Commercial bar design plays a critical role in determining the success of your new venue. Suppose you’re researching how to open a tap room. In that case, you’re likely already immersed in the world of craft beer and hospitality, but translating that passion into a thriving, functional space takes careful planning, smart layout, and the right commercial fit-out partner.
At Octego, we help craft breweries, pub owners, and hospitality entrepreneurs bring their taproom ambitions to life, combining innovative design with practical fit-out solutions tailored to each brand.
Designing a Taproom That Aligns With Your Brand
Every taproom is an extension of the brewery behind it. Whether you want a rustic, industrial look or a contemporary feel that celebrates your latest beer releases, your commercial bar design should reflect your brewery’s ethos and appeal to your target audience.
We always begin with your story. Who are you? What makes your craft beer special? What do you want your taproom experience to feel like? Once we understand that, we translate it into practical fit-out choices, from the Point of Sale (POS) system setup to finishes, furnishings, and feature walls.
Layout Is Key to Foot Traffic and Functionality
One of the most overlooked parts of how to open a tap room is traffic flow. The layout must balance aesthetics with efficiency, keeping foot traffic moving while allowing staff to deliver excellent customer service.
Key considerations include:
- Bar placement for visibility and speed of service
- Seating zones for groups, couples, and solo visitors
- Space behind the bar for kegs, lines, and chilled storage
- Efficient access to restrooms and exits
At Octego, our dedicated project managers help you map out every detail. We use 3D modelling to visualise your space and ensure it works from both a design and operational perspective.
Choosing Durable, Compliant Materials
Because of the footfall, spillages, and equipment involved, a commercial bar needs robust, hygienic, and regulation-compliant finishes. This includes non-slip flooring, waterproof wall cladding, and wipeable bar surfaces.
We specialise in the full fit-out process, including:
- Resin and slip-resistant flooring
- Hygienic wall cladding
- Bespoke joinery and bar counters
- Cold rooms and storage areas
- Groundworks and drainage systems
Whether you’re fitting out a taproom in a brand-new space or converting part of your existing brewery, we’ll provide a fit out service that meets the highest standards.
Behind The Bar: Practical Setup For Taproom Staff
The heart of every taproom is the bar, and it’s here that function really matters. Think beyond just the aesthetics and consider what your taproom staff will need to serve efficiently.
From integrated glass washers to keg systems, shelving, and walk-in cold storage, we tailor the layout and fit-out to support quick, clean, and professional service. A good POS system also plays a vital role, helping manage customer flow and making it easy to upsell or track stock.
Don’t Forget The Brewery Connection
Many taprooms are directly connected to the brewery itself. If you’re looking to open a brewery and a taproom in the same facility, Octego can help you create a seamless space that supports both production and customer experience.
As experts in brewery flooring, drainage, and hygiene-focused installations, we help ensure your production area is both compliant and efficient. Whether you’re working with raw material storage or planning a pipeline straight from your fermentation tanks to your taps, our team will work with your brewing goals in mind.
Budget Planning & Project Management
When you’re investing in a new taproom, cost control is crucial. Our project management process ensures you know exactly what you’re getting, with clear timelines and itemised budgets from the start.
Our team has years of experience working with craft breweries and hospitality venues across Sussex and the South East. From initial concept to refurbishment project completion, we’re here to guide you every step of the way – on time and on budget.
Opening A Taproom? Let’s Bring Your Vision To Life
At Octego, we don’t just build bars, we bring brands to life through functional, beautiful spaces that work for staff and customers alike. If you’re planning a fit out project, we’d love to hear more.
Visit our Commercial Fit-Out Services page to learn more, or call our team directly on 01444 405269.
And, if you enjoyed this blog, you may also like our recent article on Pub Fit Out Companies.
FAQs
What Is the First Step in Opening a Tap Room?
The first step in opening a tap room is developing a detailed business plan that includes your target audience, brewery goals, and location. From there, a commercial bar design expert like Octego can help turn your vision into a practical space.
How Does Commercial Bar Design Affect Taproom Success?
Commercial bar design directly impacts customer experience, foot traffic flow, and operational efficiency. A well-designed bar improves service speed, supports staff, and enhances the overall taproom experience, helping your venue stand out.
What Makes a Good Taproom Layout?
A good taproom layout balances aesthetics with function. Key elements include a prominent bar position, multiple seating zones, easy navigation, and space-efficient back-of-house storage. Every design choice should align with your brand and customer expectations.
Do I Need a Cold Room for My Tap Room?
Yes, most tap rooms require cold rooms or temperature-controlled storage to keep kegs fresh and maintain consistent beer quality. Octego can supply and install bespoke cold rooms tailored to your brewery’s needs.
Can Octego Help With Brewery and Tap Room Fit-Outs?
Absolutely. Octego offers full commercial fit-out services, including flooring, wall cladding, cold rooms, and project management. We specialise in helping breweries and taprooms across the South East open successfully and operate efficiently.