Numerous designer projects prove: a loggia is not only a place to store things. Here you can equip a work office, a relaxation area and much more. A bar counter on the balcony will complement the interior. We share ways to implement this idea.
Is it worth making a bar counter on the balcony?
Each element in the design of an apartment has a purpose. The bar counter serves as an additional place for a feast, decorates the room, and makes it stylish.
Advantages of placing a bar counter on the balcony:
- since it is supposed to combine the balcony with the room: demolition of the window, part of the wall, more light penetrates into the apartment, a panoramic view from the window appears;
- the balcony is used as a relaxation area, and does not stand idle;
- if the apartment is small, it fully replaces the dining table;
- it is not difficult to install; approval from supervisory authorities is not required;
- can be used not only for a feast, but also for many other things;
- It is not necessary to use expensive materials; there are affordable options.
But there are disadvantages of such innovation indoors:
- bar stools can be high for children;
- panoramic windows can cause heat in summer and cold in winter; a sun shield and high-quality insulation of the loggia are required;
- if the counter replaces a table, then many people will not sit at it, it may seem narrow and uncomfortable;
The location of the structure can be varied..
Decorating a balcony in an apartment
The balcony in standard apartments has a limited area, so it is difficult to use it effectively without labor-intensive and expensive redevelopment, which also requires permission from an architect or other specialist. That is why most people turn the balcony into a kind of storage room, smoking room or drying room for laundry. Such use is inappropriate in most cases, and designers, in collaboration with builders, have repeatedly proven this by implementing a more successful design of a balcony in an apartment in various ways. We will consider these methods, or rather options for the practical use of a balcony, below. We hope that one of the examples given will inspire you to radically remodel your balcony. Study. On a well-insulated balcony, it is quite possible to create a small office and move there, along with a computer and a cabinet with work materials that are in the way. The main thing is that there is no balcony on the ground floor, otherwise thieves will be tempted to break out the window and borrow expensive computer equipment. The advantage of the working class on the balcony is privacy; none of the household members will interfere with concentrating on work. On the other hand, the sun shining through the window and street noise can be disturbing, so you need to use good double glazed windows and, if possible, blinds. Let's start our review of balcony workstations with a budget option, which requires virtually no additional investment; you just need to glaze the balcony and select a suitable sized table.
Another simple, but much more expensive option. To implement it, you will have to do cosmetics for the balcony plus a little imagination when installing the table.
A more expensive and interesting option. Apparently they are making an improvised wardrobe from the kitchen on the balcony, but the main thing is that it does not completely cover the window, which means it allows access to the room in sunlight.
A more expensive option, which involves remodeling the apartment (enlarging the windows) and expensive finishing of the balcony. It looks beautiful, but is not very practical; too much free space is wasted.
The office is located on a loggia or on a significantly expanded balcony. Very beautiful and comfortable.
And the last one, one of the cutest options.
2. Workshop. A workshop on the balcony is often the only way to get something done without disturbing your household or being constantly reproached. In addition, on the balcony you can perform work involving the use of caustic, as well as strong-smelling substances and materials, which, if they do not wreak havoc, will certainly ruin something. The balcony is easier to ventilate and can be adapted, unlike the living room. The first example is a typical men's workshop on the balcony. It's cramped, of course, but it's better than nothing.
The second example is a workshop for women, decorated in slightly warmer colors and a little neater. It's still narrower, but it can fit.
Next is another workshop with unimaginable capacity.
To be completely fair, another sewing workshop.
Well, finally, we present the main masterpiece.
Apparently, the workshops on the balconies are not distinguished by special care and beauty, but they do not need them, because work does not mean perfect cleanliness. And finally, a video about making glass decorations for the balcony. Read about it. 3. Recreation area. If the sun periodically looks at the sun and if it opens with a more or less decent view, you can create a sitting area with a table and chairs on the balcony. Believe me, drinking coffee or tea on the balcony in the summer, watching the sunrise is an indescribable feeling that allows you not only to wake up quickly, but also to gain positivity for at least the next 5-6 hours. By the way, decorating a balcony in an apartment in the form of a recreation area is very popular, but also very expensive. We look and quietly envy If you also decided to do something on the balcony, but are not sure that you can do it yourself, then you should use the services of professionals. Muscovites can recommend the company Glazing Service, whose managers are personally acquainted. Your balcony will be tidied up conscientiously and inexpensively (by Moscow standards, of course). It is as beautiful as in the pictures above; of course, it won’t work out (very expensive), but a pleasant and neat atmosphere is guaranteed. Here's an example.
Details in the finishing of the Balcony. Also, be sure to take a look at our work and determine for yourself whether this level of finishing is suitable for you or whether you still need a more expensive and beautiful one. PS This is not an advertisement, but a recommendation from good friends. There will never be hidden advertising on our website.
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How to position?
Not all layouts provide enough space to place a wide tabletop on the balcony. Location options differ in functionality and appearance.
Folding
Suitable for arranging a small balcony, loggia. Saves maximum usable space in the room. To install it, you do not need to dismantle the balcony block.
Advantages:
- inexpensive - due to its lightness, the tabletop is sold at an affordable price, as are the fasteners for it;
- installing the structure on the wall is simple, the participation of specialists is not required;
- compact - if folded, it becomes almost invisible and does not take up additional space;
To install such a tabletop, you will need: a sheet of chipboard (wood or other material), brackets.
Rack design
On a small balcony or loggia, the bar counter is usually located along the glazing . In essence, it is a narrow tabletop that resembles a window sill. It is not necessary to do it along the entire perimeter of the balcony. Usually it occupies the side and part of the façade parapet on the side opposite to the door. Although the lack of space does not give much choice, you can show some imagination in creating a design. The tabletop can have curved or straight lines; you can also make several separate “islands” of the same or different configurations.
If the balcony has extended glazing, it is much easier to make a bar counter, since the tabletop is almost ready. You just need to give it the appropriate design, covering it with decorative material. In this case, the tabletop will not occupy the interior space, and the entire device will be located outside the balcony, saving space on it.
Table top for balcony, materials
Here you need to focus on the design of the balcony, the adjacent room, as well as your preferences. For some, the properties of the material may be fundamental.
Chipboard, fibreboard, MDF
The most versatile material, wide choice of colors. Service life is shorter than others. The chipboard material is fragile and wears out quickly. MDF and fiberboard are more durable; you can create an imitation of wood structure or marble coating on them.
Metal
Such a tabletop on the loggia should be combined with the rest of the interior. It is often painted to match the color of the surrounding decor. Individual elements are made from metal - brackets, legs, pillars. The material is coated with a special compound so that it does not rust. Countertops made from it are unpretentious, lend themselves well to wet processing and cleaning, and do not react to heat.
Acrylic
Wear-resistant, inexpensive material. Does not change shape due to temperature and moisture and is resistant to damage. It has no micropores, it does not absorb moisture or dirt. Odors do not penetrate into it. Easy to wash, reacts well to cleaning products. Easy to change shape, you can create any design and color of the tabletop. The material is harmless to humans.
Stone
Stone countertops are the most durable of all. The service life of such a bar counter tends to infinity and looks great in the interior of the loggia. Natural marble and granite are used for it. Artificial stone has performed well; its properties are not inferior to natural ones. The material is expensive.
Tree
It looks luxurious and gives the interior a cozy feel. The cost of such a countertop depends on the type of wood; valuable species can be very expensive. The material is environmentally friendly, breathable. Countertops are often made from pine, oak or birch. It is made from slabs and sawn wood, and decorative elements are added (metal, epoxy resin, etc.). Requires high-quality coating and careful care. It can serve for a very long time.
Glass
Tempered glass is used for tabletops. It is stronger, not afraid of temperature changes, and can be washed or left in the sun. It is not destroyed by humidity and detergents. Manufacturers offer glass tabletops in various shapes; you can make them to order. Mosaics, colored glass, metal, and stained glass are used as decorative inserts.
Additional accessories
Accessories save space
The stand can also become functional. Containers for cereals or fruits are placed on it. Manufacturers also offer a range of pull-out shelves and rails. Accessories add color accents. Practical materials for tabletops are glass or wood.
Accessories are used to place glasses, mugs or kitchen utensils. Napkin hangers are used. They store dishes or other necessary items. The main thing is to choose jewelry that will match the chosen style.
How to make it yourself
This option is easy to repeat in any space, in the kitchen or living room:
- The balcony window and door are carefully removed; only the base should remain of the entire block; the tabletop will later be placed on it.
- Accurate measurements are taken and the length and width of the future tabletop are calculated. You immediately need to choose a shape and material. They are often made to order, since universal sizes are not suitable for a bar counter on a balcony.
- A tabletop with rounded edges and finished finishing is ordered. The material is selected according to the wishes and financial capabilities of the owners.
- The tabletop is attached to the mounting foam. To fix it securely and for a long time, metal corners and liquid nails are used.
- The joints are filled with sealant, silicone. In some cases, it is appropriate to install skirting boards.
- After this, you can install accessories. Hanging shelves and pipes are used to decorate and create storage spaces. On top you can install drawers for dishes or holders for glasses.
- The final touch is the bar stools. Depending on the height of the counter, they can be classic high, in the form of poufs or stools.
When taking measurements, you need to take into account how much free space will remain after installing the countertop. It is necessary that moving around is not difficult, chairs fit freely and a person can walk through. If everything is done according to the rules, then no inconvenience will arise.
Antiexamples
Despite current trends, projects still contain “features” that cannot be called modern. And often they relate specifically to interiors with a bar. What exactly should you avoid in design?
- The most important thing is the relevance of the forms. Cabinet furniture today is about geometry and straight lines. Therefore, it is better to ignore all advice about rounded corners and smooth tabletop shapes. This is an outdated approach.
- Chrome parts are also a thing of the past. There are still bar stools with chrome legs paired with the same bar. Such models were popular in the 2000-2010s. They reduce the cost of the entire design, even if the decoration and other furniture are relevant. Instead, we recommend high half-chairs, wooden chairs and classic modest stools.
- You should not get carried away with creating additional storage spaces, for example, arranging drawers under the table cover. The bar on the balcony should not be overloaded; it serves the function of complementing the space, nothing more. And here the iron rule is correct: the simpler the design, the better.
- Bright colors are also not a good choice for decorating a loggia. Today, dusty shades and black and white are relevant. So it is better to avoid accents in the form of a bright red or blue bar.
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What types of tabletops are there, how are they decorated?
In modern design, bar counters on the balcony and other places are often used and are considered a sign of good taste. The design becomes multifunctional, additional functions are added in addition to the basic ones. The decor for bar counters is selected based on the design of the room, construction materials and general rules of stylish design.
Classic
The classic bar counter is suitable for a wide space; it is used when connecting a loggia when there is a lot of free space. Height is approximately 120 cm, width 50 cm. It is complemented by high bar stools. They look like chairs with footrests, complemented by backs and armrests.
Some owners prefer similar stools with leather seats. Small half-chairs look expensive; they cost according to their appearance.
To make the most of the rack's capabilities, it is supplemented with the following equipment:
- hanging holders for glasses, glasses;
- shaker;
- coffee machine;
- juicer.
You can place any small equipment or decorative elements such as a vase or dish with fruits or sweets.
Mini
For an ordinary balcony, this design is the most convenient option. There is usually not enough free space; a bar counter will replace a dining table and free up space in the room. Such models are no higher than 90 cm; they can be used as a kitchen countertop for cutting food if the kitchen area is too small. The additional elements here are the same as in the classic version.
The only caveat is that it is not recommended to place foreign objects on the mini stand; they can easily be accidentally pushed over and broken due to the compressed space.
It is convenient to use such structures if there are children or elderly people in the house. It needs low chairs; no one will have to climb onto a bar stool.
Interesting options for transforming a window sill
If there is little space in the apartment and a permanent table will get in the way and take up a lot of space, then a transforming window sill is an excellent option. You can expand it before lunch and fold it back when you don't need to use it. An upgraded window sill can be turned into many things. For example, at lunch there is a table, and after that there is a comfortable couch for relaxation. This is not considered something strange or inappropriate, but rather speaks of your economy and prudence. So, even the smallest apartment or room can be turned into a multifunctional complex.
A folding table will be the optimal solution for a narrow balcony
This design is quite easy to make with your own hands.
Tabletop
The wide window sill, which looks like just a window sill, extends perfectly. Without the use of force. It turns into a countertop and is an extension of the kitchen. If you are the owner of a small kitchen that barely fits a table and kitchen appliances, and there is no workspace left for cooking, then a countertop on a loggia in an apartment will be an excellent alternative. You can cook food there, and then, when the work surface is not needed, it can be folded, thereby adding the necessary space.
The retractable tabletop will serve as an excellent addition to the kitchen interior
The tabletop can also be attached to the wall so that it starts in the kitchen and ends on the balcony. Experts will tell you how to properly place it and, if necessary, fold and unfold it. If you have small children, you can choose models with rounded edges, which will look very elegant and will protect you while cooking.
Bar counter
A bar on a balcony in an apartment is the dream of not only housewives, but also men who like to sit with friends without being disturbed. This can be easily accomplished by making a bar counter out of a window sill. If space is limited, then you can consider options for transforming the window sill. You can choose options that will store various drinks or cocktails and that will not fall out when unfolding and folding this model.
Most often, a bar counter is installed instead of a window sill.
Design form
This is an important point that affects the overall impression and functionality. The choice should be based on the original idea, the availability of free space and the wishes of the owners.
Semicircle
The usual straight lines are successfully replaced by the streamlined shapes of a semicircular tabletop. The bar counter can be oval, giving the space lightness. More people can be seated at such a tabletop, like at a round table during negotiations.
Rectangle
It fits well in place of a window opening, especially as part of a kitchen set. Often they make an uneven edge on such a tabletop; it looks natural, especially if it is made of natural materials. The wood countertop is impregnated and varnished. The design looks luxurious, lasts a long time and does not react to impact.
You can supplement it with lighting from below or install a cabinet on the side with LED bulbs placed around the perimeter.
Not standard
Wood, acrylic and chipboard are universal materials. They can be given any shape, for example, a tabletop in the shape of a drop looks interesting. Zigzag countertops and even triangular bar counters fit into some interiors. The uniform is made to order at the request of the owners.
Unusual facade design options
Decorating a bar counter is not limited to plain facades or brick-like layouts. Of course, you can leave the laconic monochromatic option, but decorating in a new style requires a different solution.
One of the non-trivial solutions is installation in the lower opening of the aquarium. It looks impressive, but requires care. If the owners are not in awe of the fish, you can make it look like a real aquarium.
It’s beautiful if there is a panel with a pattern and lighting on the façade. You can change the color of the LED, then you won’t get tired of this design for a long time.
If you make a small shelf at the bottom of the bar and place pots of tall grass there, you will create the illusion of a wall of greenery. It looks fresh and unusual. The main thing is to fence off the pots with an additional partition so that they are not touched by feet.
If preference is given to natural materials in the setting, an interesting solution is to install bamboo sticks along the perimeter of the facade. The figured wooden cladding looks beautiful.
It is important to understand that decorating the facade should not burden the structure; it is good when it looks natural and light, and does not burden the eye.
Long stand without intermediate supports
Nothing else will stop you from enjoying the view of the street and your cappuccino. The long stand is attached with its end to the side cabinet, and only one wide “leg” from the other end is used as a support. There are no intermediate support elements provided. Stylish and concise.
By the way, if you make this stand on a panoramic balcony along the entire glazed part, then you will be guaranteed a luxurious view of the evening lights and marvelous sunrises over the city. All that remains is to buy bar stools and think about the lighting.
If you want fresh solutions or have a balcony of a non-standard configuration, then such a stand can be made into a corner or placed on the side wall. This will allow you to save even more space, and install, for example, a treadmill in the free space. Training with a view of the landscape - what could be more beautiful?
Pillars
This is not a required element on the bar counter. Sometimes they are necessary and act as a support for the tabletop. Can be decorated with decorative elements. For example, in combination with a Provence style kitchen, a small decorative bird cage mounted on a pole in the upper part looks beautiful. For a party, you can decorate with LED strip or lanterns.
You can also apply a pattern to match the kitchen or living room, so that the bar counter and kitchen set become elements of a single composition.
Loft-style bar counters contain metal elements. Pipe pillars look great here; they come in uneven shapes. This design is brutal and very modern. At the same time, the tabletop should be made of valuable wood and not wide, so that the stand as a whole looks light and fits into the interior.
Design of a combined kitchen
The transition area from one room to another can be finished in several ways. The following options are most optimal:
Decorative arch. It can be made of plaster, clay stucco, brickwork, followed by a beautiful coating. It is also very practical to use a frame arch made of wood. Wood is an excellent basis for decoration, painting, opening with acrylic varnish and veneering.
Wide table top. If a zealous owner has an old wooden table in his pantry, you can restore it with your own hands. To do this you will need a set of pigment dyes, stone chips, other decorative elements and epoxy resin.
A small podium or step, along the contour of which spotlights are built-in. It is especially often used to decorate a kitchen-living room with a balcony.
At the junction of two zones, a row of LED strips, a beautiful floor lamp or a wall lamp will look original. Various floor coverings are also often used to delimit one area from another.
