After a long day, few things are more relaxing than soaking in a warm, bubbling hot tub. The soothing hydrotherapy can melt away stress and tension, leaving you feeling renewed and refreshed. However, a standard hot tub setup provides a very basic experience. Adding complementary accessories like a bar table and stool set can take your hot tub relaxation to the next level while also making it easier to entertain friends and family.
Integrating a specialized bar table and stools near your hot tub establishes an inviting space for people to gather with snacks and drinks in hand. The convenience of having beverages and cuisine within arm’s reach makes spending time in the hot tub even more enjoyable. The stools provide comfortable seating so you can relax poolside while socializing with others.
Choosing the Right Bar Table
When selecting a hot tub bar table, there are a few key considerations:
Size, Shape and Height
First, consider the dimensions of the table, opting for a size that fits well in your allotted patio or deck space without feeling overly cramped or crowded. The most common shapes are square, rectangular, round and oval. Determine the right height based on your hot tub’s height – you want a table height that makes it easy to access items from the tub. Standard bar table heights range from 36 to 42 inches.
Materials
Outdoor bar tables come in various materials like weather-resistant woods, powder-coated metals, aluminum, and synthetic composites. Look for waterproof and UV/weatherproof construction to withstand outdoor elements. Wicker and teak offer elegant visual appeal while aluminum and composites require little maintenance.
Style
Select a bar table style that complements your hot tub. For example, if you have a modern hot tub, choose a table with clean lines and metallic accents. If your hot tub is more traditional, consider a wood table with decorative carved details. Coordinate the finishes and colors.
Selecting Complementary Stools
Finding the right stools completes your hot tub bar set. Consider shape, style, size and material options.
Types of Stools
Bar stools have a taller seat height, while lounge stools are lower to the ground for casual lounging. If space is limited, low-profile stools can slide neatly under the bar table when not in use.
Comfort
The shape of the seat and backrest determine comfort. Contoured seats and supportive backrests enable relaxation. Stools with plush cushions or padded upholstery add softness.
Matching Appearance
Select bar stools that coordinate beautifully with your bar table. Consistent finishes, materials and styling create a cohesive look.
Prime Placement Tips
Proper placement of your bar table and stools allows for safe, convenient use.
Clearance
Allow ample clearance around the furnishings so there’s room to comfortably sit and stand without bumping into the hot tub or other obstacles.
Nearby Access
Position the bar table and stools within arm’s reach of the hot tub for easy access to snacks, drinks and other items. However, avoid direct contact with potential water splashing.
Stable Ground
Ensure the bar table and stools sit on a flat, level surface and cannot wobble or tip over. Non-slip feet help keep furnishings firmly in place.
Sun Protection
If the hot tub area receives direct sun exposure, utilize shade from an awning or umbrella to prevent overheating and sun damage to the bar table.
Material Options and Maintenance
The right construction materials make your bar table and stools durable and low maintenance for outdoor use.
Common Materials
Wicker offers a timeless, elegant look but requires more protection from rain, sun, and mildew. Aluminum is lightweight, strong and weathers well. HDPE plastic lumber composites resist moisture, mildew, and weathering.
Durability
All-weather materials that won’t crack, peel, warp or deteriorate from sun exposure, rain, snow and temperature fluctuations ensure lasting use.
Mildew Resistance
Materials that inhibit mildew growth despite humid, wet conditions prevent ugly black mold stains.
Easy Cleaning
Smooth non-porous tabletops and stools that discourage soil buildup, dirt, and debris enable fast and simple cleaning.
Weather Protection
Safeguard wicker and wood tables/stools by using covers or bringing them indoors during harsh weather and winter. Store resin materials in a shed or garage to prevent sun fading.
Designing a Cohesive Look
Tie your bar table and stools into your broader outdoor space with decor that enhances the hot tub experience.
Color Coordination
Choose table and stool colors that complement your hot tub cabinetry and interior. Coordinate with umbrellas, cushions and other accessories.
Ambient Lighting
Strategically placed lighting transforms the space into a relaxing oasis after sunset. Try string lights, lanterns or floodlights.
Landscaping
Lush planting around the hot tub area’s perimeter adds natural beauty while also providing privacy. Consider trees, shrubs, ferns, and flowering plants.
Fabrics
Weather-resistant cushions, pillows and throws in coordinating patterns and textures add plush seating for bar stools.
Entertaining Must-Haves
Equip your hot tub bar table with everything needed for full-service fun.
Drinkware
Stock glasses, tumblers, mugs and stemware so guests can enjoy beverages in style. Insulated cups keep drinks hot or cold longer.
Bar Accessories
A complete bar kit includes bottle openers, pour spouts, cocktail shakers, stir sticks, and other bartending tools.
Refreshments
Chilled wine, beer, water, sodas and juices quench thirsts. Snacks like chips, dried fruits and veggies, nuts and dips curb hunger.
Conveniences
Have plenty of coasters, napkins, towels, blankets and ice on hand so items stay dry and guests stay comfortable.
Music
A waterproof, Bluetooth-enabled speaker adds lively audio when synced to your smartphone playlist.
Safety Considerations
Proper placement and materials selection reduce risks in your hot tub bar area.
Water Hazards
Avoid locating the bar table and stools directly in the splash zone of the hot tub jets or near sprinkler spray that may get furnishings wet.
Slip Hazards
Ensure good drainage beneath the bar table and stools so water does not accumulate and become a slipping risk on the patio surface.
Tip-Over Hazards
Select bar stools with a wide, supportive base or built-in counterbalance weights to prevent accidental tipping.
Hard Surfaces
Cushioned stools and pads on hard patio, concrete or stone surfaces lower risks of injuries from falls and bumps if someone slips.
Comparison of Bar Table and Stool Sets
With so many options, it helps to compare popular styles to choose what works best for your needs and budget.
Materials
Wood tables offer a classic look but require maintenance. Metals like aluminum better withstand weathering. HDPE lumber composites offer durability at a lower cost than wood.
Styles
Contemporary tables have sleek, modern designs with clean lines and metallic accents. Traditional styles exhibit decorative woodworking details. Transitional designs blend elements of traditional and contemporary.
Shapes
Rectangular tables maximize usable surface area. Round tables encourage conversation. Square and oval tables work well in various footprints.
Sizes
Compact 3-foot tables are space-savers. Spacious 6-foot tables provide ample room for multiple people. Standard 4-foot tables suit most needs.
Price
Inexpensive sets under $200 feature basic MDF wood or metal construction. Mid-range options from $300 to $600 offer weather-resistant materials. High-end sets beyond $800 provide premium quality.
Ultimately, the addition of a coordinated bar table and stools can utterly transform your hot tub experience. Having drinks and snacks readily available makes hot tub time more convenient and pleasurable for homeowners and guests alike. The bar area creates an inviting social space for people to relax and engage in conversation together between hot tub sessions. Tailored decor makes the entire area feel upscale, fun and specially designed for unwinding. The possibilities for hosting exciting hot tub gatherings or just quietly soaking amidst beautiful surroundings open up significantly with this small, but impactful upgrade.
Careful placement ensures your new bar table and stools enhance the hot tub environment in terms of both function and aesthetics. Take time to browse the many material, style and size options available to find the perfect match for your existing decor. Keep durability and low maintenance needs in mind. Weather-resistant, easy-care materials crafted specifically for outdoor use provide long-lasting performance and beauty. Bring your vision for a stunning, relaxing hot tub oasis to life by incorporating a coordinated bar table and stool set thoughtfully designed for embracing life’s special moments with family and friends.
