Before you begin any plans to create a balcony bar, you will first need to figure out if your existing balcony is designed to handle the weight of such a project. Not all balconies are meant to hold a significant amount of weight, and adding a balcony bar can be dangerous at worst and inconvenient at best. If you are unsure, have a home inspector visit your home to take a look at the balcony space. If the inspector gives you a green light, you will need to take careful measurements of the balcony space so you can draw up a mock layout.
Try to create a layout that will not take up too much space on the balcony but will still allow for all the features and accessories you want included in your balcony bar. If the balcony is outdoors, be sure to consider the position of the bar in relation to the sunlight throughout the day, and choose materials that will be resistant to weather damage, including direct sunlight, rain, snow, wind, and debris. Keep in mind that you may need to run electrical power out to the balcony bar, so consider power sources in your design as well.
Once you have a design in mind, do some research into materials to find out if the project will be within your budget. Building a balcony bar can get expensive very quickly, so try to find a compromise between your budget and your ideal balcony setup. Never sacrifice safety for cost; lower your costs only by sacrificing aesthetic flourishes, size, or accessories that can be added later on. If you are building the balcony bar outdoors, make sure the hardware — including screws, nails, hinges, and so on — is all made from galvanized steel. This will ensure strength as well as resistance to corrosion and rust.
After you have come up with a good design that will fit your needs and budget, you will need to look into local building codes and regulations to make sure your project will be legal and up to code. You may need to secure building permits in order to begin your project, and you may be subject to inspection at any time throughout the building process. Make sure the balcony bar is built in such a way that neighbors will not be bothered by the new features on your balcony, and you will not be in violation of any codes that restrict how close a structure can be built to a neighbor's property or structure.
