Versatile, communicative, eye-catcher

All-rounder kitchen counter: What you should know about the talented counter bar

The kitchen is more than just a cooking area. It’s a living room and a living space – and it has to meet a wide variety of user needs. That is exactly why you need a kitchen with a counter. This simple piece of furniture, executed to a high aesthetic standard, not only becomes the visual center of the room, but is also highly communicative. In terms of functionality, it also proves to be a real all-rounder:

Slim extension table as an extension of the kitchen unit
The slim add-on table expands the work surface and is offers an easy place to sit for work or communicative togetherness.

Streamlined furniture for versatile use

  • Uncomplicated, stylish dining area for a quick breakfast or a snack in between, generously dimensioned – also suitable for larger entertaining events

  • Additional work surface when the countertop isn’t enough for cooking

  • Stylish pantry if you need more room on the dining table or space for a buffet 

  • Flexible short-term office where you can quickly answer a few emails or monitor the kids’ homework while you cook 

  • Practical storage for all the important things you need in the course of a day – from car keys to an apple from the fruit bowl 

  • Perfect presentation surface for fresh flowers or elegant decorations 

  • Meeting place, because the best conversations always take place at the bar 

Sophisticated design for perfect appearance and functionality

Room divider as a dining area, seating area, and workplace.
This room divider is also a connecting element between the cooking and living areas. Bar stools make it flexible for dining, sitting, or working.

Your design considerations shouldn't just include the aesthetics, but also always the planned use of the kitchen counter. Size and shape are just as important as the choice of material. This will determine whether the overall appearance and functionality meet your expectations later.

The shape makes the difference

A kitchen counter should be sized for optimal use and fit perfectly into the room. 

  • Add-on tables create additional work space. A cooking island expanded by a counter and supplemented with bar stools is the perfect place to cook in good company. If the stools aren't being used, simply slide them under the top.

  • Depending on the floor plan, a wall bar can be a useful alternative. It doesn't have to have the classic 60 centimeter depth of a countertop. This gives you flexibility, especially when space is limited.

  • In open-concept kitchens, you can use the counter as a room divider and connecting element between the cooking and living-dining areas at the same time.

  • Desk tops are sophisticated. They look as if they were simply placed on the countertop, which makes them a real eye-catcher.

Multiple materials are possible

The question of all questions: What material goes on the counter? Should your kitchen have a uniform look? Use the same surface as the countertop. Alternatively, you can go for contrasts. The important thing is that the overall concept of the room is coherent. Either way, you should also keep the future use of your kitchen counter in mind when choosing the material.

  • Wood makes the room warm and looks natural. However, it’s also sensitive – especially if it’s just oiled and not varnished.

  • Thermally pre-processed glass is heat-resistant, cut and scratch-resistant, can be optimally cleaned, requires no maintenance – and looks very elegant. 

  • Natural stone is also durable and beautiful. But whether marble, granite, or slate: Natural stone surfaces must be maintained regularly.

  • Concrete surfaces are also very durable. But they need regular waterproofing.

  • Artificial stones like quartz or the composite material Dekton combine a natural stone look with high-tech material properties. It doesn’t get any harder and more resistant than that.

Practical features you won’t want to do without

Modern kitchen counters also have a lot to offer in terms of functionality – including storage space. Open shelves, as supports, not only provide visual relief; they can also beautifully present glasses, dishes, and other utensils. A base cabinet as a support can store less decorative kitchen equipment. 

You can achieve maximum flexibility with a height-adjustable counter bar. Relax and take a seat at the home office or for dinner. Your guests can stand casually with a glass of wine. 

Also extremely practical: sliding counters. They save space and can be pulled out quickly when you need additional work space. Important: When planning, don’t forget to integrate USB ports and enough power outlets.

Frequently asked questions about kitchen counters

What do I need to know when planning a kitchen with counters?

When designing, be sure to take into account the planned use and the overall aesthetics of the room.

What is the best way to use a counter in the kitchen?

As a dining area, additional work surface, serving space, flexible office, storage, presentation area, and (of course) just as a place to meet with others.

What kind of designs are there for kitchen counters?

You can choose between extension tables, wall counters, room dividers, and desk tops.

What materials are suitable for kitchen counters?

Depending on the planned use and visual ideas, wood, glass, natural stone, artificial stone, and concrete will work well.

Are there any other practical features?

Plenty – including storage space in shelves and base cabinets. There are also counters that are height-adjustable and movable, and the option of integrating USB ports and power outlets.

Simple furniture piece that has a lot to offer in terms of functionality and appearance

Kitchen counters are true all-rounders. It’s important that you include the planned use in your design considerations. Size, shape, materials, and functionality are aspects you should definitely consider. Then the kitchen counter is sure to become the new favorite place – for everyone.

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