Bar Design Concepts

Interior Design is a profession that encompasses many different skills and disciplines. Interior Design for the home, office, retail and hospitality industry for example, all require a differing approach to the design and execution process.

Many of us spend much of our time (too much perhaps!) in bars and restaurants and they often form a hub around which our social lives revolve. But how many of us actually notice our surroundings? How was light used? What textures and materials were being implemented?When was the last time you walked into a bar or restaurant and thought

Wow this is awesome!!

The definition of good commercial interior design is to produce a functional and safe environment which is aesthetically attractive and that enhances the quality of life of its occupants.

As with any public spaces, there is always going to be a compromise between a designers vision and regulatory requirements in that designs must encourage environmental sustainability.

Most projects start with a systematic methodology in order to realise the clients requirements. According to SBID - The Society of British Interior Design, these are -

• Research and Analysis
• Design concept art (see images)
• Public Health and Safety check
• Colours, Material and Finishes
• Fixture and furniture design
• Project Management including budget and Time-frame
• Preparation of construction documents including plans, elevations and specifications etc.
• Preparation of any documents pertaining to the regulations of the space in questions such as building and fire regulations
• Coordination of sub-contractors and consultants
• Contract Administrations
• Implementation and reporting

In short then, as well as juggling all of these criteria, the Bar designer must come up with a design that is sensitive to the venue, and falls within the budget of the client. This is no mean feat.

If you look at the examples above, we can see how colour, texture and lighting come together to produce a space and ambience that one would feel comfortable and safe in, whilst being at harmony with the surrounding venue.

Although it is tempting to let ones imagination run wild in Bar Design, concessions to complex issues of indoor air pollution, space planning, special needs access, fire-safe fabrics and materials, relevant codes of practice and product durability must always be made.

So the next time you are in your favourite watering hole, take time to appreciate the sheer amount of work and planning that has gone into making your surroundings a pleasant place to be. Cheers!