A successful bar isn’t just about the drinks — it’s about the experience. And that experience begins with a fit-out that works for both your team and your customers.

At Harrison Carr, we’ve been helping venues across the UK design and install functional, stylish bar spaces for over 20 years. Whether it’s a compact service bar or a full-featured cocktail station, we know what separates a good layout from a great one.

If you’re planning a new fit-out or thinking about refreshing your space, here’s what to keep in mind.

1. Layout = Speed + Profit

Bar design is all about flow. When bartenders have to cross over, reach awkwardly, or backtrack between stations, you lose valuable seconds — and that affects your bottom line.

An efficient layout means:

• Drinks can be prepped without staff getting in each other’s way

• Back-of-bar tools and spirits are within arm’s reach

• The POS is strategically placed to avoid service delays

We help venues plan their bar fit-outs with “speed rails,” “cocktail stations,” and service paths that support volume and reduce wait times.

2. Design for Your Service Style

Not every bar works the same way and your fit-out should reflect that.

Ask yourself:

• Are you serving high volumes quickly (e.g. pub pints)?

• Is your focus on craft cocktails that require more prep?

• Will there be table service, bar service, or both?

For high-volume bars, durable finishes and quick-access fridges are key. For cocktail lounges, prep space, chilled garnish storage, and accurate lighting matter more. At Harrison Carr, we tailor each fit-out to match your style of service.

3. Storage Shouldn’t Be an Afterthought

Even a small bar handles a lot of stock and it needs to be stored efficiently and hygienically. Poor storage leads to delays, clutter, and stock loss.

What we recommend:

• Built-in glass racks and bottle wells for quick access

• Chilled underbench units for garnishes and mixers

• Dedicated storage for cleaning products and bar tools

• Lockable cabinets for premium spirits

With the right storage plan, your team spends more time pouring and less time searching.

4. Front-of-House Finish Matters

Your bar is often the centrepiece of your venue. It should reflect your brand, atmosphere, and the type of experience you’re offering.

We help clients consider:

• Materials that are both durable and visually striking

• Lighting that highlights key areas without blinding the staff

• Feature elements like tiled front bars, brass rails, or timber panelling

Importantly, we also balance aesthetics with function — ensuring finishes are easy to clean and built to last.

5. Integrate Your Systems Early

From refrigeration and ice machines to EPOS systems and sound setups, it’s essential to plan your bar’s tech requirements from the beginning.

We help you:

• Allocate proper ventilation and drainage for machines

• Position data points and power where they’re needed

• Future-proof your setup for new systems or upgrades

A tech-ready bar fit-out helps service run smoother — and reduces the need for disruptive modifications later on.

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Build a Bar That Works Hard and Looks the Part

The best bar fit-outs don’t just look sharp — they work hard, shift after shift. They’re designed to move quickly, clean easily, and support your team in delivering a top-tier guest experience.

Whether you’re opening your first venue or giving your existing bar a new lease on life, Harrison Carr can help you get it right from the ground up.

Let’s raise the bar.

Contact Harrison Carr to start planning your bespoke bar fit-out.