Choosing a bar cart should be exciting — but with so many styles, sizes and materials available, it can quickly become overwhelming. This guide cuts through the noise and gives you a clear, practical framework for finding the bar cart that's exactly right for your home.
Step 1: Know Your Space
Before you look at a single bar cart, measure your space. Ask yourself:
- Where will it live? Living room corner, dining room wall, kitchen, outdoor deck?
- How much floor space is available? Measure width and depth — leave at least 60cm of walking clearance around the cart
- What height works? Bar carts typically range from 70–95cm tall. Consider eye level and whether you want it to function as a side table
- Will it need to move frequently? If yes, prioritise good wheel quality and a lighter overall weight
Space Guide
| Space Type | Recommended Size |
|---|---|
| Studio / small apartment | Compact: 50–65cm wide |
| 1–2 bedroom apartment | Medium: 65–80cm wide |
| House / open plan living | Full size: 80–100cm wide |
| Outdoor / alfresco | Medium to large with sturdy wheels |
Step 2: Choose Your Material
Bar carts come in a range of materials, each with different aesthetics and maintenance requirements:
Metal (Gold, Brass, Black, Chrome)
The most common and most versatile. Metal bar carts are durable, easy to clean and available in the widest range of styles. Gold and brass add warmth; black adds drama; chrome adds a cool, contemporary edge.
Best for: Most Australian homes. Easy maintenance, long-lasting.
Timber / Wood
Warm, organic and textural. Wooden bar carts suit natural interiors — Hamptons, coastal, Scandi. Require more care around spills but develop beautiful character over time.
Best for: Natural, relaxed Australian interiors.
Acrylic / Lucite
Modern, transparent and space-expanding. Acrylic carts suit contemporary interiors and feel less visually heavy in smaller spaces. The clear shelves show off glassware beautifully.
Best for: Contemporary apartments and minimalist spaces.
Mixed Materials
Many of the most popular bar carts combine materials — iron frame with leather shelves, metal frame with glass or mirror surfaces, timber shelves with black iron legs. These hybrid carts often have the most character and versatility.
Step 3: Choose Your Finish
The finish of your bar cart should complement your existing furniture and decor:
- Gold / Brass — warm, glamorous, suits neutral and cream palettes. The most popular choice in Australian homes.
- Matte Black — bold, contemporary, suits dark or high-contrast interiors. Very on-trend.
- Chrome / Silver — cool, contemporary, suits grey and white interiors. Clean and understated.
- Natural Timber — warm, organic, suits coastal and natural interiors.
- Black and Gold — the luxury combination. Dramatic and sophisticated.
Step 4: Consider the Shelf Configuration
Most bar carts have two shelves — but how those shelves are configured matters:
- Open flat shelves with rails — best for displaying bottles and glassware. Most common and most versatile.
- Tray-style shelves (with raised edges) — better for containing items. Ideal for outdoor use or when you have children or pets.
- Mirror or glass shelves — most glamorous. Shows off everything beautifully but requires more careful handling.
- Timber tray shelves — warm and practical. Easy to clean and naturally forgiving of spills.
Step 5: Set Your Budget
Bar carts in Australia range from around $150 to $1,500+. Here's what to expect at different price points:
| Budget | What You Get |
|---|---|
| Under $300 | Entry-level. Lighter materials, simpler finishes. Good for renters or those trying the look for the first time. |
| $300–$600 | Mid-range. Better quality frames, more refined finishes, improved wheel quality. Most of our best-selling carts sit here. |
| $600–$1,000 | Premium. Heavier gauge metal, glass shelves, superior finish quality. Statement pieces. |
| $1,000+ | Luxury / designer. Artisan materials, unique designs, heirloom quality. |
Step 6: Think About How You'll Use It
Your lifestyle should drive your choice:
- Frequent entertainer? Choose a larger cart with plenty of shelf space and a sturdy frame that handles daily use
- Occasional use? A smaller, more decorative cart works beautifully as a display piece between parties
- Outdoor entertaining? Prioritise weather resistance and wheel quality
- Small space? Look for a compact oval or round cart that doubles as a side table
- Gift? A mid-range gold oval cart is the safest choice — it suits almost any Australian home
The 60-Second Bar Cart Checklist
Before you buy, run through this quick checklist:
- ✅ Measured my space and know the maximum dimensions
- ✅ Chosen a finish that works with my existing furniture
- ✅ Considered whether I need it for indoor, outdoor, or both
- ✅ Decided on open shelves vs tray-style shelves
- ✅ Set a realistic budget
- ✅ Checked that free delivery is included (it always is with Royal Bar Carts)
Follow those six steps and you'll find the right bar cart every time.
Browse our full collection and find your perfect bar cart — free delivery Australia wide →
