Creating a stylish home bar has grown in popularity, as the enjoyment of entertaining at home continues to grow.
Whether you're a fan of mixology or simply enjoy hosting gatherings, a well-designed home bar can provide an enjoyable alternative to going out.
In this week's journal, we will explore various ideas and design considerations to help you create the perfect at-home bar experience.
SHOP THE COLLECTION
The Layout and Design
Built-In Wet Bar:
A built-in wet bar is a fantastic option for those who have the space and want a fully equipped bar area.
Here are some design considerations to keep in mind:
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Location: Choose a convenient location near areas like the kitchen, dining room, outdoor entertainment space, patio, or basement.
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Plumbing: Ensure that plumbing is easily accessible for the sink.
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Countertops: Opt for durable and stylish materials such as granite, marble, or quartz.
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Cabinetry: Install cabinets above and below the countertop for storage and consider glass-front cabinets to showcase glassware.
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Lighting: Use pendant lights or under-cabinet lighting to create a pleasant ambiance.
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Seating: If space permits, include a bar counter with stools for comfortable seating.
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Appliances: Incorporate appliances like a mini fridge, wine cooler, and dishwasher for added convenience.
- Flooring: protect against spillage with durable flooring options like an indoor-outdoor rug, or vinyl flooring.
Photo Source: Tays and Co Design Studio
A Dry Bar:
A dry bar is an excellent choice for those with space constraints or where adding plumbing is not feasible.
Here are some design considerations for a dry bar:
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Storage: Focus on storage solutions for bottles, glassware, and accessories since a sink is not included.
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Display: Consider open shelving or a wine rack as a focal point to showcase your collection.
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Countertop Space: Ensure you have ample space for mixing and preparing drinks.
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Backsplash: Add a stylish backsplash that complements the overall aesthetic of the bar.
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Accessories: Stock your dry bar with essential bar tools, accessories, and items like an ice bucket or wine coolers.
Photo Source: Jilco Kitchen and Bar
Free-Standing Bar with Bar Cart:
A bar cart offers versatility and mobility, making it a popular choice. If you want a step-by-step guide for setting up your bar cart, you can read our journal here.
Here are some points to consider when incorporating a bar cart into your home:
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Bar Cart Selection: Choose a bar cart that matches your decor style. Options include bar carts or trolleys made from rattan, chrome, leather, wood, glass, or metal.
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Organization: Use the top shelf for frequently used bottles and tools, and the bottom shelf for additional storage, accessories, cocktail books, and more.
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Styling: Personalize your bar cart with decorative items like a vase, books, living energy, something loved, and something with lustre.
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Mobility: We recommend selecting a bar cart with wheels for easy movement between different areas of your home.
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Accessories: Equip your bar cart with essential bar tools, glasses, and an ice bucket.
Photo Source: Matthew Caughy
Essential Bar Tools and Accessories
At Home Bar Tools
- Muddler
- Corkscrew
- Bottle Opener
- Cocktail Shaker
- Cocktail Mixing Glass
- Jigger & Measuring Cup
- Strainer
- Pour Spout
- Bar Spoons
- Citrus Peelers
- Mixing Sticks
- Small Paring Knife
Photo Source: Tays and Co Design Studio
At Home Bar Accessories
- Carafe
- Ice Bucket
- Citrus Juicer
- Whisky / Gin Rocks
- Jigger & Measuring Cup
- Mandolin
- Decanter
- Wine Saver
- Cocktail Picks
- Glass Droppers
Glassware
When it comes to glassware, aim for a streamlined look by sticking to a similar design in different shapes and sizes. Showcase 4-6 glasses tailored to your favorite drinks, such as whisky glasses, tumblers, or stemless wine glasses.
Photo Source: Suzie Anderson Home
Photo Source: Via Houzz
At Home Bar Lighting
Proper lighting is essential for creating the right ambiance in your home bar.
Consider the following lighting ideas:
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Pendant Lights: Hang stylish pendant lights above the bar area for both illumination and aesthetic appeal.
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LED Strip Lights: Install LED strip lights under shelves or counters to add a modern touch and create different moods.
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Backlit Shelves: Showcase your glassware collection with backlit shelves, adding sophistication to the bar's appearance.
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Track Lighting: Use track lighting to highlight specific areas like the bar counter, display shelves, or artwork on the walls.
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Cabinet Lighting: Illuminate glass-front cabinets or liquor storage areas with cabinet lighting, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
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A chandelier or Statement Light Fixture: Make a statement with a chandelier or unique light fixture that complements your home's overall theme.
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Table Lamps: Place small table lamps strategically on the bar counter or nearby tables for a cozy and intimate atmosphere.
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Candlelight: Utilize flameless LED candles to add a warm and classic glow to your home bar.
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Dimmer Switches: Install dimmer switches for flexibility in adjusting the brightness of the lights, allowing you to set the mood for different occasions.
Photo Source: Granite State Cabinetry
Home Bar Furniture
If you are setting up a complete entertaining area, selecting the right furniture is crucial for a functional and stylish home bar.
Consider the following furniture ideas:
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Bar Counter: Choose a well-designed bar counter that provides ample space for mixing drinks and serving.
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Bar Stools: Select comfortable and stylish bar stools that complement the overall aesthetic of your home bar.
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Shelving Units: Install shelves or display cabinets to showcase your glassware collection and barware.
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Wine Rack: Incorporate a wine rack if you're a wine enthusiast, either as a standalone piece or integrated into the shelving.
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Bar Cart: Opt for a versatile and movable bar cart that adds style and functionality to your home bar.
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Back Bar Hutch: Consider adding a back bar hutch with glass doors to display glassware, decanters, and other decorative items.
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Built-in Lounge Seating: If space permits, create a cosy seating area adjacent to the bar, such as a built-in banquette seat for a more relaxed and intimate atmosphere.
Criss Cross Iron Wine Rack
$140.00
Introducing: Iron Wine Rack in Antiqued Brass Finish Materials: Iron Welcome to the world of sophistication and elegance with our Iron Wine Rack in an Antiqued Brass Finish. Crafted with high-quality iron, this wine rack is not only functional but… read more
Luxury Harvard Leather Picnic Bar Box
$1,090.00
STORE PICK UP/LOCAL DELIVERY ONLY/FREIGHT QUOTE ON APPLICATION Due to this piece's size and weight, we cannot offer our regular Australia-wide delivery. For Australia-wide deliveries, a freight quote does apply for this piece.This is not calculated online and will be in addition to… read more
Accessories: Loved, Lustre, Living.
Adding personal touches and decorative elements can elevate the overall look and feel of your home bar.
Consider the following ideas:
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Artwork: Hang artwork or prints that reflect your personal taste and create a focal point in the bar area.
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Mirrors: Install mirrors to create the illusion of a larger space and add lustre and depth to the bar area.
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Living energy: Add greenery with potted plants or fresh flowers to bring a touch of nature to the space.
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Coasters and Napkins: Use stylish coasters and napkins that match the theme or color scheme of your home bar.
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Cocktail Books: Display a collection of cocktail recipe books for both inspiration and decoration.
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Bar Accessories: Showcase your bar tools, cocktail shakers, and garnish containers in an organized and visually appealing way.
Wine Magnum Celebration Decanter
$430.00
This elegantly designed decanter is the highlight of the range with its sleek lines and gentle curves. Larger than the usual decanter, it is a magnum-sized decanter. It is made of handcrafted glass and a fluted pewter band encircles the… read more
Photo Source: Suzie Anderson Home
