Outdoor Bar Options

Portable Bars

• If you don't entertain often or live where the weather is unpredictable, you may want to purchase a basic folding bar made of wood or light plastic. A simple six-foot folding table may suffice with another table to serve as a back bar. Easy-to-launder linens and skirting will make it elegant and presentable for any occasion. Storage for ice, sodas and other supplies will be plentiful underneath.

Complementing Bars

• Since you already own a nice set of patio furniture, you may want to purchase a bar to match. These bars are available in wrought iron, aluminum or other lightweight metals. Some can be purchased with covers while others may have holders to accommodate pool umbrellas for shade. Storage and other complementing equipment, such as glass racks, bottle holders and refrigeration are also available with some bars or can be added to certain models.

Built-In Bars

• If you find yourself constantly entertaining guests in your backyard, you may want to construct a built-in, permanent bar structure. If you have a wooden deck, you can construct a bar that matches your existing wood. If your yard area has stone or brick structures, a bar can be made of similar materials to blend in with your decorating scheme. A craftsman skilled in metal work can even assemble a wrought iron bar to blend in with furniture or railings. Building your own bar allows you to add what is important to your entertaining needs. For example, if you like to serve keg beer, you can add space and a pump specifically for that purpose.

Pool Bars

• When you build a pool or if you are in the process of building one, an unusual addition would be to construct a bar inside the pool. Bar structures, stools and tables can actually be built and secured to the pool floor to provide a bar area, seating and a place to set your beverages while you and your guests splash and float. Staying in the water and getting your refreshments from such a nearby source is convenient.