Designing the Bar for Your Pub

The bar is the heartbeat of any pub. It is where customers gather, conversations flow, and memories are made. However, unbeknown to the customers, a lot of thought goes into the initial bar design and setup. A well-planned pub bar doesn’t just look good, it improves efficiency, boosts sales, and enhances the customer experience.

Bar Equipment to Include

A successful bar design starts with the right equipment. Standard essentials include:

• Beer taps & kegerators – the core of most pubs.
• Glassware storage – shelves or underbar racks for quick access.
• Refrigeration units – for bottled drinks, mixers, and garnishes.
• Ice machines & wells – to keep drinks cold and service smooth.
• Cocktail tools – blenders, shakers, and bar spoons.
• Glasswashers – to maintain a steady flow of clean glasses.

Working with experienced bar manufacturers ensures your setup is tailored to both your vision and your practical needs.

Impact on the Customer

The way your pub bar counter design looks and functions shapes the customer experience. A bar that feels approachable, organised, and well-lit encourages repeat orders. A cluttered, poorly thought-out bar area design creates frustration. Every decision in the commercial bar design impacts how customers interact with your pub.

Functionality and Reducing Wait Times

Bartenders should have everything they need within arm’s reach. Smart strategies include:

• Logical workflow: Glasses, ice, and mixers should all be nearby.
• Multiple service points: Wide counters and multiple POS stations prevent bottlenecks.
• Visibility: Customers should be able to spot staff easily to place orders.

The more functional the bar build, the shorter the wait times and the better the experience.

Brand Identity

Your bar is the stage for your brand. From rustic timber counters to sleek modern steel, every detail in your pub bar design tells a story. Working with professional contract bar designers ensures the style reflects your pub’s theme and atmosphere. Take a look at some other designs for inspiration.

Safety

A safe bar is a successful bar. Non-slip flooring, secure shelving, and reliable electrics are critical in any commercial bar design. Behind the bar, enough space should be left so bar staff do not bump into each other during busy service.

How to Set the Bar Up

When setting up your bar build, consider:

1. Layout – Plan where taps, sinks, and POS systems will go.
2. Storage – Shelving and under-counter space are vital.
3. Service zones – Dedicated areas for cocktails, beer, and glass cleaning reduce clashes.
4. Customer comfort – The counter should be the right height and welcoming

Point of Sale Systems

A modern POS system is just as important as your bar area design. The right setup speeds up service, tracks inventory, and integrates seamlessly with payments. Faster checkouts mean happier customers

Arranging Bottles

Bottle display plays both a functional and marketing role. Group spirits by type, place best-sellers within reach, and highlight premium bottles on higher shelves. A neat, attractive back bar supports your pub bar design and makes upselling easier.

Cleanliness

Hygiene is non-negotiable. A spotless bar ensures customers trust your establishment. Daily cleaning should cover:
• Counters, stools, and shelves
• Glassware and utensils
• Beer taps, soda guns, and ice machines
• Refrigerators and storage areas
A clean, well-kept bar is an essential part of professional commercial bar design.

Conclusion

Designing the bar for your pub is about balancing aesthetics, function, and flow. By working with skilled contract bar builders, you can create something that fits your brand and keeps customers coming back. From the counter to the back bar area design, every detail matters.

Atlas Contract Bars, Bespoke Bars for the Hospitality Industry 

Atlas Contract Bars provide bars for all kinds of pubs, restaurants, nightclubs, hotels and other industries. Our team are on hand to help you with the whole process. We support you with your design ideas and give a clear picture of the the final bar will look like before we begin construction.

Need to talk to someone about your ideas for a bar?