Over the years we’ve designed quite a few home bars for our clients. From swanky and grownup to kid- and family-friendly bars, we’ve done it all. Read on for a few tips we’ve learned along the way.
1. Know your audience - Is this bar meant for cocktails and small groups, or does it need to service big family Super Bowl parties, as well? How you layout the bar and what features you incorporate depend on the folks who will most often use the space.
2. Design easy access to your supplies - Displaying your pretty glassware, cocktail fixings and liquor is an easy way to set the stage for fun times, especially for more grown-up gatherings. Easy access to ice, and refrigeration is key for playing home mixologist. In lieu of an ice maker (noisy and expensive), we’ve had many clients incorporate freezer drawers into their bars – and then fresh bags of ice are stored there and replenished as needed. Also take note of how much dedicated storage you want for wine, and if your collection requires refrigeration.
3. Consider flexibility - For bars that will cater to a wider variety of folks, such as kids, teens, family parties, etc., the key is building in flexibility. This could mean multiple fridge drawers as opposed to a beverage fridge, as these appliances are often easier to stock a variety of kid friendly drinks and snacks. Clients often opt for lockable liquor storage so booze can get tucked away when it’s not on the agenda. If your family parties involve lots of food, make sure you plan for adequate counter space to set out pizzas and snacks, or to plug in a crockpot. Easily accessible trash and recycling cabinets up the odds that your family and guests will clean up after themselves – but no promises!
4. Think through cleaning and tidying - If you plan to display glassware and/or bottles, take note of how frequently things will get used. Dusting will be necessary for any open display so if that’s a dealbreaker for you, it’s best to think about closed/glass cabinets. Also, what type of utensils and serviceware will you use most frequently? If it’s items you’ll toss, you can opt for lower drawers and cabinets that can get replenished as needed. Anything nice, from glasses to trays, etc., will need to be washed, obviously, so access to a beverage sink or dishwasher becomes more important.
5. Take account of storage needs - You’ll want to think through all the items you plan on storing in your bar area. Similar to the process of a kitchen design, you may want to do a usage assessment to make sure your cabinetry can accommodate everything you need it to, from trays and popcorn bowls to snacks, and more. You’ll want to make sure you have a place for everything.
6. Contemplate your vibe - Your home bar can be swanky and sophisticated or cheerful and casual. Selecting finishes that get you the vibe you’re after is important – as well as where in the home your bar lives in context to your other spaces. Generally, bars located in distinct spaces (basements, offices, etc.) lend themselves to creating a more distinct look than bars that are more central to the overall family space and need to flow with other decor choices.
Cheers!
Here’s more inspiration on flexible home bars.