How to Build a Bar on Top of Drywall

Measure the bar footprint in relation to room walls. Allow a minimum of 12 inches for an overhang where you will place stools. Cut heavy cardboard to create a floor template of the overall shape of the bar, so you can envision how much room the completed structure will require.

Go into the basement to figure out the best route for wiring and plumbing needs if you will have outlets or a sink in the bar. Build the basic wooden framework for the bar, using pressure-treated lumber, before running wiring, water lines or drains into the bar area. Cut 2-by-4-inch boards with a circular saw to form the bottom plate of the bar, mitering the corners with a miter box saw. Nail the bottom plate into floor joists using size 10d nails.

Construct the framework shape to accommodate a bar 36 to 42 inches in height. Cut 2-by-4-inch boards to form vertical studs dividing the bar into sections. Nail the boards into place on 16-inch centers.

Cut boards for a top plate to cap the studs on all four sides of the bar. Miter the corners just as you did the bottom plate corners for a smooth fit. Make the top plate identical in size to the bottom plate, allowing height for 1/2-inch plywood sheathing and bar top material that will create the pre-determined bar height you desire.

Cut a bar top that extends over one or more sides of the bar base. Make the cutout for the sink, if you will use one, and install plumbing lines. Tighten the bar top underneath the framework with bolts. Run wiring for any outlets you will place on the sides of the bar or on top. Install conduit that will hold the wiring inside the bar framework.

Install 5/8-inch-thick drywall sections over the base of the bar, using a drywall knife to score the drywall to sizes you need. Cap the edges of the drywall corners with metal sleeves to protect the structure over time.

Nail the drywall to fit the bar shape and cover seams with drywall tape before applying joint compound. Allow the joint compound to dry, sand all seams, and repeat the process until the drywall sides of the bar are smooth. Paint the drywall with semi-gloss enamel paint. Cut baseboard material to fit around the bar at the floor level.