Pub Crawl: 3 Pro Tips for Designing a Home Bar

A home bar is a luxurious addition that provides an inviting space to entertain guests or unwind after a long day. Adding a bar to your home can help to increase home value and provides an opportunity to explore different design sensibilities as well as express your personal style. When conceptualizing the home bar, consider where it will be located, which amenities will be included, and what storage requirements are necessary to maintain functional use. Try these ideas as you envision your design:

Consider the Location
Lifestyle plays an important role in determining the ideal location for your home bar. Envision how you’ll use the space – will you enjoy a nightcap near the fireplace or will it be used as an extension of your kitchen? Is the bar a part of a larger renovation or do you have a specific area to work within? Do you envision seating around the bar or simply a dedicated station for serving libations? In deciding the location, also consider whether the area has easy access to a water line or if additional plumbing will be needed. Regardless of square footage, custom cabinetry provides the flexibility to transform unused or unusual spaces into a beautiful and highly functional home bar. Open up the space within a staircase spandrel, create a built-in look within a kitchen alcove, or transform your rec room into a full-scale pub. Custom cabinetry will enable you to maximize the space while providing storage for drinkware and room to practice your mixology skills.

Select Amenities
Designing a home bar is a balance of style and function. Consider features that will improve the use of the space as well as those that suit your entertaining style. Incorporating a wet bar and dishwasher will help to streamline clean up. Undercounter refrigeration and temperature controlled drawers are ideal for chilling wine and other beverages. Cocktail aficionados will appreciate a built-in ice machine, while beer drinkers may prefer a draft system for serving beer on tap. For larger bars, you should also consider a back bar countertop that can be used as prep space and a raised counter area to accommodate seating.

Plan For Storage
A stylish bar design incorporates both space to display special items and room to conceal those you would prefer to keep out of sight. Custom cabinetry provides unmatched storage solutions designed to fit your intended use of space. Open shelving or glass-front cabinet doors can showcase glassware and top shelf liquors. Metal rod inserts provide in-drawer storage for bottles while adding protection between glass vessels. Build wine racks with visible access or opt for a bi-pass door that enables you to tuck them away when the bar is not in use. Be sure to reserve space for storing tools and consider the location of any specialty items such a a blender or frozen drink machine that can be stored within a built-in appliance garage. 

Building a home bar is an exciting design journey that allows you to add interest and personality to the space. As you envision your ideal design, our team of experienced interior designers are here to guide you through the process and bring your vision to life. Schedule a consultation with a Wood-Mode designer in your area.