How to Add a Kitchen Bar Extension

Measure the entire kitchen space and draw its layout. Use graph paper to define all components, including the existing bar. Plan the new bar space by installing premade cabinets as base support. Look for possible ways to make a bar longer or fit an L-shape, for example.

Examine floor space to see whether you can extend the bar in a different direction. Cut out pieces of cardboard or poster board to show the floor layout. Make sure your family can navigate around the extended bar space with no crowding. Sketch a T-shape that runs across the end of the present bar at a 90-degree angle. Draw a simple L-shape as another choice. Plan to use identical counter material to cover the new top.

Sketch all component parts before starting construction. Draw drop lights hanging over the new bar space from the ceiling, for example. Use colored pencils to draw the new cabinetry below the bar and old cabinetry that's already in place. Keep in mind that you can buy cabinets at a close-out sale; use bead board paneling on base areas for the old bar and new to blend the styles perfectly. Take old doors off existing cabinets and use open shelving.

Remove old doors and pry loose any cabinets to relocate. Pull off old countertop material that will need replacing before nailing new cabinetry to the floor. Keep in mind that you can move two cabinets farther apart, with no new cabinets underneath, to stretch the counter space. Store short stools under a long counter, totally out of the way of kitchen foot traffic, as one option.

Finish up details and complete the top of the bar space. Stain all lower cabinets in a cherry finish or use white paint on all base cabinetry under the bar, for example. Install new countertop base material and add porcelain tile work, as one choice. Add any details for the countertop while its new surface is under construction. Install a small sink in the addition or add a two-burner cooktop. Run wiring to the cooktop and plumbing to the sink from a basement area.