Bar and Service Trolleys

Service trolleys: Design classics, contemporary trolleys and practical everyday helpers

The M4R bar trolley from Tecta, here painted black with bottle holder

► Lack of Space? No Dedicated Storage Space? A Service Trolley Provides the Solution
► Design Classic vs. Contemporary Design
► Uses: Versatile and Flexible
► Easy-care, Durable, Stylish: Service Trolleys Compared by Material
► Our 5 tips for Choosing your Perfect Service Trolley

Lack of Space? No Dedicated Storage Space? A Service Trolley Provides the Solution.

We've all been there: missing additional storage space in the kitchen, or a mobile bar unit in the living room, or a flexible side table in the dining room. A service cart — also known as servie trolley or bar trolley — is the elegant and practical solution. Popular in the 1960s and 70s, service trolley are experiencing a comeback as stylish all-rounders. But which serving cart suits your needs and your living style? Whether it's a design classic with retro charm, a trendy piece of furniture, or a functional all-rounder, we'll help you choose.

Design Classic vs. Contemporary Design

Service trolleys have long since ceased to be merely functional aids, but have become style-defining elements that help shape spaces. Our range includes timeless design classics such as the Matégot serving trolley by Gubi, whose delicate appearance creates an elegant fifties flair. While the M4R bar trolley from Tecta with its tubular steel frame and clear formal language convincingly reference its design principles, making it a perfect reminiscence of the legendary Bauhaus era. The minimalist, sophisticated USM Haller Bar Trolley Type I is also an unmistakable design classic with practical, functional details. It embodies a classic understanding of design that harmonises function and form.

In contrast, stand contemporary interpretations from manufacturers like Fermob, Cane-line, and Kartell. The Luxembourg Bar Cart from Fermob impresses with a wide range of colors and weatherproof materials, while the Roll Bar Cart from Cane-line cuts a fine figure both indoors and outdoors thanks to its lightness and flexibility. It goes to show: Whether classic or contemporary design, serving carts combine functionality with style in a truly unique way.

Uses: Versatile and Flexible

A kitchen tray with wheels not only brings order to the kitchen, but can also be used as a mobile coffee or breakfast station. In the living room, the service becomes a stylish cocktail station, while in the home office it serves as a rolling printer table or bookshelf. Even in the bathroom or on the patio, a trolley impresses with its flexibility – especially weatherproof versions like the serving carts from Cane-line or Fermob.

Practical features and functions

Many service trolley offer more than just wheels: removable trays, integrated drawers, open and closed shelves, or foldable sides expand the possible uses. The classic trolley thus becomes a multifunctional all-rounder – for everyday use as well as for special occasions. The Battista bar cart from Kartell, for example, is particularly flexible: Thanks to its clever accordion frame, the base can be variably adjusted, allowing one side of the tabletop to be easily folded down as needed – ideal for storing the bar cart in a space-saving manner or for flexible use in tight spaces. Its little brother, the Gastone serving cart from Kartell, is also foldable thanks to its accordion frame.

Easy-care, Durable, Stylish: Service Trolleys Compared by Material

Depending on the intended use — whether as a kitchen trolley, occasional furniture in the living room, or a flexible bar cart — material and design play a key role. Models with powder-coated steel frames have a contemporary and functional appearance. They are particularly robust and easy to care for, making them ideal for frequent use, for example, in the kitchen or for serving food and drinks. Glass surfaces or plastic shelves complement this functionality while also adding stylish accents.

Those looking to create a more homely ambience should opt for solid wood versions. Furniture manufacturers such as Artek combine natural materials with timeless, modern design, bringing Scandinavian warmth to the room. The Artek Serving Trolleys 900 and 901 make a perfect elegant side table or stylish storage cart in the living area.

Regardless of the style, high-quality materials such as powder-coated metal, glass, or painted wood are durable, easy to clean, and make the serving trolley a versatile piece of furniture for everyday use.

Our 5 tips for Choosing your Perfect Service Trolley

► Determine the location: Kitchen, living room, outdoors?

► Consider the size: Compact for tight spaces or a generous statement piece?

► Match the design style: Would you prefer Bauhaus-inspired (USM, Tecta) or playful and contemporary (Fermob)?

► Compare materials: Particularly easy to care for or natural and full of character?

► Consider the functionality: Pure storage or multifunctional use, e.g., with a bumper bar?