Outdoor bar height tables have gradually become more popular due to their versatility and ability to enhance living spaces. But with so many materials, sizes, and styles, how to choose the right outdoor table for your home?
When choosing an outdoor bar height table, you need to consider several factors, such as the materials used, dimensions, long span, and your budget. This article will help you find the perfect outdoor table for your own. Keep reading for smart choices!
Outdoor Bar Height Tables: The Standard Height Guide
An outdoor bar height table typically measures around 40 — 42 inches tall, made to go with bar stools/chairs that have seats about 27 — 33 inches high. This gives you the perfect 10 — 12 inches between the table and seat so you're comfortable.
Bar height outdoor table and chairs size guide
Credit: Flowyline Design
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What's great about outdoor bar height tables is how flexible they are. You can use them for casual meals, when you have friends over, or even as a workspace for outdoor projects.
Being taller also makes small spaces look bigger and gives you a better view of your outdoor area.
Sizing Outdoor Bar Height Table for Comfort Seating
Selecting the right size for your outdoor bar table is key to ensuring comfort at every gathering. You can use the following guidelines to help you choose the ideal outdoor bar table dimensions for your space.
1. Space Planning
Before you go shopping, don’t forget to measure your space carefully. You'll want at least 36 inches of room around the table so people can move around and get to their stools easily. If you have a narrow space like a balcony, rectangular tables work better because you can put them against walls or railings.
2. How Many People Will Seat Around Outdoor Bar Height Tables?
| Table Size Shape | Comfortable Seating | Ideal Space Required |
|---|---|---|
| 36" Round | 2 — 3 people | 8' x 8' area |
| 42" Round | 3 — 4 people | 9' x 9' area |
| 48" Round | 4 — 5 people | 10' x 10' area |
| 60" Rectangular | 4 — 6 people | 12' x 8' area |
| 72" Rectangular | 6 — 8 people | 14' x 8' area |
3. Ideal Weight for Outdoor Bar Height Tables
Most good bar height table legs plus table top can hold 150 — 300 pounds when the weight is spread out evenly. We should think about both what the table can handle and how you plan to use it. For example, tables for eating don't need to be as strong as those you'll use for work projects.
8 Main Types of Outdoor Bar Height Tables that You Should Know
To choose a suitable outdoor bar height table, it’s essential to understand the differences between these types of tables. Here is a classification of popular types of outdoor bar tables, categorized by material, style, and design.
1. Materials Used
There are 4 main types of materials used in outdoor bar tables: wood, metal, wicker/rattan, and composite material.
Wood
Using wooden materials to craft an outdoor furniture high-top table is a classic option that brings charm and homeliness to the area.
They have access to several types of wood, such as eucalyptus, cedar, and teak. Moreover, outdoor bar tables have the option to get matched with any decoration by painting or staining.
Metal
Bar tables made of metal are your best bet for outdoor furniture that can handle weather and last for years. You've got several options: wrought iron, aluminum, and steel all work differently.
For the ultimate outdoor setup, we recommend pairing metal bar table legs with a polyurethane-finished wooden top. The polyurethane coating protects the wood from moisture, scratches, water, and UV damage, keeping the surface beautiful over time.
Meanwhile, the metal table legs provide stability, good load-bearing capacity, and long life, while being easy to clean and requiring little maintenance.
An outdoor bar height table with metal legs has better durability
Credit: Flowyline Design
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Wicker/rattan
Wicker outdoor bar tables are light and portable, which makes them perfect for smaller areas or patios. They can be chosen from several different colors and design options, making these a versatile solution for any exterior location.
Composite materials
A popular choice among many homeowners, composite outdoor bar tables offer exceptional durability with minimal maintenance. With excellent weather resistance, a wide range of colors, and versatile designs, they are a flexible solution that suits various outdoor styles.
2. Styles and Designs
Besides, outdoor bar height tables are also classified by design styles. There are 4 main styles: traditional, contemporary, rustic, and industrial, to fulfill the diverse aesthetic needs of consumers.
- Traditional: A traditional outdoor bar table can add charm and character to your living space. It features classic designs and ornate details, making it timeless and elegant.
- Contemporary: Outdoor bar height tables with a modern style have minimalist designs and clean lines that provide a sophisticated and chic appearance.
- Industrial: The strong and edgy design of the industrial bar height outdoor table and chairs, which uses rough textures and raw materials, gives the outdoor space an attractive urban touch.
-
Rustic: If you want to create a warm and cozy atmosphere, a rustic patio bar height table is for you. With a simple design, natural materials alongside earthy tone color schemes, the rustic bar table style is suitable for most outdoor spaces.
Rustic bar height table with simple design and earthy tone
Credit: Flowyline Design
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Read more: What Is Industrial Style Furniture? Key Design Elements DIY Tips
5 Key Factors to Choose Your Optimal Outdoor Bar Height Tables
Choosing the right outdoor bar height table for yourself is not an easy task, especially since there are many types of outdoor tables. Let’s break down the essentials you need to know.
1. Size and Dimension
Size and dimension are the most important factors that you need to consider when choosing outdoor bar height tables. The area of placement is something that you should consider, too. A proportional table that provides enough seats for its designated purpose is necessary.
2. Durability and Weather Resistance
The next factor you need to consider when choosing an outdoor bar table is its ability to withstand the weather.
Since the table will be used mainly outdoors, it needs to be durable and able to withstand weather elements such as rain, sun, humidity, strong winds, or snow. Thus, metal may be a great option, in addition to plastic and wicker.
3. Maintenance Requirements
Maintenance is required to keep outdoor bar height tables looking their best. You should also choose the table that is easy to clean and maintain to help save time and money in the long term.
Materials like metal or composite require less maintenance compared to natural wood.
However, wood offers a more captivating aesthetic. A great solution is to use metal legs combined with a wooden tabletop to minimize maintenance needs while retaining its beauty.
Proper maintenance of a bar height table will help preserve its flawless appearance
Credit: Flowyline Design
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4. Comfort and Ergonomics
When choosing an outdoor bar table, users' comfort is just as important as durability. The height of the table and chairs should be carefully considered to suit most users, avoiding setups that are too high or too low.
The outdoor bar height must meet your intended use, and the chairs or stools should provide adequate support. A standard bar table is typically around 40 – 42 inches tall, paired with bar stools or chairs that are 27 – 33 inches high.
5. Budget Considerations
Currently, there is a wide range of prices for outdoor bar height tables, from budget-friendly options to high-end designer pieces. Before making a purchase, it’s important to consider how much you’re willing to invest.
Read more: 9 Styles of Dining Tables: From Traditional to Contemporary
Where to Enjoy Outdoor Bar Height Tables: 4 Popular Uses
Your living space will be more vibrant when you know how to place a bar-height outdoor table in the right place. Below are 4 popular ways to help you enjoy fully the utility and beauty of this table type.
- Patios and decks: Patios and decks are ideal places for using outdoor furniture, such as high-top tables. You can use a bar-height outdoor patio table for relaxing, eating, or hosting visitors.
- Poolside areas: Adding outdoor bar height tables to poolside regions is a fantastic way to enhance the space. They offer a spot to unwind and savor a beverage or treat.
- Outdoor dining spaces: Why don’t you decorate your outdoor dining space with a bar-height table? A round outdoor dining table will create a casual and relaxing atmosphere for your family and friends.
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Bar and entertainment areas: Ideal outdoor bar tables are taller than counter height outdoor tables. Thus, they’re perfect for bars and entertainment spaces. Bar height outdoor tables can provide a place where individuals can gather and spend time together.
An outdoor bar height table is the ideal choice to enjoy an outdoor dinner with family and friends.
Credit: Flowyline Design
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Read more: Painting Outdoor Metal Furniture: Expert Ideas Tricks
4 Tips for Styling and Decorating Outdoor Bar Height Tables
If you’ve chosen the right outdoor bar table, here are some helpful tips to arrange it and upgrade your living space.
1. Choosing Suitable Bar Stools
When you pick bar stools for an outdoor bar table, you should prioritize options that provide comfort and go well with the table’s style. Pay close attention to the stool height in relation to the table to ensure proper seating posture and avoid discomfort.
Besides, you also need to consider stools with backrests, cushioned seats, or built-in footrests to enhance comfort, making gatherings more enjoyable.
2. Adding Table Centerpieces
Your outdoor bar height tables can have a sophisticated focal point with a few decorative items. To make the table lively and more welcoming, you can add a vase of fresh flowers, some scented candles, or personalized decor pieces.
The secret is to keep things in balance. Decorate just enough to make the table look nice, but leave enough room for food and beverages to make it functional.
3. Incorporating Lighting Elements
Lighting plays a crucial role in creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for your outdoor bar area. You can adorn the area around or above the table with string lights, lanterns, or small LED lights.
Particularly in the evening, soft, ambient lighting not only improves the atmosphere but also makes the area cozier and more pleasurable.
4. Considering Shade Options
Outdoor bar height tables should not be placed in direct sunlight for long periods of time, as this can compromise the materials' longevity and user comfort.
Therefore, consider including shade-producing elements like pergolas, awnings, and outdoor umbrellas. These options will protect your furniture from weather damage and create a more pleasant and relaxing environment.
You should provide shade to preserve the outdoor bar height tables better
Photo: Flowyline Design
Maintenance and Care for Outdoor Bar Height Tables
Don’t scroll past this if you don’t want to miss the secret to keeping your outdoor bar table looking its best. Here’s what you need to know to protect and maintain your outdoor table.
1. Cleaning and Washing
Outdoor bar tables require regular cleaning and washing to extend their lifespan and preserve their appearance. You should clean your table regularly with soap and water or a mild detergent.
To guarantee maximum durability and enduring beauty, it's also important to select the right cleaning technique based on the type of table.
2. Protection from the Elements
If you want to ensure long-lasting durability, you need to protect outdoor bar height tables from weather conditions like sunlight, rain, and snow. When not in use, cover the table and store it in a dry location.
Additionally, you can lessen UV exposure that results in fading and surface cracks by using umbrellas, awnings, or pergolas.
3. Repairing and Refinishing
Over time, outdoor bar height tables may need repairs or refinishing to maintain their appearance.
Tighten screws frequently, replace rusty ones, and apply anti-rust paint to metal frames that have been scratched. You should choose repair and refinishing methods based on the table’s material.
Proper maintenance will help your table retain its beauty for a long time
Photo: Flowyline Design
Read more: How to Protect Outdoor Metal Furniture From Outside Factors - 5 Tips
Where Can I Choose Outdoor Bar Height Table Legs For My House?
Outdoor bar height tables have become a popular choice for patios, gardens, or balconies thanks to their versatility. They’re perfect for a variety of activities, from casual conversations and dining to board games, model building, or simply enjoying a good book outdoors.
Many stores offer a unique design, but if you’re looking for a reliable place to find high-quality pieces for your outdoor space, Flowyline Design is a destination worth exploring. All of our products come with pre-drilled mounting plates for easy installation.
Flowyline Design offers many unique and creative table leg designs
Credit: Flowyline Design
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Besides, Flowyline’s outdoor table legs also have adjustable levelers for users to adjust to suit their needs flexibly. This small but practical detail ensures stability and keeps your outdoor bar height tables balanced in any outdoor setting.
FAQs
1. How Tall Should an Outdoor Bar Table Be?
An outdoor bar table is typically about 40 — 42 inches high for the counter and table. The stool and chair are usually about 27 — 33 inches high.
In addition, the distance between the top of the bar table and the seat of the bar stool should be between 10 and 12 inches to keep optimal comfort.
2. What is the Best Height for an Outdoor Coffee Table?
An outdoor coffee table should be 16 to 18 inches high, aligning with the seat height of lounge chairs or sofas. This is the ideal height for drinks or snacks while maintaining aesthetic balance.
3. How High is an Outside Bar?
Bar serve counters are typically 42 — 46 inches tall. However, if you plan to use a bar stool, it’s best to choose the bar stool first and then decide on the appropriate bar height.
Although most bar stools are 28 inches high, there are a lot of variations based on manufacturer and style.
Upgrade Your Patio with Outdoor Bar Height Tables: Final Verdict
Choosing an outdoor bar table will become simpler than ever if you know important factors such as sizes, materials, and design style.
You will need at least 36 inches of space around the table to ensure convenient movement and use. Refer to the Flowyline size chart provided above to choose the right table size.
Outdoor bar tables are usually classified according to two main factors:
- Material: wood, metal, plastic rattan/wicker, and composite materials
- Design style: traditional, contemporary, rustic, and industrial
Discover our wide range of metal table legs, which are suitable for popular outdoor bar height tables setups. To stay updated on the latest trends and exclusive offers, sign up for our emails today. And don’t forget to follow our blogs to find more DIY tips!
