Setting up your bar: expert tips for an optimal space
Written by Quitterie Jobin on 08/07/2025

Introduction
When creating or renovating a bar, arranging the space is crucial to ensure the smooth operation of the establishment. Whether to optimize workflow, highlight your concept, or facilitate your team’s work, many factors need to be considered. As bar equipment experts at Barsolutions, we offer our best advice to design an optimal bar space.
Choosing an Appropriate Layout
The general layout of your bar plays a vital role in its functionality and atmosphere. Depending on the size and configuration of your space, different options are available for the arrangement of your bar.
The L-Shaped Bar
This classic configuration allows for a clear separation between work areas and customer zones. The L-shaped bar offers a larger work surface while visually defining the space. This facilitates circulation and organization for staff behind the counter.
The Island Bar
Ideal for medium-sized bars, the island bar placed in the center of the room creates a friendly and dynamic atmosphere. This layout enables direct interaction between bartender and customers. Practically, the central island makes it easier to supervise the entire space.
The U-Shaped Bar
This setup offers the advantage of a generous workspace while maintaining close proximity to customers. The U-shaped bar clearly defines preparation and service areas, encouraging exchanges.
Optimizing the Work Area
Beneath the polished appearance of a bar lies a careful organization of the workspace. At Barsolutions, we advise our clients to pay close attention to the organization of their bar.
Designing a Functional Work Surface
The work surface is the heart of a bar’s activity. It must be planned to facilitate the team’s movements and tasks. Providing enough space, an adequate work area, and well-thought-out storage are essential.
Defining Efficient Storage Zones
A bar requires numerous pieces of equipment and products. To optimize workflow, it is important to define strategic storage zones near preparation areas. At Barsolutions, we help our clients organize their space functionally.
Investing in Suitable Equipment
The choice of bar equipment is essential to ensure quality service. At Barsolutions, we offer a wide range of professional equipment designed to optimize the organization of your bar.
Paying Attention to Visual Aspects
Beyond practical considerations, the layout of a bar should also highlight the establishment’s identity and concept. Attention to aesthetics plays a key role in the customer experience.
Creating a Unique Atmosphere
The arrangement, materials, lighting, and decoration all contribute to the overall ambiance of the bar. At Barsolutions, we support our clients in designing spaces that reflect the image of their concept.
Optimizing Bar Visibility
The positioning and highlighting of the bar itself are crucial to attract customers’ attention. Strategic placement, appropriate lighting, and careful presentation help create a true "focal point" within the establishment.
Facilitating Circulation
Customer comfort and smooth circulation are also key elements of bar layout. Thoughtful arrangement of different zones (reception, bar, tables, etc.) helps avoid bottlenecks and ensures a pleasant experience.
Conclusion
The layout of a bar is a real challenge that requires considering many aspects. At Barsolutions, our expertise and deep knowledge of the HORECA sector allow us to assist our clients in designing optimal bar spaces, both practically and visually. Feel free to contact us for personalized advice and to carry out your project under the best conditions.