The bar table is the perfect accoutrement to the small kitchen. If space is tight, you can't find a better way to conserve that space and still utilize the kitchen for an eating area. But that's not the only use a bar table serves these days. As its small size is extremely conducive to informal settings, it can be used in almost any room inside the house or any area outdoors where guests might convene. For example, an outdoor bar table would be perfect on a deck during a weekend cookout where friends can talk without needing chairs because of the higher placement. Indoors, the bar table can easily fit in a corner area and will comfortably serve the needs of one or two individuals. Basically it acts as an informal piece of furniture great for an evening of active socializing.

There are as many uses for bar tables in a home setting as there are styles for individual tastes. And while you can find that typical blocky wood bar table that screams of restaurant aesthetics, you don't have to settle on that style to decorate your home. Modern bar tables are easy to find if you know where to shop for them and can be inexpensive at the same time. The best place to shop is online. Prices start at about $78 and can top out at around $800 for a really high quality contemporary bar table.

Consider functionality first. You might come across a bar height table that catches your eye and would look perfect in a room; however, it helps to know beforehand what your intent for that table is. Is it for decorative purposes or will it serve an actual function? Functional pieces may see a lot of traffic. For constant use you'll need a higher quality bar table, which in turn may mean spending more.

Space is another factor. Once you decide on intent you will need to decide on placement. The first thing to do is to take proper measurements. This will help you decide on the shape and size that will fit best.

Bar tables typically stand about 42 inches tall. Width will vary, but you can easily find one as wide or as narrow as you need it. A round bar table seems to be the most popular for small spaces. Rectangle and square tables can seat more and are therefore more suitable for larger spaces. If space permits you can choose a bar height table with an expandable leaf. The thing about the modern bar table is that they are typically minimalist in design and therefore are very easy to maneuver and maintain.

Once you have those basics down, you can consider what kind of materials you prefer your table to be made of. Wood bar tables can be made from oak or maple or teak. Teak is great for outdoors. Aluminum is a standard for cheap bar tables that will see moderate usage. Iron, as you can guess, is a bit more expensive and is typically for outdoor use. Overall there are many materials used in manufacturing these tables, you just have to shop around to find the look you want.

Bar stools are an important consideration as well. Aside from matching your stool and bar table set, you want stools that allow legroom. A disproportionate bar table set will look awkward together. You want to be able to comfortably sit at the table without hitting your knees and you don't want your stool to be so low that your chin is resting on the table. Ideally your bar stools should be about 12 inches shorter than the table's bottom. And depending on how many stools you need, allow at least 5 inches between them. To conserve space further, you might want backless bar stools. These will easily tuck under the bar table when not in use.