Small but mighty, home bars have become a very desirable space for their ability to strengthen the social and entertainment experience within the home. Whether you have a wet bar or dry bar, they are both designed for prepaaring and serving beverages without having to use the main kitchen space. What defines a wet bar? A wet bar has a water source with a sink and faucet while a dry bar does not. However, whether wet or dry, the popularity of the home bar is on the rise for avid entertainers, and the design opportunities are unlimited.
Installing a home bar in common areas near a living room, dining room, or outdoor patio streamlines the hosting process. With all the necessary drink preparation tools at hand—such as bar accoutrements, glassware, and possibly a small wine refrigerator—hosts can cater to guests’ beverage preferences efficiently. While architects often include home bars in new construction, a staircase alcove or closet can also be easily transformed for entertaining duty.
Designers love to treat the home bar as a jewel box and unleash their creative juices to make a big impact. Lacquered walls and/or cabinets in bold colors, specialty hardware, mirrored backsplashes, and richly veined marble are just a few of the decorative elements that can add personality and style to the home bar.
Storage solutions are important for organizing barware and supplies. Cabinets, shelves, and drawers can be tailored to accommodate glassware, bottles, mixers, and utensils. Glass-front cabinets and open shelves offer an opportunity to showcase barware and have it easily accessible. Brass shelves are a popular design choice and offer a Parisian vibe to a space. Drawers keep napkins and plates for hors d’oeuvres close by and organized.
Another key consideration for any bar space is the type of appliances you want to include. Under-counter refrigerators/refrigerator drawers, wine refrigerators, and ice makers are popular appliance choices for the home bar, while dishwasher drawers are also gaining in popularity.
A well-designed home bar strikes a balance between functionality and aesthetics while adding an inviting vibe to your home.
Tips for Statement Bars:
• Consider the overall design of the home
• Use bold colors, lacquered paint, or wallcovering.
• Select onyx countertops or heavily veined marble.
• Heighten the glamour with a mirrored or copper backsplash.
• Expand your space with open shelving or glass-front cabinets.
• Splurge on custom hardware.
• Add an elegant touch with antique decanters and sterling silver trays.
• Reveal your personality through art.
• Corral decanters and bottles with a decorative tray.
[…] For visual flair, hang floating shelves23 to display glassware or add a mirrored backsplash24 to expand the perceived space. A TV mounted at a 45° angle keeps guests engaged without dominating […]