Key points at a glance
- Counters for standing and for bar stools are usually 105 to 115 cm high; the working side is 85 to 90 cm.
- An overhang of 20 to 30 cm gives seated guests room for their knees.
- Plan an aisle of at least 90 cm behind the counter.
- A lowered section with knee clearance and a maximum height of 80 cm makes the counter accessible.
Guest side and work side
The guest side is the show side: counter top, front, footrest. Here, appearance and comfort count. The work side is a workstation like in the kitchen, with sink, refrigeration, shelves and connections.
The work surface is usually lower than the counter top. This keeps the work hidden from guests, and the team works at a normal height.
Standard dimensions at a glance
| Area | Guideline value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Bar for standing and bar stools | approx. 105 to 115 cm | to suit the seat height of the bar stools |
| Service and sales counter | approx. 90 to 110 cm | depending on whether guests stand at it or just collect |
| Work side | approx. 85 to 90 cm | like a work table in the kitchen |
| Counter top overhang | approx. 20 to 30 cm | knee room when guests are seated |
| Footrest | approx. 20 to 30 cm above the floor | depending on stool and bar height |
| Aisle behind the counter | at least 90 cm, ideally more | more if two people need to pass each other |
For wheelchair users, part of the counter should be lowered with knee clearance underneath. DIN 18040-1 specifies a maximum height of 80 cm for this.
What matters in the construction
Connections
Water, drainage and power for the sink, glasswasher and refrigeration should be fixed before the counter is fabricated. Adding lines later is costly.
Refrigeration and ventilation
Refrigeration units under the counter need air. Ventilation grilles in the plinth or front stop the units from overheating.
Cleaning
Smooth surfaces, rounded inside corners and a closed plinth make the counter easier to keep clean. Find out more in the guide Stainless steel finishes.
Stainless steel doesn’t have to look cold
The work side stays stainless steel; the guest side can match the room. This combines hygiene at the back with atmosphere at the front.
Questions about counters
How high is a bar counter normally?
Usually between 105 and 115 cm. What matters is that the bar stools suit it and there is knee room under the overhang.
How wide should the aisle behind the counter be?
At least 90 cm. If several people work at the same time or there are appliances with doors in front, allow more.
Can the counter be round?
Yes. We also bend and roll stainless steel into curves. This lets us create round bars and curved service counters.
Do you build counters made to measure?
Yes. We fabricate stainless steel counters, bar counters and service counters to your dimensions. Find out more under Counters and bars.
Sources and further information
- DIN 18040-1: Accessible building design, publicly accessible buildings
As of September 2026. This information does not replace individual advice.
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