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Permalink Reply by Denise Smith on November 14, 2008 at 4:44pm

What size wheels are you putting on your under counter fridge and what model is it? Total the height and make sure it will go under. That will determine the height clearance you need. You can find spec sheets at BigTray.com to help out.
I'll be watching to see what others say because we are about to install ours and I'd like to make sure they will be right.

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Permalink Reply by Brady on November 14, 2008 at 7:13pm

Ours is 36", which is standard US kitchen countertop height. The counter that the espresso machine (and only the espresso machine) is on is 3" higher.

I would have big concerns about being able to comfortably tamp on a 40" counter. Remember that you want your forearm to be straight up and down, in line with your tamper. I just tried this motion on a 40" surface and, as an average height (5' 10") man, found it to be uncomfortable. You should measure your own kitchen counters and try tamping on them (and a 40" surface) to see if it works for you.

We designed our bar ourselves - I figured I had more working experience with an espresso bar than your average architect. The way we figured, there is a good reason that this 36" height has become the standard in kitchens. Also, if you go with 36, you can use stock base cabinets and save some serious $$$. It has worked out well for us.

Our fridge has a stainless steel worktop, so we designed a break in the countertop around it. It basically slides in like a standard household range, and can be rolled out to clean the sides (or retrieve something that has fallen behind. The 6" clearance number makes me wonder if yours is this kind and has the backsplash.

Is this architect familiar with espresso bar design, or is this their first one?

Looking forward to seeing other responses.

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Permalink Reply by Sandy Hon on November 18, 2008 at 6:32pm

I would recommend bringing the counter height down if you can. Standard counter height is 36".
Try this for a test: with your espresso machine placed on the counter, if, when you extend your arms to prepare drinks (specifically at portafilter level) if your hand/arm is above your shoulder in any way- you're in a mess of trouble regarding long term carpal tunnel/barista elbow/tendonitis etc.
This also includes when pouring milk and blended drinks. If your elbow is higher than your shoulder.....


written from first hand experience, which included an ergonomics study, several cortizone injections, conventional and deep tissue therapy and one surgery......
it would be more trouble in the long run if you don't address it now during the build out, IMO.

to heck with troubling the artichect. this is what they get paid to do and i totally disagree with needing a 6 inch clearance for the fridge. I think ours has a two inch clearance (tops) and it's on wheels, even.

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Permalink Reply by Amelie & Barb on November 24, 2008 at 4:15pm

Thanks everyone. We've got the architect bringing down to 37 inches!!! Espresso machine will be on 30 inches

thanks!

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Permalink Reply by Paul Tostberg on December 16, 2008 at 10:42pm

I have undercounter refrigeration on the optional "ADA" castors, which are smaller and save around 3 - 4 inches on overall height.

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Permalink Reply by u30jxwipu1i1 on December 17, 2008 at 8:49am

Counter heights can and should be variable.

34 -36 inch counters for espresso machine and grinder areas.

Service counters 36-40 inches.

ADA requirements for cash wrap will also preclude a fixed height. Move the counters up and down, as it adds interest and better work flow as well as ergonomics.

DO NOT put the fridge under the espresso machine. It is an old school mistake that should NOT be continued. Tell the architect to think outside of what they have seen, as you could do what they are doing for way less.

Terry Z

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Permalink Reply by u30jxwipu1i1 on December 17, 2008 at 8:52am

Ok, just read this after my first post.

Fire the architect. 30 inches is way to low for production. Hire a company that does work within the coffee industry and get the proper heights. You only get to do this once, make sure you do it right!

Terry Z

Amelie & Barb said:

Thanks everyone. We've got the architect bringing down to 37 inches!!! Espresso machine will be on 30 inches

thanks!

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