What is the Right Height for Your Outdoor Bar Table?

Written by

Olan Living

22 July 2024

•

3 min read

An outdoor bar table can transform your backyard or patio into a vibrant gathering spot, ideal for entertaining guests, sharing alfresco meals, or simply enjoying your morning coffee in the fresh air. However, selecting the right height for your outdoor bar table is crucial to creating a comfortable, functional, and stylish space. This article explores the considerations for choosing the best height for your outdoor bar table to ensure it meets your needs and complements your outdoor living area.

Standard Heights for Outdoor Bar Tables

Outdoor bar tables generally come in two standard heights: bar height and counter height. Each serves different purposes and sets a distinct ambiance for your outdoor space.

Bar Height: Typically, bar height tables stand about 102cm to 107cm tall. This height is suited for standing gatherings and socialising, allowing guests to easily converse with both standing and seated individuals. When paired with bar stools, which usually have a seat height of 71cm to 76cm, it offers a comfortable seating option without the need for hunching over the table.
Counter Height: Slightly shorter than bar height tables, counter height tables measure around 86cm to 91cm tall. These tables are designed to be used with counter stools, featuring a seat height of approximately 61cm to 66 cm. Counter height tables foster a more casual dining experience and can be a more comfortable option for longer seated gatherings.

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Considerations for Choosing the Right Height

When deciding on the perfect height for your outdoor bar table, consider the following factors:

Intended Use: Think about how you plan to use your outdoor bar table. If you are aiming for a casual, stand-up social area, a bar height table might be your best bet. For more seated, dining-style gatherings, a counter height table could be more appropriate.
Space and Scale: The size and layout of your outdoor area can influence the best table height. In smaller spaces, a sleek, bar height table can create the illusion of more space. Larger patios or decks might accommodate either height comfortably, depending on the surrounding furniture and features.
Comfort and Accessibility: Consider who will be using the table most often. If you have children or guests with mobility concerns, a counter height table may offer easier access and more comfort.
Style and Aesthetic: The height of your outdoor bar table can also affect the overall look and feel of your outdoor space. Bar height tables tend to lend a more traditional "bar" atmosphere, while counter height tables can blend seamlessly into a more relaxed, dining-focused outdoor area.

The best height for your outdoor bar table ultimately depends on your personal needs, the intended use, and the style of your outdoor living space. By carefully considering these factors, you can choose a table that not only enhances the functionality of your outdoor area but also contributes to its aesthetic appeal, making it a welcoming place for relaxation and entertainment.

Whether you opt for a bar height table to create a lively social hub or a counter height table for cozy meals under the stars, the right outdoor bar table can significantly elevate your outdoor living experience, making every moment spent outside even more enjoyable.