How to Build an Outdoor Patio Bar
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Check with local building code rules before you begin; there may be restrictions about how close to the house the bar can sit especially if it has an attached grill. Think about other considerations such as property lines. - 2
Figure out how many people you typically entertain, how you will use the space and how much your budget is. Consider the sight lines. Where will your eyes be drawn, how much privacy you want, and decide if you need a professional contractor, landscape architect or if you'll do-it-yourself. - 3
Draw up a plan. Decide if you are going to use water, gas and electricity. Will there be a sink? A mini refrigerator? A blender? A wine cooler? A beer tap? If your bar is connected to the house it is less expensive for utility hookups. If it is away from the house and freestanding, you will need the help of an electrician and perhaps some ground digging engineering. - 4
Select your materials. Look for products designed to withstand the location. Brick, stone, concrete or other substantial elements built on dirt will need a foundational pad. If all this is too much, a freestanding stainless steel unit on wheels runs about $1500 to $2500. See www.thefind.com/qq-freestanding-bar
A retro bamboo tiki bar is another option with freestanding units starting at around $600. See www.bambooandtikis.com/catalog/tiki-bar-products - 5
Bar seating can be at a half-wall platform off the side of the house or a built-in wall unit created from concrete, stucco or stone. Many folks are opting for a raised bar height of 44 to 48 inches, and you would need bar stools that are 34 to 36 inches high to match.
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