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With a bar in your own home you’ll be living the dream of having a place to drink with friends and family that doesn’t require you to leave the boundaries of your property.
There are quite a few variables to consider ahead of starting this type of project, so here are a few tips to take you from beginning to end efficiently.
Choosing the Perfect Spot for Your Home Bar
Finding the right spot for your home bar can make or break its vibe. Start by assessing your available space:
- Corner Nook: Utilize an underused corner in your living room.
- Basement Retreat: Convert a section of your basement into a cozy bar area.
- Outdoor Oasis: If weather permits, set up an outdoor bar on the patio.
Think about traffic flow. You don’t want people bumping into each other while reaching for their drinks. Consider proximity to essentials like a water source or power outlets, especially if you plan on adding appliances.
Assess lighting and noise levels too. A quiet spot with adjustable lighting can create that perfect pub atmosphere at home.
For small spaces, vertical solutions work wonders; think floating shelves instead of bulky cabinets. While today’s homes may be 2 times the size of their equivalents 50 years ago, keeping your bar compact might be wise regardless.
Essential Glassware Every Home Bar Needs
Your home bar’s glassware defines its class. Start with these must-haves:
- Rocks Glasses: Ideal for whiskey or mixed drinks on the rocks.
- Highball Glasses: Perfect for cocktails like gin and tonics or mojitos.
- Martini Glasses: Essential for martinis and other shaken drinks.
Next, consider your wine options. Stock both red and white wine glasses, as their shapes enhance the innate flavors. Champagne flutes are a nice touch too if you love bubbly celebrations.
Don’t overlook beer glasses either. Pint glasses are versatile, but a set of pilsner glasses elevates presentation for craft beers.
Having a variety means you’re ready to serve anything from an Old Fashioned to a classic Margarita with style. Quality over quantity applies here, so invest in durable yet elegant pieces that reflect your personal taste and can withstand frequent use.
You could even use a guide on liquor costs to research up-to-date prices to apply to the different beverages you serve, creating a faux-menu to add authenticity along with all the glassware.
Crafting Personalized Decor Elements
Adding personalized decor turns your home bar into a true reflection of you. Begin with custom signs or neon lights featuring your name or favorite drinking motto.
Consider handmade coasters. They add a unique touch and protect surfaces. Use materials like cork, wood, or resin to craft them in shapes that fit your style.
Frame vintage cocktail posters or artwork for a splash of color and nostalgia. Or create a gallery wall mixing art with framed photos of memorable drinking moments.
Include practical items like custom bottle openers and cocktail shakers. They’re functional yet stylish additions that impress guests. And if you can find them elsewhere in your home rather than buying new, you’ll be decorating on a budget.
Final Thoughts
Keep these tips to hand when designing and building your home bar if you want an end product that’s as stunning as it is usable. And don’t be shy about asking for a second opinion from other members of the household if you get stuck on a decision.