Installing Back-Bar Cabinets, Shelving and Lighting

air compressor with hoses
circular saw
cordless drill with battery and magnetic screw tip
drill press
finish nailer
level
power miter box
router
safety glasses
speed square
table

Materials:

8' countertop
precut glass shelves (10)
3/4" oak plywood (6 sheets)
6' oak 1x6 (4)
roll oak edge-banding (2)
oak crown molding

Bar design. This bar needs to incorporate open storage, closed storage, a wine fridge and room for glassware. We built the back bar about 10 feet wide and 7 feet tall, designing the bar around precut glass shelves.

Cut the pieces. Based on your design, make a cut list for all the pieces you'll need. This will eliminate any confusion later, and may possibly save materials if you plan it right. Use this time to drill the adjustable shelf pins at this point, as well. It will be easier to drill them when the panels are flat, rather than waiting until they are assembled.

Assemble. Most of this can be assembled in pieces. We built it outside, and carried it in and assemble it to apply the finish. Use glue and a brad nailer to assemble everything.

Note: We created a jig (figure A) in order to make it easier to drill accurately placed holes for the adjustable shelf pins (figure B).

Installation. Install the pieces, making sure the columns are spaced correctly for the glass shelves.

Stain, Finish and Completion. Stain and apply a finish to the installed cabinets. Once the finish has fully dried, add the glass shelves, mirrors and the wine fridge to complete the installation.