Garden bar projects go wrong when the fun decisions come first. Buying the sign before the base is done, or the fridge before the power is planned, leads to rework. This checklist puts the decisions in an order that avoids most of it.
1. Decide what the bar is for
- Who will use it, how often and in which seasons?
- Indoor room, outdoor counter, or a serving hatch with seating outside?
- How many people on a normal evening, and on a big occasion?
See garden bar ideas and small garden bar ideas.
2. Choose the spot
- Measure the space and the distance to every boundary.
- Note sun, shade, wind and where water collects.
- Check the route from the house for carrying glasses and running power.
- Think about views from neighbours' windows.
3. Check the rules
- Planning: England, or Scotland, Wales and NI.
- Building Regulations.
- Covenants, lease or landlord.
- Insurance.
4. Pick the route
- Buy, convert or build? See build vs buy.
- Check sizes and cladding if buying.
- Inspect an existing building thoroughly if converting.
5. Budget it
- Price every layer with real quotes in the budget planner.
- Include the base, power, treatment and fit-out.
6. Plan the services
- Talk to a competent electrician about loads, sockets, lighting and the cable route. See power.
- Decide on water and drainage, if any. See sink and water.
- Plan the heating approach. See heating.
7. Build the base
- Follow the maker's base requirements. See base options.
- Lay ducts for cables before finishing the base.
8. Put up the building or counter
- Check delivery access. See delivery and assembly.
- Treat timber as required. See treating timber.
- Insulate if you want winter use. See insulation.
9. Fit out
- Electrics installed and certified.
- Counter at the right height. See counter height.
- Storage, shelves and glassware. See back bar shelving.
- Fridge suited to the conditions. See fridges.
- Lighting for the route and counter. See lighting.
- Seating. See seating.
10. Finish and open
- Sign and decor. See signs and decor.
- Security and fire safety. See security and fire safety.
- Tell the neighbours. See neighbours.
- Read the hosting checklist.
11. Keep it going
- Add the maintenance calendar reminders to your phone.
Print this page, pin it in the shed and tick things off as you go. It keeps the exciting jobs in their proper place: at the end.