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Originally Published on February 6, 2019. Last Updated on March 13, 2024.
Outdoor bar and counter sets are fantastic home furniture choices—the elevated seating creates a sanctioned space for whatever the day has in store, whether you’re swapping stories over drinks with friends or diving into a lively family game night.
But buying a bar or counter set is easier said than done. There are many factors to consider, such as height differentiation, size and shape, material type, etc. So you don’t have to get bogged down in the details, we’ve sorted through the questions you should consider below to streamline your shopping process.
Jump to Section
Step 1: Do You Need a Counter- or Bar-Height Set?
Step 2: Start With How Much Space You Have
Step 3: Decide on a Material Type
Step 4: Choose a Style That Fits Your Space
Step 5: Pick the Right Color
Step 6: Accessorize
FAQs
If you have limited square footage or tall family members who need more legroom (or both) counter- and bar-height sets would benefit you.
A distinct advantage of an outdoor bar or counter set is the design’s space-optimizing nature. The table bases are taller, occupying more vertical space than horizontal. If you have a cozy balcony or a long yet narrow patio extending along the side of your home, smaller sets are terrific options.
Bar- and counter-height chairs are better fits for taller folks than standard dining chairs. These chair styles have extended seat heights, which lets family stretch their legs out at a comfortable angle instead of sitting with their knees above hip level. Plus, many styles are outfitted with footrests so shorter family members’ legs don’t dangle uncomfortably.
Bar-height tables usually stand 40–42 inches high. Seat heights for bar stools and chairs are 28–33 inches.
Counter tables generally measure 34–36 inches tall, and counter-style seat heights are 24–27 inches high.
Dining tables stand only 28–30 inches high. The seat height for dining chairs is 17–20 inches, and these styles are short enough that no footrests are needed.
The size and shape of your outdoor setting will decide the type of high-top dining set it can hold. At least three feet of clearance is recommended on all sides of a bar table to give guests enough room to walk around and pull out their chairs.
To find out how much space you need to accommodate one of these sets, determine the length and width of the room in feet and subtract six from both measurements. The resulting figures represent the maximum space available for a bar set.
For example: If you have a 10-by-12 deck space, you have a 4-by-6 area to work with—the perfect size for the Yacht Club 7-Piece Farmhouse Trestle Dining Set.
The best outdoor furniture is built from durable, weatherproof materials that require minimal cleaning and upkeep. Of course, depending on your budget and where you plan to place a bar set, there are multiple material options that can get the job done.
Softwoods are less expensive and more accessible than hardwoods because these tree types grow faster. They’re porous and less dense than hardwoods, making them susceptible to scratches, dents, pests, and water damage. Softwoods require frequent refinishing to stay protected in outdoor environments.
Hardwoods like oak and teak can handle the outdoors much better than softwoods. Still, it’s possible to encounter some issues with this material. Hardwoods need regular refinishing to stay protected if left outside all year.
Because hardwood trees grow more slowly, the materials are harder to come by, which increases their price points. However, the slow growth produces dense and durable wood that resists weather, pests, moisture, and damage.
Wicker is a weaving technique that produces lovely furniture, baskets, and other decor. Natural wicker furniture is woven from bamboo, rattan, or reeds, and these delicate materials don’t fare well outside. Rain, moisture, and other elements can easily damage natural wicker, but you can find synthetic versions that can handle harsher weather.
However, cleaning all those nooks and crannies is a long, painstaking process. Plus, wicker furniture is lightweight—whether synthetic or natural. Moving it is easy, but a strong gust of wind can topple a tall bar set over.
HDPE is a durable plastic used to craft a variety of outdoor items like fencing, playground equipment, and furniture. It’s resilient against stains, fading, and all types of weather and needs hardly any maintenance to stay beautiful.
Though it has a higher price, well-designed furniture constructed from HDPE will serve your family for years. You won’t have to spend money on future repairs or replacements, and you can give all the time you save on upkeep to your family. It’s a long-term investment that pays for itself.
To create the dining experience you want, select a bar set that fits your personal tastes, your family’s needs, and the style of your space.
Round: Our eyes are naturally drawn to circular objects, so round bar tables are great focal points. Plus, their shape allows more lenience with seating space. You can move the chairs together to accommodate one (or two) more—it will just be a snug fit.
Square: Square tables can be pushed into corners and walls when you need extra room. They’re also versatile in their seating capacity as they’ll provide closeness and comfort when seating a small number of people, or larger styles can offer ample room for a crowd.
Rectangle: Like square tables, rectangular shapes fit along walls and in corners, which saves space. Plus, their shape is more conducive to large gatherings. For example, an eight-person rectangular table can accommodate everyone as well as the meal while taking up less space than a square table that seats eight.
Two-person: A bar or counter set for two is just what’s needed for an intimate evening on a cozy balcony.
Four-person: Since tables for four are typically round or square, everyone is positioned equidistantly, allowing them to be part of the conversation.
Six-person: A six-seater bar or counter set is suitable for both casual and formal settings. It’s not too large to make quiet breakfasts seem overwhelming, and not too small to make weekend gatherings feel cramped.
Eight-person: Ideal for large families or entertaining enthusiasts, expansive eight-person bar and counter sets offer enough space for everyone to come together comfortably.
Pro tip: If you plan on mixing and matching chairs and tables instead of choosing a preconfigured set, allow for 10 to 13 inches between the top of the bar seat and the underside of the table. This prevents the space from becoming too snug—which would otherwise put too much pressure on family members’ knees and thighs.
Let your current deck setup be the driving inspiration for the color of your new bar set. Since it will likely be the space’s centerpiece, shop for something that blends with the existing color scheme.
Beige, green, and brown shades blend well with warm-toned decks surrounded by lush gardens or trees. If your deck sports cool colors, neutral hues like white, grey, or black are excellent choices.
Elevate the look of your already lofty bar set with outdoor chair cushions and an umbrella. When shopping for these accessories, choose items made with durable outdoor performance fabrics that repel the elements but excel in comfort.
A bar table is also called a pub table, high table, or standing table.
To figure out what height your bar stool needs to be, measure from the underside of the table to the floor, then subtract 10 inches. This will give you the maximum seat height that still allows enough legroom for guests.
Originally Published on January 31, 2018. Last Updated on March 18, 2024.
Mimosa brunches, after-dinner decafs, and cocktail hour: Some things are better outside. Bar and counter dining sets are popular for these kinds of casual affairs. They’re higher than standard dining furniture, so guests can comfortably sit or stand as they snack, socialize, or drink.
But how do you know which set will suit you best? This step-by-step buying guide is here to help you answer that question. So, pull up a seat, and let’s dig in.
Jump to Section
Step 1: Are Bar or Counter Sets Right for You?
Step 2: Determine Your Available Space
Step 3: Pick Your Furniture Materials
Step 4: Define Your Style
Step 5: Choose the Best Color
Step 6: Accessorize
A bar or counter set might be an excellent fit for you if you have taller family members to seat, limited space, or you want an unobstructed view from your balcony. These setups are also ideal enhancements for outdoor kitchens and rooftop bars as they align with countertop and pub ledge heights.
Bar-height furniture—also called pub-height—generally stands between 40 and 42 inches tall. That’s about six inches higher than counter-height pieces, which average 34–36 inches. Dining-height tables and chairs are typically 17–30 inches, making them 4–12 inches shorter than the two taller styles.
Pros:
Ideal for taller folks needing more legroom
Unobstructed views over railings
Takes up less floor space
Higher tabletops draw the eye up
Cons
Less practical for kids and shorter individuals
Hard to move chairs if feet don’t reach the ground
Not wheelchair accessible
If you’re confident that a counter or bar set is the best choice, make sure you have the room to fit one before purchasing. Grab a tape measure, some painter’s tape, paper, and a pencil: Let’s measure.
Use tape to mark how much free space you have for a dining set. Note it—this will be extremely helpful throughout the shopping process.
Your guests need space to move freely between chairs and around the table.
If you don’t opt for all-weather materials, do you have enough space to store furniture during winter?
Bar sets are available in a wide variety of materials. When it comes to choosing the right materials for your bar sets, you’ll want to take several factors into account:
How will your bar set handle harsh weather?
Will your bar set be easy to care for?
How will your set look over time?
Can the materials resist stains and spills?
Will the furniture feel good to sit in?
Is it easy to move yet heavy enough to resist wind?
: How much value for money will you get from the bar set?
Some bar sets are made of pine or other softwoods, as the material is abundant and affordable.
Pros:
Inexpensive
Easily accessible material
Cons:
Prone to scratches and dents
Susceptible to pests and water damage
Requires regular maintenance
Hardwoods are a better choice than softwoods for a well-crafted, lasting bar set, but they are not without issues.
Pros:
Highly resilient and durable
Goto e-lansure to know more.
Resists weather and outdoor elements
Resists dents and scratches
Cons:
Requires regular refinishing
Heft makes moving difficult
Higher price point
Wicker is a weaving technique that can involve a variety of natural or synthetic materials, such as bamboo or high-density polyethylene (HDPE).
Pros:
Lightweight and easy to move
Cons:
Prone to damage without constant care
Vulnerable to wind gusts
Difficult to clean and maintain
A popular choice for its durability and lighter weight, aluminum is often used to build bar sets.
Pros:
Durable and low-maintenance
Lightweight and easy to move
Resistant to water, rust, and pests
Cons:
Vulnerable to wind gusts
Can overheat in direct sun
HDPE is a synthetic material used for building a variety of outdoor items such as fencing, patio furniture, and playground equipment.
Pros
Easy to clean
Watertight and weatherproof
Infinitely recyclable and reusable
Cons:
Higher price point
Heft hinders movement for larger pieces
Let your tastes and current needs determine the look you want for your bar or counter set. Buying one can feel like a big decision, but the considerations below should help you understand what to look for.
The dining table is a true workhorse, serving as a space’s focal point and the life of any party.
Points to Consider
Counter tables are lower, so they work well for casual and formal dining. Higher bar tables allow guests to sit or stand as they eat—a great option for informal meals.
Find a table that can accommodate your headcount and add 1–2 extra place settings.
Make sure the area has enough square footage to fit the table size and number of chairs you want (plus additional clearance on all sides).
If you want to block the sun or string up overhead bistro lights, look for a table with an umbrella hole.
Table shape: Certain table shapes are better fits for different situations.
A good fit for most layouts, from large dinner parties to work-from-home spaces. Their long, linear designs complement formal occasions but fit right in with casual affairs.
This table shape offers balance and symmetry, allowing guests to sit equidistant and be part of the conversation. It fits nicely in smaller spaces and can be pushed into corners when more room is needed.
Versatile and symmetrical, circular tables can transition from dinner parties to poker nights. The cornerless edges allow room for extra seats and are safer for small kids.
Great seating is key to successful entertaining. All in all, the right bar and counter chairs will be comfortable, stylish, and space-conscious.
Points to Consider
Chairs with contoured seats, armrests, and reclined backs offer the most relaxation.
Well-made chairs that weather the elements and require minimal maintenance look better than the alternative.
Make sure the seats sit at the proper height so knees don’t bump up against the table’s underside.
Consider how much space you will need for people to move around and between chairs easily, and pick the right number and size of chairs accordingly.
Bar and counter seats often have the same features as dining chairs, such as folding or swivel capabilities. However, taller seats are often outfitted with footrests. And while they do exist, bar- or counter-height dining benches are uncommon.
Browse the benefits of various counter and bar seat designs.
Compact design is ideal for sliding beneath tables and ledges, yet lacks back support.
Offers a more formal look and arm support but takes up more space than armless chairs and stools.
Streamlined, flexible designs that offer back support and easy access.
These take up more room, but the 360-degree seat rotation allows freedom of movement with little effort.
Ideal for cozy balconies or poolside relaxation, these sets fit couples and small families. The tables are typically square or round and are usually more budget-friendly than medium or large sets.
2-seat sets have 3 pieces
4-seat sets have 5 pieces
These sets offer more seating than small sets but won’t overwhelm your dining space. Their size is just right for formal occasions or casual get-togethers, with table shapes ranging from round to rectangle. Plus, they fit nicely on mid-sized terraces or as part of a
multi-space setup
on a sprawling deck.
4-seat sets have 5 pieces
6-seat sets have 7 pieces
Large bar and counter sets are perfect for lavish parties as they can accommodate more guests. The tables are typically rectangular or square-shaped, and they do their best work on spacious patios and roomy decks. However, their size would overwhelm medium and small rooms.
8-seat sets have 9 pieces
10-seat sets have 11 pieces
Now it’s time to pick your preferred bar or counter set color.
Unsure of your preference? Ask yourself these questions, and let the answers unlock your true colors.
What’s my home’s exterior color scheme?
Do I want exact shade matches or coordinating colors?
How will my outdoor environment affect the colors?
Keep your look open and airy with light and bright neutrals.
Sleek, chic, and confident, grey and black are versatile hues that are easy to design around.
These elemental tones look stunning without detracting from natural surroundings.
Inspired by nature’s lushest landscapes, a dark, verdant green shines in outdoor settings.
For a pop of personality, try a set in vibrant shades of yellow, red, lime green, orange, or blue.
You’ve chosen the perfect bar set for your outdoor space, but you need the right cushions and umbrella for maximum comfort. Our cushions and patio umbrellas are made of all-weather performance fabric and engineered for all four seasons. And with our wide variety of colors and patterns, you’re sure to find just what you’re looking for.
Our outdoor-friendly accessories are UV- and fade-resistant for enduring vibrancy. And after a passing rainstorm, their water repellency means they’ll be ready to use again in no time. Plus, we offer cushions in multiple sizes and shapes and umbrellas in dining and bar heights.
Experience all-weather durability, aesthetic appeal, and minimal cleanup with POLYWOOD bar and counter sets. Explore our alfresco styles in our comparison guide to find the perfect fit for your family.
Are you interested in learning more about outdoor bar sets manufacturer? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!