Raised Bar Countertops: Weighing the Pros & Cons

 

In many homes, the kitchen island, or peninsula, tends to be the hub for entertaining guests and family alike. However, the most common question that is asked by homeowners with islands in their kitchens is “should I invest in a raised bar countertop?” As its name suggests, raised bar countertops offer an additional height of about six inches to kitchen islands with normal counter heights. Check out the following pros and cons to help you determine whether a raised bar countertop is the right fit for your home.

Arguments for Raised Bar Countertops

Raised bar countertops can be quite the addition to any home, as they:

Help Keep Clutter Hidden

With an island that has a regular counter height, guests can get a full view of any clutter that may be situated on the countertop, which can make some homeowners feel a little embarrassed. With the additional height that a raised bar countertop adds, any mess on the counter height portion of the island is hidden, giving the appearance of a clean space.

Allow for Interaction Without Interference

Kitchen islands that feature a regular countertop height tend to appear less inviting for guests to pull up a chair to, since most feel they are intruding on the cook’s space. Raised bar countertops, however, help create a more defined line between the kitchen and the living area, which actually makes guests feel more comfortable with sitting at the kitchen island.

Are Great for Entertaining

If your home is one that hosts gatherings on a pretty consistent basis, then a raised bar countertop may be something to consider. With the additional height that it provides, a raised countertop is perfect for putting hors d’oeuvres and other finger foods out for guests to enjoy.

A Case Made Against Raised Bar Countertops

Although there are clear advantages to raised bar countertops, they also:

Cut Down on Prep Space

We all know how valuable counter space can be. If you’re someone who loves to cook, a raised bar countertop may not be a viable option, as it will minimize the space available to prepare food.

Can be More Difficult for Children to Enjoy

Raised bar countertops require barstools in order to sit at a comfortable height. And, since barstools tend to stand taller than seating for islands with normal countertop heights, it can be difficult—and even dangerous—for small children to climb and sit at raised bar countertops.

Create More Work

After cooking and entertaining guests for hours on end, chances are the last thing you’ll want to do is clean. And because raised bar countertops add another dimension to kitchen islands, you will essentially be cleaning two countertops instead of one.

The Verdict is…

Choosing whether or not to go with a raised bar countertop ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and the needs of your family. Homeowners in Scottsdale, Arizona, and the surrounding areas can turn to Legacy Design Build Remodeling for kitchen remodeling solutions that address those needs, whether they involve the addition or removal of a raised bar countertop. Contact us today to schedule a complimentary, no-obligation consultation where we’ll discuss our kitchen remodeling services in greater detail and provide information on our financing options available to qualifying customers.