An outdoor bar can transform your backyard into a great entertaining space for friends and family. With an outdoor bar, you can create a focal point for gatherings while designing your outdoor living space however you want. From permanent structures to portable ones, we’ve compiled outdoor bar ideas for different styles, spaces, and budgets.
Understanding the Appeal of Outdoor Bars
Outdoor bars have become more popular with homeowners wanting to maximize their outdoor living space. They provide a dedicated area of the home for entertaining, blending some indoor comfort with the outdoors. Outdoor bars reduce foot traffic into the house while still allowing you to have a space for socializing and hosting guests on a nice evening.
Elements of an Outdoor Bar
Before exploring specific outdoor bar ideas, consider the components that make these spaces functional and inviting. When planning your outdoor bar, consider seating, storage, and lighting.
Bar Counter and Seating
The bar counter will likely be the centerpiece of your outdoor bar, serving as a preparation area and seating space. Since you’re building an outdoor bar, you’ll want to choose a durable and weather-resistant counter material, such as stone, concrete, or treated wood. For seating, you should also consider weather-resistant options while factoring in comfort and design.
Storage and Refrigeration
Storage spaces are great for outdoor bars. Having a place that’s easily accessible with your essentials can prevent trips to and from your home. You may want to invest in a small refrigerator or cooler to keep beverages and snacks chilled, especially on warmer evenings.
Lighting and Ambiance
Proper lighting creates the right atmosphere for your outdoor bar while brightening up your space when it gets dark outside. Overhead lighting is most commonly used, but you can also add task lighting near the bar counter for better visibility. For portable options, string lights, lanterns, or LED strip lights are a good option.
Permanent Outdoor Bar Structures
For homeowners looking to design a permanent bar structure, there are many construction options while considering durability and style. These options can be customized to fit your specific needs and design preferences.
Gazebo Bar
Gazebo bars combine the charm of a classic garden structure with the functionality of outdoor bars. Gazebos are freestanding, roof-covered spaces, usually with columns and high ceilings. These structures have ample space, allowing you to personalize the area as you wish with customized decoration, flooring, and paint colors.
Pergola Bar
Pergolas have a more open and airy feel compared to gazebos, usually blending with the outdoors. A pergola bar typically has four columns supporting an open-raftered roof. Many pergola designs now include built-in bar counters, making them a convenient option for outdoor entertaining.
Kitchen Window Bar
For a space- and money-saving solution that connects your indoor and outdoor areas, you can install a bar counter outside your kitchen window. This design lets you prepare snacks and drinks from your kitchen and hand them to guests outside. Choose a window that opens easily and is accessible from inside and outside before installing a weather-resistant countertop.
Portable and Space-Saving Bar Options
If you’re working with limited space or prefer flexibility in your outdoor setup, portable and space-saving bar options offer creative solutions for entertaining. Pushcarts, Murphy bars, and bar sheds are versatile options for your own convenience when designing your outdoor space.
Pushcart Bar
Pushcart bars provide great flexibility for outdoor entertaining. They can be easily moved around your yard or patio for different occasions. Options range from simple metal carts to custom designs with built-in storage and preparation surfaces. For a DIY project, consider repurposing furniture or building your own wooden pushcart to create a custom bar on wheels.
Murphy Bar
If you’re concerned about space when contemplating building an outdoor entertaining area, Murphy bars may be your best option. Once installed, these bars can be folded up against an exterior wall when not in use. This saves space on your patio or in your yard while still having a bar area when hosting guests.
Bar Shed
While less portable, bar sheds can be less expensive, and some homeowners may already have a shed in their backyard. If you have no use for an existing garden shed or want a DIY building project, you can transform or build a bar shed. One benefit of creating an outdoor bar from a shed is you can close it off as needed to protect your counter and supplies from poor weather conditions.
Customizing Your Outdoor Bar
Once you’ve decided on the basic structure for your outdoor bar, you get to personalize the space and choose the right design and layout to fit your style and needs. Choosing materials that can withstand weather and personalizing your space are both important considerations when building your outdoor bar.
Choosing the Right Materials
When looking for materials, consider factors such as weather resistance, maintenance requirements, and how well the materials coordinate with your existing outdoor decor. Popular options include:
- Composite materials for low-maintenance longevity
- Stainless steel for a sleek, contemporary feel
- Stone or concrete for durability and a modern design
- Treated wood for a natural, rustic look
Incorporating Themes and Decor
Incorporate themed decor elements, such as bar signs, artwork, and accessories, to create a cohesive and inviting atmosphere. Adding personality to your outdoor bar by choosing a theme or distinctive style can help your outdoor bar feel more complete. Some common options include:
- Coastal retreat with nautical touches and a blue-and-white color scheme
- Industrial styles with metal elements and Edison bulb lighting
- Rustic farmhouse with reclaimed wood and vintage signs
- Tropical tiki bar with bamboo accents and colorful decorations
Practical Considerations for Outdoor Bars
When building and designing an outdoor bar, you want a space that remains functional and attractive despite outdoor weather conditions. Weather-proofing and regular maintenance will help keep your outdoor space in top condition.
Weather-Proofing Your Bar
Outdoor bars are an investment, so choosing weather-resistant materials and incorporating features, such as a roof or awning, can shield your bar from outdoor elements while still being practical and comfortable. You can also purchase and use covers for your bar equipment and furniture when you’re not using the space. If you plan to install or use appliances in the bar area, be sure to select outdoor-rated appliances and extension cords if needed.
Maintenance and Upkeep
Regular maintenance will keep your outdoor bar safe and functional. Developing a routine for cleaning surfaces, checking for wear and tear, and addressing any issues will help your space stay clean. Store cushions and other fabric items indoors during harsh weather, and apply protective sealants to wood and stone surfaces as needed.
Improving Your Outdoor Bar
There are additional features that can bring your new outdoor bar to the next level. Entertainment features and outdoor kitchens will increase design and installation costs but can be a great addition to the space, especially if you plan to use your outdoor bar regularly.
Adding Entertainment Features
Consider integrating entertainment options into your outdoor bar area to create a more engaging and customized space. Some ideas include:
- Adding a fire pit or outdoor fireplace
- Including yard games like cornhole or horseshoes
- Installing an outdoor sound system for music
- Mounting a weatherproof TV for watching sports or movies
Integrating Outdoor Kitchens
For a complete outdoor entertaining setup, consider combining your bar with an outdoor kitchen. This allows you to prepare and serve both food and drinks in one convenient area. Incorporating features like a grill, pizza oven, or smoker creates a full-service outdoor space for yourself and visitors.
Outdoor Bar Accessories
Stocking your outdoor bar with the right tools and accessories will save you trips back and forth from the bar to your home. If you install storage cabinets in your outdoor bar, you’ll have a space to store many of these items, protecting them from the elements.
Barware and Tools
First, you’ll want to stock up your bar with the following items:
- Bar mats and small towels
- Bottle openers and corkscrews
- Cocktail shakers and strainers
- Cutting boards and knives
- Ice buckets and tongs
Outdoor-Friendly Glassware Options
Choose durable, shatter-resistant glassware for outdoor use. Options include:
- Acrylic tumblers and wine glasses
- Biodegradable disposable cups for large gatherings
- Silicone-wrapped glass bottles
- Stainless steel cups and mugs
DIY Outdoor Bar Projects
DIY outdoor bar projects can be simple and rewarding for homeowners looking to save money or add a personal touch. Building bar counters and refurbishing or upcycling furniture are great options to create an outdoor bar while saving money on new furniture and construction.
Building a Simple Bar Counter
You can create a basic outdoor bar by building a sturdy counter using weather-resistant materials like treated lumber or concrete blocks. Add a smooth, waterproof top surface and storage shelves or cabinets underneath. This project can be easily customized to fit your space and skill level.
Upcycling Furniture into Bar Elements
Old furniture that has seen better days can be repurposed into bar components. For example, with just a few adjustments and changes, you can transform an old dresser into a bar cabinet or use a vintage door as a bar top. By sanding, painting, and refinishing old furniture, you can personally design your outdoor bar space. Upcycled furniture adds character and reduces waste while also being more cost-effective.
Legal Considerations for Backyard Bars
Before setting up your outdoor bar, check local regulations and your homeowner’s association (HOA) regarding alcohol service and outdoor structures. Some areas may require permits for permanent bar installations or have restrictions on serving alcohol in residential settings.
Our Conclusion
An outdoor bar can transform your backyard into an entertaining space for hosting family and friends. Whether you opt for a permanent structure or prefer the flexibility of a portable bar, there are countless ways to create a customized, functional outdoor bar area. With the right planning and personal touches, your outdoor bar can become a centerpiece of your backyard.
