When it comes to designing a bar or restaurant, there is a delicate balance between perfection and mediocrity. Even the smallest design flaws can greatly affect the flow of service and the overall guest experience in a large space. To shed light on the key hallmarks of a well-designed bar, we spoke to designers and notable bar owners across the country. Here are some insights into what makes a bar truly exceptional.
Creating the Right Atmosphere
As soon as a guest enters a bar, the design sets the tone for their experience. According to Erick Castro, the owner of Polite Provisions and Raised By Wolves in San Diego, lighting and music play a crucial role in establishing the desired mood. The challenge lies in finding the right balance, where the music is present but not overpowering. Sound dampening and absorption techniques are often used to counter the hard surfaces commonly found in hospitality venues. Additionally, strategically placed speakers ensure a consistent decibel spread throughout the room.
The Power of Lighting
One of the most common design mistakes in bars is poor lighting. Lighting not only sets the ambiance but also affects the functionality of the space. Proper lighting should match the negative space of the ceiling and be adjustable with dimmer switches. John Harris, an owner of Trick Dog in San Francisco, emphasizes the importance of additional switches and circuitry to avoid ruining the lighting design. The ideal Kelvin rating for bar usage is around 2200.
Welcoming and Flexible Spaces
The physical design of a bar's entrance is crucial in creating a positive first impression. Stephani Robson, a restaurant design consultant and professor at Cornell University, highlights the importance of a well-designed entrance that immediately directs guests to the appropriate seating or service options. Flexibility within the space is also vital, as the room should feel intimate regardless of the number of guests present. Skillful balancing of energy centers and seating options creates a harmonious and captivating environment.
Concealing the Unseen
A bar is a complex space that often requires concealing various equipment and storage areas from guests. Cleaning supplies, point of sale machines, and refrigeration equipment need to be carefully hidden while remaining easily accessible to staff. John Bencich, an architect known for his work in Atlanta, emphasizes the importance of seamlessly integrating these elements into the design. Guests should be unaware of the behind-the-scenes activities, allowing them to focus on their drinks and the overall atmosphere.
Details that Matter
In a well-designed high-volume cocktail bar, every inch counts. Bartenders need quick access to ingredients and efficient lighting to ensure a smooth workflow. Joaquin Simo, the proprietor of Pouring Ribbons and Alchemy Consulting in New York City, closely observes movement efficiency when designing bars. On the guest side, seating angles and distances play a crucial role in facilitating conversations. Stephani Robson advises a 120° angle between pairs of lounge chairs for optimal socializing. Attention to these small details can make a significant difference in the overall guest experience.
Adapting to New Realities
While the fundamentals of bar design remain unchanged, the COVID-19 pandemic has introduced additional considerations. Outdoor seating has become a necessity, and safety measures such as host stands equipped with sanitizing stations are now common. Designers and bar owners are finding ways to integrate these new realities into their establishments, ensuring both safety and an exceptional experience for guests.
In the end, designing a great bar is a combination of numerous factors, measurements, and decisions made long before the guests arrive. By paying careful attention to every detail, from lighting and music to layout and functionality, designers and owners can create an atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression on every guest.
Chall Gray, the author of The Cocktail Bar: Notes for an Owner & Operator, brings his expertise as the co-owner of Little Jumbo in Asheville, NC, and a principal of the bar consulting firm Slings & Arrows. Through his extensive experience, he has mastered the art of designing exceptional bars that captivate patrons and foster unforgettable experiences.