Designing a home bar is exciting — but getting the dimensions wrong is one of the fastest ways to end up with a bar that feels cramped, awkward, or uncomfortable to use.
The good news is that home bar sizing isn’t complicated once you know the measurements that actually matter.
This guide covers:
- The correct bar depth, height, and clearance
- How much space you really need behind the bar
- The equipment sizes that affect layout (especially fridges)
- Simple dimension rules that make a bar feel comfortable from day one
If you’re planning a home bar in the UK, this will save you a lot of trial and error.
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Quick Recommendations (UK)
If you just want safe, comfortable dimensions that work for most home bars, start here:
- Minimum bar depth: 500–600 mm
- Comfortable space behind bar: 900–1000 mm
- Typical bar height: 1000–1100 mm
- Best approach for beginners: Use a ready-made bar unit sized for under-counter fridges
- Most common mistake: Not leaving ventilation space for the fridge
If you’re still planning your build, you may also want to read:
These guides walk through the next decisions step-by-step.
Standard Home Bar Dimensions Explained
Bar Height
Most comfortable home bars fall between:
1000 mm and 1100 mm high
This height:
- Works with standard bar stools
- Feels natural for standing and serving
- Matches typical pub-style proportions
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These ensure your finished bar feels stable and comfortable.
Lower bars can feel more like kitchen counters, while taller bars quickly become uncomfortable.
Bar Depth
Depth is where many builds go wrong.
A practical range is:
500 mm to 600 mm
This allows space for:
- Drinks and glassware
- A drip tray or bar mat
- Comfortable arm resting
Shallower than 450 mm usually feels cramped.
Deeper than 650 mm can make serving awkward.
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Small items, but they strongly affect real-world usability.
Space Behind the Bar
To move comfortably, open a fridge door, and work naturally, aim for:
900 mm to 1000 mm clearance
Less than 800 mm quickly feels tight — especially once shelves or cupboards are added.
If you’re unsure about layout comfort, see the full guide on
how much space you need behind a home bar, which explains this in more detail.
Recommended Bar Units for Common Home Bar Sizes (UK)
Choosing the right bar unit early makes the whole build easier.
| Bar Unit Type | Best For | Typical Depth | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compact bar unit | Small rooms or corners | ~450–500 mm | Saves space while staying usable |
| Standard home bar | Most indoor bars | ~500–600 mm | Comfortable balance of space and usability |
| Modular/premium unit | Larger rooms or sheds | 600 mm+ | Extra storage and visual impact |
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Choose a model designed to fit an under-counter fridge.
Best Bar Fridge Sizes for These Dimensions
Fridges are one of the most important layout decisions.
| Fridge Type | Fits Under Bar? | Ventilation | Best Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compact drinks fridge | Usually yes | Rear/front | Small bars |
| Under-counter fridge | Yes | Front preferred | Most builds |
| Large drinks fridge | Sometimes | Needs airflow | Garages/sheds |
➡ Full guide here:
Best Bar Fridges for Home Bars (UK)
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These are popular, reliable beginner choices.
Tools You’ll Need for Accurate Measurements
Accurate measuring prevents expensive mistakes.
Essential tools
- Tape measure
- Spirit level
- Pencil & masking tape
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Cheap tools that save serious frustration later.
Common Home Bar Dimension Mistakes
1. Building Too Shallow
Leads to cluttered surfaces and uncomfortable use.
2. Not Leaving Fridge Ventilation Space
One of the most frequent and costly problems.
3. Ignoring Movement Space Behind the Bar
Creates a cramped, frustrating working area.
Avoiding just these three mistakes dramatically improves the final result.
What You’ll Need to Build a Comfortable Home Bar
At minimum:
- Bar unit or cabinet
Recommended bar units - Under-counter fridge
Best Bar Fridges (UK) - Shelving/storage
Wall bar shelves
If you’re unsure what to prioritise:
Next Steps
To continue planning your home bar:
Before buying anything, download:
Free Home Pub Build Checklist
This printable checklist prevents costly early mistakes.
Final Thoughts
Getting the dimensions right first makes every other decision easier.
A well-sized home bar feels:
- comfortable
- practical
- enjoyable to use
And that’s what turns a simple project into a space you’ll actually love spending time in.
Rob is a passionate home bar and pub shed enthusiast with a passion for craft beer. With hands-on experience in designing and building his own home bar, Rob shares his knowledge, tips, and inspiration to help fellow enthusiasts create their own perfect space. Alongside the world of home bars and pub sheds, Rob also explores the diverse and exciting realm of craft beer, providing honest reviews to help you discover your next favorite brew. Join Rob on a journey of flavor, design, and craftsmanship right here on Home Bar Kit.
How I wish I had run into your article a few months ago. I would have been of much more assistance to my friend, who wanted my suggestions before he built the bar in his house. Looking at the advice in your post and the standard dimensions that you let us in on, I see the reasons why his bar is now rarely used when we do meet up at his house.
My friend hasn’t talked about renovating the bar yet, but when he does, I now have the right information to support him with. Thank you, Rob.
Hi Oluseyi,
I hope your friend does decide to renovate his bar as they really are good entertaining spaces for family and friends. It is okay to go slightly smaller than the standard commercial measurements, just as long as you don’t take too much off.
I am pleased you found the article of use if your friend does to make changes, and if he has any questions then please ask as I will be happy to help.
Thanks
Rob