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Originally Published on February 6, 2019. Last Updated on March 13, 2024.

Outdoor bar and counter sets are fantastic home furniture choices. The elevated seating creates a dedicated space for any occasion, whether you’re sharing stories over drinks with friends or enjoying a lively family game night.

But purchasing a bar or counter set can be challenging. Various factors such as height, size, shape, material type, and more need consideration. To simplify the process, we've streamlined the essential questions you should consider into easy steps below.

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Step 1: Do You Need a Counter- or Bar-Height Set?
Step 2: Start With How Much Space You Have
Step 3: Decide on a Material Type
Step 4: Choose a Style That Fits Your Space
Step 5: Pick the Right Color
Step 6: Accessorize
FAQs

Step 1: Do You Need a Counter- or Bar-Height Set?

Counter- and bar-height sets are ideal if you have limited space or taller family members needing extra legroom.

A unique benefit of these sets is their space-saving design. With taller table bases, they occupy more vertical space, making them perfect for cozy balconies or narrow patios. Smaller sets are great options for such areas.

In addition, counter- and bar-height chairs are more suitable for taller individuals than standard dining chairs. These styles have higher seat heights, allowing for better legroom. Many designs also come with footrests for added comfort for shorter family members.

What makes bar, counter, and dining sets different?

Bar-height tables usually stand 40-42 inches high with seat heights for bar stools and chairs ranging from 28-33 inches.

Counter tables generally measure 34-36 inches in height, while counter-style seat heights are 24-27 inches high.

Dining tables stand only 28-30 inches high. Dining chair seat heights are 17-20 inches, and they are short enough not to require footrests.

Step 2: Start With How Much Space You Have

The size and shape of your outdoor area will determine the type of high-top dining set it can accommodate. At least three feet of clearance on all sides of a bar table is recommended to give guests adequate room to walk around and pull out their chairs.

To determine the necessary space for a set, measure the length and width of the room in feet and subtract six from both measurements. The resulting figures represent the maximum space available for a bar set.

For example, if you have a 10-by-12 deck, you have a 4-by-6 area to work with, perfect for the Yacht Club 7-Piece Farmhouse Trestle Dining Set.

Step 3: Decide on a Material Type

The best outdoor furniture is built from durable, weatherproof materials requiring minimal cleaning and maintenance. Depending on your budget and intended location for the bar set, there are multiple material options to consider.

Softwoods

Softwoods are less expensive and more readily available as these trees grow faster. However, they are more porous and less dense, making them prone to scratches, dents, pests, and water damage. Outdoor softwood furniture requires frequent refinishing to remain protected.

Hardwoods

Hardwoods like oak and teak are more durable for outdoor use than softwoods. However, they still need regular refinishing if left outside year-round. Hardwoods are denser and more resistant to weather, pests, moisture, and damage, but they are also more expensive as these trees grow more slowly.

Wicker

Wicker is a weaving technique that produces beautiful furniture. Natural wicker, made from bamboo, rattan, or reeds, is not ideal for outside use due to susceptibility to weather damage. However, synthetic wicker versions are available and can withstand harsher weather conditions. Keep in mind, cleaning wicker furniture can be time-consuming, and it is lightweight which can be a concern during strong winds.

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High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE)

HDPE is a durable plastic used in various outdoor items such as fencing, playground equipment, and furniture. It is highly resistant to stains, fading, and weather conditions, requiring minimal maintenance. Although HDPE furniture can be more expensive, its longevity and minimal maintenance make it a worthwhile investment.

Step 4: Choose a Style That Fits Your Space

Choose a bar set that aligns with your personal style, family needs, and the overall aesthetic of your outdoor space.

Table Shape

Round: Round bar tables make great focal points and offer flexible seating options. Chairs can be moved closer to fit more people snugly.

Square: Square tables can be placed in corners or against walls for extra room. They provide comfort and versatility for both small and larger groups.

Rectangle: Rectangular tables can also fit along walls and corners to save space. They are ideal for large gatherings, offering ample room for everyone and the meal.

Two-person: A two-person bar or counter set is perfect for intimate gatherings on balconies.

Four-person: Four-person sets, typically round or square, offer equidistant seating, promoting conversation.

Six-person: Suitable for casual and formal settings, six-person sets strike a balance between cozy breakfasts and spacious gatherings.

Eight-person: Great for large families or hosting enthusiasts, eight-person sets provide enough space for everyone to sit comfortably.

Pro tip: When mixing and matching chairs and tables, ensure 10-13 inches between the bar seat top and the table underside to avoid a snug fit and discomfort.

Step 5: Pick the Right Color

Let your deck setup inspire the color choice for your new bar set. As likely the space’s centerpiece, choose a set that harmonizes with the existing color scheme. Beige, green, and brown shades blend well with warm-toned decks near gardens or trees. For cooler-toned decks, neutral hues like white, grey, or black are excellent choices.

Step 6: Accessorize

Enhance your bar set with outdoor chair cushions and umbrellas. Opt for accessories made from durable outdoor performance fabrics that resist weather elements while providing comfort.

FAQs

What’s a bar table called?

A bar table is also known as a pub table, high table, or standing table.

How do I know what height bar stool to get?

To determine the appropriate height for a bar stool, measure from the table's underside to the floor and subtract 10 inches. This gives you the maximum seat height, ensuring enough legroom for guests.

Outdoor Bar Sets

Cocktail hour? Yes please! Enjoy spending time outdoors with an outdoor bar set. Ideal for poolside daiquiris or margaritas, balcony morning cappuccinos, or simply enjoying time outdoors. Outdoor bar sets, set at a slightly higher height than dining sets, offer better views and a cosmopolitan feel. If you haven’t considered an outdoor bar set, now’s the time!

Outdoor bar sets are great for small patios or balconies. Their taller height gives an illusion of space within the same area. Most outdoor bar tables seat two for intimate drinks or dining but are also available in larger sizes for up to six. You might picture a wrought iron table with chairs outside a Parisian café, but today’s outdoor bar sets are made from stronger, more beautiful, and easier-to-care-for materials. Cast aluminum bar sets have replaced wrought iron due to their durability, rust-proof quality, and lightweight nature. These aluminum sets often mimic the classic beauty of wrought iron with decorative metalwork and a dark powder coat.

Outdoor wicker furniture is another excellent option for outdoor entertaining. Made from synthetic polyethylene instead of natural rattan, which is prone to chipping and mildew, outdoor wicker is virtually weather-proof. Teak outdoor bar sets are also a beautiful, easy-to-maintain choice, popular for their casual, all-American style.

When selecting your outdoor bar set, consider the size and use of the bar along with the choice between bar chairs or bar stools. With so many options available, you’re sure to find the perfect set!

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