Design
Research
When tackling something you've never done before, it's good to see how others have done it. The bar I tore down made it hideously clear there are height considerations. Turns out a bar should be 42" tall to accommodate 30" tall stools.
In fact, there are recommended depths from front to back, an optional "drink rail" where drinks are poured, a "drip lip" to keep spills in check, width considerations for seating, and the proper height for the eponymous bar which serves as a foot rest. Who knew?
Diagram
Visualizing the design ensures the dimensions are in proportion. Likewise, it helps you think through the subframe and other considerations to bring the project to life.
There would be appliances under the bar. Was concerned about airflow. So, I offset the studs on the front of the bar to leave one inch gap at the bottom.
Designs have to be flexible. I wanted an inset on the side of the bar which would mimic two on the front. Thankfully, before I got too far into construction, it became clear there wouldn't be enough room for the refrigerator if I kept that feature.
A Tip of the Hat
There was a particular source of inspiration for the cabinet design: the Brick Store Pub in Decatur, GA.
Many a pint has been hoisted in this classic establishment while absorbing every aspect of design as if by osmosis. Here, every detail is intentional yet appears as naturally as if ordained from the beginning of Time.
Great athletes are able to do the extraordinary with an ease that makes it look possible for us mere mortals. My humble pub will never achieve what the Brick Store has done, but to have been inspired by them is reward enough.
You could use a modeling program for the designs but there's something about having it on graph paper. Guess I'm more of a book than a Kindle guy. Much easier to carry around to wherever you're working as well.
