What is an Ice Bar and How to Create One

An ice bar is a bar that has a special layout in which everything including the bar, the chairs, and the interior design is made of ice. These bars offer a stunning visual experience similar to a winter wonderland, allowing guests to enjoy their cocktails and drinks in a chilled atmosphere with novelty experiences. All these make them a popular choice for private events, corporate events, or any winter-themed gathering. 

Explanation of the Ice Bar

Ice bars have many functions. They are especially appealing for guests who seek a unique Arctic experience whether that is during a corporate event, private function, or even at a wedding. 

Their primary purpose is to provide a special atmosphere and refreshing experience, where special events are held, and where people can enjoy a cool atmosphere while sipping on signature cocktails. The design can range from small setups for intimate gatherings to grand installations for bars for various events.

History and Origins of Ice Bars

Ice bars trace back their origin in Sweden in the 1990s with the world’s first permanent ice bar coming into existence in the Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi. Since then, similar establishments have been set up across the globe from Europe to North America, even in tropical countries during the winter holiday season.

Building an ice bar involves much more than just throwing blocks of ice on top of one another. There is a need to design everything from scratch along with the proper tools and skills to achieve an ideal functional and creative form for the bar.

Materials Used in Construction

The primary material, of course, is ice. Large blocks of ice are meticulously sculpted to create the walls, bar counters, and seating areas. 

Some ice bars use ice harvested from the natural environment but the present-day configurations mostly utilize clear ice produced by ice block maker machines due to its precision and durability.

The Role of 105×50 cm Ice Blocks

105×50 cm blocks of ice, owing to their ideal size, weight, and ease of use are very effective in building an ice bar. The blocks are big enough to make the structural elements of the bar, however, they are not heavy enough for one person to carry multiple blocks and for carving. Their dimensions make them the most suitable option for constructing the intricate features that set ice bars apart.

The construction of an ice bar requires advanced tools and technology. One such essential piece of equipment is an ice block maker machine, which provides uniformity to the block produced.

Ice Block Makers P150 & P300

At BFTech, our ice block maker machines P150 and P300 make it pretty straightforward for the right blocks to be formed for ice bars. Such machines are suitable for smaller bars or private events in the case of the P150, while for event bars, the P300 is more suitable. With these machines, you will be able to create beautiful blocks of ice that are easy to carve and shape, significantly reducing the time and effort needed to build an ice bar.

The concept of ice bars took the world by storm, adapting to various countries’ contexts while remaining fundamentally the same. In Scandinavia, ice bars evoke the feeling of the North while in cities such as Las Vegas and Tokyo, they offer a refreshing break from heat. These bars aim to satisfy both tourists and local people, providing ice in various forms and in different creative locations.

Built ice bars are very appealing and impressive but with time they decay. Typically, they last for several months before the structure begins to melt or weaken.

Seasonal Redesign and Reconstruction

Because of that temporary characteristic, ice bars are typically rebuilt every year, more so in places with hot climates. This annual reconstruction leaves windows for renovation, therefore bar operators offer fresh and thrilling designs for old guests coming back over time.

The Continuous Demand for Ice Bar

Ice bars are a favorite among many guests even though they do not exist for a long time. For either a business function or a private occasion, it is still very attractive to be served cocktail drinks in the cool atmosphere of an ice bar. The continuous demand ensures a steady income for those who choose to invest in this unique business model.

The ice bar is a unique combination of art, science, and fun. It is a complex endeavor to build an ice bar, considering everything from its design artistry to hi-tech gadgets such as ice block maker machines. 

Nonetheless, with the use of appropriate equipment and good arrangements, an ice bar will remain a very good investment and provide some fun for the guests and the owner alike.