Every homeowner aspires for a small bar at home where they can hang out with friends and family on weekends over a drink or two. Location of the home bar can be patio, backyard, garage, kitchen, basement, or somewhere else. No matter what, it can quickly convert into a gathering place to celebrate different moods with close ones. It can also be an ideal spot for formal socialization or client meeting. So, do you want to have one in your dwelling? If yes, you would need to make many decisions. Here is a brief glimpse into that to help you in this matter.
Location and size
First thing first – where do you want to establish this? The best choice can be the area where you entertain your guests often. Next, is the size. A small space will be more comfortable with an easy-to-move bar that you can push into a corner when not in use. However, there will be greater scope for creativity if you make it in a basement, patio, or backyard. You don’t have to squeeze into the limited square footage.
Wet bar vs. dry bar
A wet bar includes a sink where you can empty your drinks or rinse glasses quickly. It can be more suitable if you have to do a lot of mixing. Also, bars located at a distance from the kitchen can take advantage of this feature. Designing with different styles of a wet-bar sink can be fun. Hence, don’t stress. A dry bar can be an option if you don’t want to get into a plumbing project.
Bar design ideas for different corners of the house or apartment
Living room
You can choose between a bar cart or simple shelving if your room lacks adequate space. For more storage, you can pick cabinet or bookcase bar ideas. You can lock these up after the party is over to prevent your children and others from accessing them. Many DIY enthusiasts use repurposed furniture for bar cabinets. If you have this skill, you may also try it. Or, if you are searching for permanent solutions, you can include a podium-style linear bar and equip it with stools. Some underneath shelves in the podium design can hold mixers, spirits, and glassware.
Basement
You can build a dedicated bar space on one side of the basement. Simple settings generally include a bar with stools and a refrigerator. Some DIYers opt for insulated walls and flooring to make things more happening for their guests. If you have a basement, you can think of endless creative possibilities.
Patio
Having a drink outside always feels warm and cozy. Hence, choosing this spot can be wonderful. Outdoor bar options are aplenty. You can select between portable and permanent solutions based on the type of season. A bar can be anywhere, on the patio to close to the pool, etc. If you don’t want elaborate arrangements, a dry bar with mixers, cocktail glasses, a cooler, an ice bucket, and a fridge can be perfect. Make sure you select suitable things for an outdoor environment. For example, outdoor kegerators can be susceptible to moisture. So you would want to choose a model that is safe to use in such an ambiance.
Garage
Of course, you park your car here. But you will be wasting this functional space if you don’t optimize it. Think of adding a garage bar, for instance. It isn’t much different from a basement bar idea. But some ideas can make it unique, and you must exploit them for various reasons. You don’t have to take your guests inside the house, and this also means you can be a bit free to make a noise since it is a separate part. Your kids and family can enjoy their peaceful sleep while you party or socialize. You can furnish this area with a fridge, keg, bar appliances, and other things because you don’t have to climb up and down the flight of stairs.
Pub shed
It is a modern version of the man cave, where you can meet your friends and family outside the house over a glass of drink. In this setting, you can include or exclude outdoor seating space based on your preference.
Layout and design
Ultimately, you have to find the right location and size for it. When it comes to layout, you need to consider a few elements like electrical outlets, plumbing sources, cable TV or Wi-Fi accessibility, doorway and staircase dimension, the height of the ceiling, and others. In terms of the design, most home bars tend to be 42 inches tall with a depth of 24 inches. The scope of customization will always be there based on what you have. But keeping these average dimensions in mind can be helpful.
For a 42 inches tall bar, the stools have to be at least 30 inches high. Also, each seat should be at least two inches away from the other. Generally, an eight-inch long bar can accommodate four stools and a six-inch-long bar three stools.
Design elements and materials
The success of any bar design depends on its overall feel and appeal. In this, many components play a huge role, such as the choice of bar countertop, stools, cabinets, tap handles, beer towers, décor, and bar foot rails. Many of them also have to do with your guests’ comfort too. For example, you can add bar rail molding or arm rails to provide your guests with arm support while they indulge in their drinks. It can also take care of spilling issues. Similarly, adding a bar foot rail can be an aesthetic and practical enhancement as it gives your guests something to put their feet on, whether sitting or standing.
Any complex or extensive home bar project deserves the involvement of professional contractors. It can have various aspects, requiring specialized craftsmanship for electrical, plumbing, wood, and other works. Hence, it can be intelligent to ask for their help in this matter. They can finish the job in less time while you focus on other critical areas of your life.