Shop Counter Design: Sizes, Materials and Costs

Standard shop counter sizes

There is no single legal size, but these dimensions work for most retail and hospitality counters.

Start with what goes on and in it

The biggest counter mistakes come from designing the box before listing the equipment. Write down everything that has to live on or under the counter, then design around it.

• ✓Till, card machine, receipt printer and bag storage
• ✓Coffee machines, grinders, chillers and dishwashers in cafes
• ✓Power, data and waste routes, decided before the floor is finished
• ✓Security: lockable drawers and a safe position
• ✓Display: glazed fronts, lighting and product shelves

Choosing materials

Pick materials for the abuse they will take, not just the mood board.

• ✓Laminate and compact grade: tough, affordable and easy to clean, good for busy retail
• ✓Painted or spray-lacquered MDF: any brand colour, best on fronts away from kicks and trolleys
• ✓Hardwood and veneer: warm and premium, needs a hard-wearing lacquer
• ✓Solid surface and Corian: seamless, hygienic and repairable, the best top for food and drink
• ✓Metal and corrugated panels: industrial looks and real durability at kick height

What drives the cost

Length, materials, integrated equipment and lighting move the price most. A straight laminate cash desk is a very different job to a curved, lit, Corian-topped cafe servery with refrigerated display.

The best way to get a fair price is to send a floor plan, your equipment list and a couple of reference images. We quote every counter individually so you only pay for what you actually need.