standard interior detail is an extended fragment of a tabletop, one edge of which is fixed to a supporting pipe-support. The tabletop appendage can be located perpendicular to the surface of the kitchen unit or be a direct continuation of it.

The support pipe, the height of which does not exceed the height of the rack, is attached to the floor and plays the role of a leg. Vertical supports length from floor to ceiling have wider functionality; the design includes a top cover-visor. Holders for glasses and cups, fruit bowls and other elements for placing bar accessories are installed on high support pipes and a canopy lid.

Retractable transformable bar counters

Transformable bar counters are an excellent alternative to stationary models. The transformer is a surface equipped retractable mechanism. When folded, the minibar counter is hidden under the countertop of the kitchen unit or dining table, and does not take up kitchen space. If necessary, the surface extends, increasing the functional area of ​​the room. As a rule, roller mechanisms are used as a retraction system.

Based on the method of extension, transforming racks are divided into straight and angular models. Transformers with direct extension can be used if there is free space along the wall; when unfolded, the minibar tabletop acts as a continuation work surface. Corner transforming stands are appropriate when the drawers kitchen cabinet, in which the bar surface is hidden, are located at the end.

Built-in bar counters in a small kitchen

An interesting design solution for small kitchens with an adjacent balcony is the installation of a built-in bar counter in the area where the balcony block is located. But to implement the project, a redevelopment of the premises will be required. Balcony doors and the window is dismantled, the remaining section of the wall and the window sill are converted into a bar counter. This technique allows you to increase the kitchen space by adding additional space. Bar structure protrudes link between the kitchen and the balcony.

If there is no balcony in the kitchen, you can organize a bar area by increasing window sill. In this case, the bar counter will be adjacent to the kitchen window sill and part of the wall.

Features of the layout of a small kitchen with a bar counter

Designers recommend using a minibar counter for corner and U-shaped kitchen layouts. With an L-shaped arrangement of kitchen modules, the bar surface acts as a closing element, giving the room a more comfortable and attractive appearance. In small kitchens, an interior element replaces a bulky dining table.

With a U-shaped space layout, the bar counter is a harmonious continuation of the work surface. The best option for kitchens with furniture located along three walls, a level bar counter will be installed, which is a structure with an elongated tabletop, fixed close to the wall or directly to the work surface.

How the bar counter is arranged

The key elements of bar counters are the lower part and the tabletop. Design features main parts of the minibar affect not only appearance products, but also on functionality piece of furniture.

Bar base

The lower part of the rack serves as a support for the entire structure. Based on the design, the lower part can be open or enclosed. In the first case, the space under the bar surface remains completely open. Special consoles are used as supports.

In cabinet models, the base for the countertop is not a supporting pipe stand, but a kitchen cabinet. The frame support consists of a frame, façade and storage systems. Shelves or shelves are used as storage systems drawers. The lower part is in the form kitchen cabinet allows you not only to store kitchen utensils - cups, plates, glasses, textiles, etc., but also to place a built-in household appliances, for example, a hob.

Tabletops for bar counters - types of designs

Mini bar countertops vary in material and design. For the manufacture of bar surfaces they use natural wood, laminated chipboard, stainless steel, natural or fake diamond, acrylic and glass.

According to the type of construction, minibar stands are divided into two types:

• single-level;
• multi-level.

Single-level models are a lightweight design in the form of a high surface on bar consoles.

The design of multi-level products includes two tabletops, which are located at different levels. Traditionally, the lower surface serves as a table, and the higher surface acts as a bar counter. Multi-level design is ideal solution for families with small children, as it is difficult for small children to climb onto high bar stools.

Photos of the interiors of small kitchens with a breakfast bar

A small kitchen with a bar counter can become the highlight of the interior small apartment. Depending on the chosen configuration, a compact piece of furniture will increase the working surface area and divide the space into functional areas or free up a few square meters. The design of a small kitchen with a bar counter is original, stylish and functional!

If you have any questions or suggestions, you can contact us at e-mail: ls@site
P.S. We do not sell furniture, we only help you get acquainted with what is available and navigate your choice.

The bar counter is an element of furniture that has recently ceased to be associated with drinking establishments. Now this is what they call an elongated tabletop in kitchen interior, which can be attached to the wall, can be a continuation of the table, or can even stand alone. Nowadays, bar counters are found in many kitchens. This original element looks very interesting and gives the entire kitchen a modern, relaxed style. It is generally accepted that a bar counter is an interior item intended for large kitchens. But are there small kitchens with a breakfast bar? And how practical is this? The designers claim that this is possible. And with a reasonable approach, it’s also very convenient!

Which bar counter to choose?

So, if there is little space in your kitchen, but you have been dreaming for a long time, then you should not deny yourself this whim. It’s enough just to calculate well what exactly your stance should be. Of course, we will immediately abandon the classic version with cabinets below and above, many decorative elements and coasters. Such a stand will look bulky and take up quite a lot of space.

How to place a bar counter?

Since we have limited space, then we need to place the bar counter so that it does not clutter up the kitchen and is convenient to use. There are several options for this:

• You can use the bar counter to extend the work surface. The bar counter in the form of a small appendage is installed perpendicular to the kitchen furniture. If you have - and usually they are installed in small rooms - then from L-shaped it will become U-shaped. This will expand the space to work when preparing food.
• The bar counter can be placed by the window. Placed perpendicular to the window, it can easily replace your dining table, although with this arrangement it should not be very high. Or you can make a bar counter-window sill, then it will be located along the window, and sitting at it, you can enjoy the street landscape.
• If there is very little space, you can place a bar counter along the wall. Here it will look elegant and modern and will significantly save you space in the kitchen.
• The bar counter can also serve as a partition to separate zones, for example, to separate the kitchen from the living room in.

Original idea registration

What else do you need to consider?

A bar counter for a small kitchen should be small, neat and simple. So that it does not look boring, you can think of small accessories, elegant elements, on which the glasses will be placed.

You can also play up the bar counter area with lighting, which evening time it will be advantageous to distinguish it from general interior and give it a festive look. And, of course, you need to remember that the bar counter should not look like a foreign object in your kitchen - try to match its style and color scheme so that it harmonizes with the entire environment.

Simple and concise design

Decoration in wood

Video dessert

Photo

The bar counter is increasingly found in the design of small kitchens and an increasing number of people choose it as dining area For small kitchen. Previously, there was an opinion that the bar counter was an attribute of large, spacious kitchens. But this is a misconception. The correctly selected size, configuration and location of the bar counter in a small kitchen will help create not only a beautiful, but also functional interior, which is especially important for small rooms.

Bar counter in a small kitchen good decision, If the kitchen is combined with the living room . In this case, it performs two useful functions at once: it serves as a dining area and conditionally separates the kitchen area from the recreation area.

But even in a separate kitchen, a bar counter can be a completely justified solution. Thanks to its small width, it can replace a dining table, which is often difficult to place in a small kitchen.

READ ALSO: How to choose a table for a small kitchen

What is a bar counter?

The bar counter is a high horizontal surface that can be used as a work or dining table. The average height of the bar counter is 110-115 cm. The minimum acceptable width of the bar counter is 30 cm, but a width of 60-80 cm is considered comfortable.

According to the type of construction, bar counters are:

• open type
• closed type

An open bar counter is a tabletop on a chrome leg or other similar support. The main advantage of this type of bar counter is that you can easily put your feet under it, as well as sit on both sides of the counter. And when the bar counter is not in use, bar stools can be pushed in there, which is very important for a small kitchen.

A closed bar counter on one side is decorated with some material. It can be decorative rock or brick, plastic, wood or other material.

In general, a bar counter for a small kitchen should not be bulky or too pretentious. Preference should be given to laconic, elegant designs on one leg.

Design of a small kitchen with a bar counter

When considering the future design of a small kitchen with a bar counter, you should decide on its location. If the kitchen is combined with a living room, place the bar counter on the border of two zones - the kitchen and the living room.

If the area allows, the bar counter can be combined with work area and make a kitchen island.

In an isolated kitchen, the bar counter can be placed in different ways. How exactly to place a bar counter in a small kitchen depends on the layout of the kitchen and its size. Here are some options.

Along the windowsill

This arrangement is suitable for small kitchens with large window. If, in addition to everything else, the window also high window sill, then placing a bar counter along the window will not be difficult. The standard window sill is replaced with a wide window sill (tabletop) under which you can put your feet. Sitting at such a bar counter is a pleasure, because you can admire the view from the window while drinking tea or enjoying a cup of coffee. However, if the view from your window leaves much to be desired, you should consider placing the bar counter in a different location.

Along a free wall

For square and rectangular kitchens, placing a bar counter along a free wall, opposite the kitchen unit, is suitable. The advantage of this placement is that the bar counter can be made quite long (depending on the length of the wall), but the disadvantage is that when sitting at such a bar counter you will be forced to look at the wall. If you decide to place the bar counter this way, you should think about decorative design adjacent wall. Tiles or wallpaper with interesting patterns or designs will help offset this drawback.

As an extension of the work surface

More rare, but still possible method placing a bar counter in a small kitchen. Suitable for square kitchens and kitchens complex shape. While cooking, such a bar counter can be used as a work surface, which is a big plus.

As a separate element

In a small kitchen, placing a bar counter as a separate element is quite problematic. This can be done if the stand is not large.

Since the height of the bar counter is higher than standard kitchen table, you need to buy special high bar stools for it. These chairs are equipped with a footrest, which makes sitting at the bar comfortable. In addition, bar stools often serve as decoration not only for the bar counter, but also for the interior of the kitchen as a whole.

Let's consider design options modern kitchen, if 2 conditions are set: the kitchen itself is small, but it must have a bar counter.

Design of a small kitchen with a bar counter

It is necessary to design the kitchen space in such a way that it is comfortable, technologically advanced and beautiful, that is, it is decorated with taste, in any of the interior styles.

If you approach the problem constructively, even a small kitchen can successfully fit a compact bar counter. Moreover, a well-thought-out option with a stand can be just a godsend when space is at a premium.

2. The stand can be adjacent to the wall and located under hanging cabinets. This will make good use of the space. Under the cabinet, above the counter, you can place glass holders or narrow shelves. True, you will have to sit at such a counter facing the wall - but what to do? Sometimes it just doesn't work out any other way.

3. A very common option is to combine the bar counter with some surface. This is either a windowsill or a work surface on which the housewife cooks.

The option with a window sill can be an excellent substitute for a dining table, especially since in front of your eyes there will now be not a blank wall, but a lively view from the window.

Advice! It is useful to install local lighting above the bar counter, even with changing colors. This will enrich the interior and create a more interesting atmosphere in the evening kitchen.

Will a bar counter replace a dining table in a small kitchen, and which is better?

What is better is something everyone will decide for themselves. Let's discuss both possibilities.

1. Option one: There is a kitchen in the kitchen, but there is no bar counter. This is a common situation, the only difference is in the shape and size of the table, and even in its location.

The dining table is used for meals and as an auxiliary work surface when the hostess gets down to her daily chores.

2. Option two: There is no dining table in the kitchen, but there is a bar counter. The family eats and drinks behind her, and she also performs auxiliary functions.

As you can see, the purpose of the dining table and bar counter in a small kitchen is exactly the same. The question is which option is more convenient.

This is where additional factors come into play. If a bachelor or a family of two adults lives in the apartment, then the second option is more preferable, since the counter takes up less space than the dining table. She is a desirable attribute, and the owners are happy to sit behind her.

It’s another matter when there are children or older people in the family. Children, of course, will happily climb onto high bar stools, but they will also willingly fall off them.

People of the older generation, as a rule, do not welcome such innovations, especially since they don’t even want to try to climb onto high stools.

Here it would be convenient to make a two-level counter: on one side there would be a bar counter in pure form, tall, as it should be, and on the other, a dining table of normal height, perhaps a little narrower than we are used to.

This option would be ideal if it could be implemented. But this is very difficult to do in a small kitchen.

Is it possible to combine a bar counter with a dining table in the kitchen?

A bar counter located along a wall or window sill can be successfully interpreted as a dining table. This is an excellent option for a small kitchen, and in the case of a window sill, the surface becomes large, almost the same as a regular table. Access to it is one-way, but you quickly get used to this inconvenience.

If we are talking about combination, then most often the working surface smoothly transitions into the rack. At the same time, since it takes up space from wall to wall, you have to attach the rack in the form of the letters “G” or “P” in the same plane.

What size should the bar counter be?

A standard bar counter must be 100-130 cm high, 110 is considered optimal. Bar stools or also high ones are made under it, usually equipped with a height adjuster so that you can adjust the chair for yourself.

If the stand is two-level, then the second level, which serves as a dining table, is made 90 cm. The stand, which is a continuation of the working surface, has the same height. In this case, it comes with bar stools up to 60 cm.

The width of the tabletop at the counter should not be less than 30 cm; 50-60 cm is considered optimal. The length is calculated according to the standard: 60 cm is allotted per person.

A bar counter for a small kitchen can be more than just stylish element decor, but also do a good job by saving valuable square meters and significantly increasing the functionality of the room. It will be appropriate both in an isolated kitchen and in a studio apartment, where it will help to effectively zone the space while maintaining the visual unity of the living room and dining room.

This elegant bar counter fits well not only into the interior of the kitchen, but also into the interior of the living room

The interior with a bar counter organically fits into the dynamic rhythm of our lives, when everything is done quickly and swiftly, on the fly, on the go, on the run. An excellent option for young people with a busy work schedule and an active social life, who have no time to linger over long meals. Of course, there is clearly something fast food in this, but the bar counters that came to us from the West were originally borrowed from bars, cafes and restaurants. It is not surprising that they bring into the house an atmosphere of relaxedness, ease, solemnity and fun.

Will the bar counter become a burden for a small kitchen?

The classic bar counter is a high tabletop (110-115 cm), mounted on bar consoles and complemented by colorful high chairs or stools with a crossbar-footrest, and sometimes armrests. “Domesticated” bar classics are often mercilessly shortened for greater ease of use, but at the same time, of course, they lose a certain amount of their authentic uniqueness. Considering the more than modest spatial capabilities of a small-sized kitchen, the counter can be a logical continuation of the worktop. In this case, its height will be about 90 cm, which does not exceed the height of the working surface of the table. An excellent addition to such a stand would be chairs or stools of medium height (63-65 cm).

A two-level bar counter can serve as a work surface if necessary.

When used skillfully, a bar counter can perform the following functions:

• zone/unite space;
• carefully store large kitchen utensils, dishes and other household supplies;
• make the process of preparing and eating food comfortable and enjoyable.

Example of space zoning

An original designer bar counter can perform an aesthetic function, being the main element of the kitchen decor, its highlight. However, embodying their daring creative ideas in life, do not forget about practical side question.

The location of the bar counter should be carefully thought out. Before ordering it or making it yourself, you need to measure the space more than once with a tape measure, allowing for a free approach with different sides and plenty of space for family gatherings.

What to consider when developing a design project

When planning a bar counter in a small kitchen, consider:

• size and configuration of the room;
• general concept of the kitchen;
• dimensions (height, width);
• fastening method;
• filling;
• Availability additional functions(levels, backlight);
• color;
• material.

Deciding to get a bar counter for modern design small kitchen, be prepared to run around showrooms and shops in search of a suitable countertop, functional racks, shelves, plinths, legs, lighting, metal fittings and other accessories. When developing the concept of a future rack, you should take into account the general style decision kitchen interior, prevailing materials and colors in the decor.

Perhaps a bar counter with a glossy tabletop made of impact-resistant glass for a small kitchen will be the most advantageous option in terms of visually lightening the space. However, any other material that matches the furniture in texture and color will look good - wood, plastic, natural or artificial stone, metal, chipboard, glass, tile or combinations thereof. Today the most popular as facing material Corian is used for countertops - a composite resembling marble, but differing from the latter in much greater strength.

Due to the high plasticity of the material, a Corian tabletop can be given absolutely any shape - rectangular, round, curved, multifaceted. The appropriate shape will be determined by the room itself and the layout of the kitchen. There is no point in complicating the bar counter for a small kitchen with an excessive number of details and bends. The main thing is not to disrupt the ergonomics of the kitchen.

Traditional accommodation options

Classic options two:

• Perpendicular to the furniture set or window sill.
• Parallel to the main line of kitchen furniture or window sill.

In addition to these two main standard placement methods, when the rack is initially planned together with kitchen furniture, there are many different variations that directly depend on the purpose and method of use of the bar counter.

If a bar counter is needed as an additional work surface for preparing food, it is built in parallel or perpendicular to the tabletop, as if continuing it. It has also become common to place a bar counter parallel or perpendicular to the window sill. The additional area created by combining two surfaces is rarely empty for zealous housewives.

Bar counter design for a small kitchen

Purchasing a full-fledged bar counter for a small kitchen is a thankless task. A solid massive structure with numerous cabinets, accessories and all sorts of professional bells and whistles will “eat up” too much space, and will also visually make the space heavier. It is more rational, from an ergonomic point of view, to install a lightweight version in the form of an elegant mini-bar counter or, as it is sometimes called, a cocktail stand. With its modest dimensions and simple and laconic design, it is quite capable of replacing a traditional dining table, as well as becoming a cozy and desirable place for relaxation and spiritual communication in a pleasant company over a glass of wine or a cup of coffee. When there is very little space in the kitchen, a compact mini-rack can be placed along the wall.

The usual look of a bar counter sometimes gives way to bold and unusual design solutions

Design and placement options for mini-racks:

Combination with the dining table

There’s no place for a child to sit on a high bar stool, so if the family has small children or elderly people, but your soul still craves bar flair, it’s better to opt for combined version“2 in 1”, which harmoniously combines a bar counter with a small kitchen table for a small kitchen in one design. As a rule, this design involves two height levels - the lower level serves as a dining table, and the upper one, accordingly, serves as a bar counter.

In the interior of this small kitchen, the space under the bar counter is effectively used to place kitchen cabinets

In the interior of a studio apartment, a combined composition will help separate the kitchen from the living room. In this case, it is more logical to place the dining table in the kitchen area, and the bar counter on the side of the living room. This option for zoning a room can be very convenient and practical, but it is also important that it fits organically into the interior of the apartment, without compromising aesthetics.

Mistakes in designing a bar counter in a small kitchen

Practical idea use the bar counter as a dining table - ideal for a small family

A bar counter is not a piece of furniture at all, as many people mistakenly believe, but an independent structure that is designed and manufactured according to individual order. Having decided to get a bar counter for the modern design of a small kitchen, be prepared to run around showrooms and stores in search of a suitable countertop, functional counters, shelves, plinths, legs, lighting, metal fittings and other accessories. When developing the concept of a future counter, you should take into account the general style of the kitchen interior, the prevailing materials and colors in the decor.

Perhaps a bar counter with a glossy tabletop made of impact-resistant glass for a small kitchen will be the most advantageous option in terms of visually lightening the space. However, any other material that matches the furniture in texture and color will look good - wood, plastic, natural or artificial stone, metal, chipboard, glass, tile or combinations thereof. Today, the most popular cladding material for countertops is Corian, a composite resembling marble, but differing from the latter in significantly greater strength. Due to the high plasticity of the material, a Corian tabletop can be given absolutely any shape - rectangular, round, curved, multifaceted. The appropriate shape will be determined by the room itself and the layout of the kitchen. There is no point in complicating the bar counter for a small kitchen with an excessive number of details and bends. The main thing is not to disrupt the ergonomics of the kitchen.

Special attention It is worth giving vertical space above the bar counter, which can be supplemented with light shelves, original lighting, and accessories. A very picturesque addition to the interior of any kitchen will be added to the counter. function tree, on which glasses, wine glasses, straws, and fruits are conveniently placed, but in a small room it should not be too branchy.

In this spacious high-tech kitchen, the bar counter seamlessly connects with the work table

Increasingly, two-level bar counters are found in kitchens, performing several functions simultaneously.

Decorating the bar counter in the style of the entire kitchen helps create a unified harmonious composition

• Ill-thought-out sizes - a bar counter that is too small will not be able to perform the tasks assigned to it, one that is too large will clutter up the kitchen, and disproportionately selected bar stools will create discomfort during daily use. A massive freestanding bar counter will not make the kitchen space more functional. Therefore, an island model with large drawers for utensils is not the best option for small rooms. Eating up valuable square meters, it will be extremely impractical and inconvenient to use and, instead of pleasing the housewife and easing her household chores, it will be inconvenient for use as an additional work surface or dining table. It is more rational to combine the bar counter with a window sill, countertop, or build it into a furniture set or wall.

• Irregular shape: lovers of clear lines may quickly get bored with the stand round shape, and for those who are accustomed to smooth lines in the interior, a model with a strict and laconic form will not suit them.
• Materials that are contrasting in color and texture can look pretentious, out of context.
• Too dark a color scheme will visually reduce the space of a small room.
• Inconsistency with the interior style. For example, glass table top and chrome leg will fit perfectly into a high-tech interior, but will be absolutely out of place in kitchens in country, retro or loft style, and noble wooden models in white or blue color – The best decision for kitchens in Provence style.

Too many details is not always good:

A large number of“hung” dishes are not only beautiful, but also tiring. To keep the interior neat, you will have to wash it not only after festive events.

To fit everything you need for a good time in small kitchen, create comfortable conditions for cooking and family dinners, you need real design talent, out-of-the-box thinking, practical experience, time and desire to experiment. Much easier to use ready-made solutions, with the help of which it is easy to arrange even a non-standard space.