Designing a custom shelving unit—especially for a home or commercial bar—means balancing aesthetic vision, functionality, and practical constraints. One of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right mounting style for your shelves.
At Soil & Oak, we help clients find the perfect solution for their space by walking through four key considerations:
1. Look & Feel: What’s Your Design Vision?
When you imagine your dream bar shelving, what do you see?
-
An airy, floating design suspended from the ceiling?
-
A wall-mounted setup that climbs a tall, dramatic backdrop?
-
A counter-to-ceiling showpiece that becomes the centerpiece of the room?
Visualizing your shelving in context is a great first step. Think about:
-
Existing cabinetry or built-ins
-
Window placement and natural light
-
Wall features like sconces, mirrors, or TVs
-
Ceiling height and architectural elements
Pro tip: Use painter’s tape to map out potential shelving layouts on your wall or counter. Spend 10–15 minutes taping out different configurations—it’s one of the fastest ways to visualize scale and spacing before installation.
2. Function: How Will You Use the Shelves?
Your shelving’s function plays a big role in the best mounting method. Ask yourself:
-
Do you need clear counter space for mixing drinks or food prep?
-
Will the shelves be used primarily for display or heavy storage?
-
Are you storing oversized bottles, like magnums or specialty spirits?
-
Do you want to include stemware holders beneath the shelves?
-
Do you need space for an espresso machine or bar tools?
Understanding your daily use case helps determine the right height, depth, and strength for your shelf installation.
3. Obstacles: What’s in the Way?
Before you finalize a design, take a close look at any potential barriers in your space. These common obstacles can impact mounting style and shelf placement:
-
Crown molding can interfere with ceiling mounts
-
Sinks may limit counter-mounted options
-
Thick backsplashes might require creative wall solutions
-
Wall sconces may restrict vertical space
-
Mirror backsplashes can complicate drilling or anchoring
-
Corners or curved walls may need custom-built shelving
Planning around these details early on ensures a smoother installation process.
4. Mounting Support: What Can the Space Handle?
Finally, consider the structural support available in your ceiling, wall, or countertop.
-
Wall- or ceiling-mounted shelves must be anchored into studs or blocking for secure support.
-
If the shelving unit rests on the countertop, the weight is distributed into the base. In this case, standard anchors are typically sufficient to stabilize the unit.
Knowing the weight-bearing capabilities of your surfaces will help you choose the right mounting system—and avoid damage or safety issues down the road.
Final Thoughts: Start with the Vision, Then Build the Plan
Designing custom bar shelving is a creative process that blends style with structure. By starting with your visual inspiration and considering how you’ll use the space, you can choose the right mounting approach to bring your vision to life—securely and beautifully.
Need help designing or installing your bar shelves? Contact our team at Soil & Oak to explore your custom shelving options. We’ll help you find the right materials, mounts, and layout to suit your space and style.