Raised by industrious parents who also knew how to enjoy the fruits of their labor, my restauranteur dad and my arty entrepreneurial mom spontaneously threw parties, and deemed it necessary to equip our Lincolnwood, IL, home with an always fully stocked basement bar. Paneled in cherry stained plywood, with full height mirror backsplash, and glass shelves to display liquor bottles, the pro bar tender approved set up was nestled next to a raised, full size dance floor, adorned with disco balls, flashing colored lights, and strobes, with a kick ass sound system. Just to be “safe,” a railing was designed and installed so nobody fell off while disco-ing it up! The basement was where we hung out with our friends after school, watched tv, played donkey kong, and as my brothers and I reached middle school, hosted some epic make out parties. It’s where my mom and aunt launched their women’s clothing business, and at the switch of a light, on Saturday nights, became party central for the grown ups. It’s no wonder, bars have been central lifestyle elements in the homes in which I live and design for my clients.
The well thought out home bar can transform your hosting experience while also creating a lifetime of fun family memories—and it’s all about blending style with smart functionality. If you are considering converting an underutilized space in your home to a bar, or renovating an existing, dated bar, begin with deciding how you will use and enjoy the space most, and how it will serve your guests best. Think outside the box….a bar isn’t just for boozy beverages….coffee, smoothies, wine, soft drinks, snacks all within the confines of your home bar, or bars, promote gathering, socializing, conversation, and memory making.
Key Considerations for Your
Home Bar Design
Wet or Dry?
Decide if you’d like a wet bar with a sink and ice maker for added convenience, making it easy to rinse and chill without leaving your hosting duties.
If lack of plumbing is an issue, don’t worry—a dry bar can still make a great gathering spot
with the right setup.
Functional Layout
Electrical outlets are essential for blended drinks or charging devices, so make sure they’re conveniently located and enhance the aesthetic.
Incorporate bar-height seating to create a cozy space for small groups and keep conversations flowing while drinks are prepared.
Storage Solutions for a Streamlined Setup
Add a small fridge for chilled drinks, wine storage, and shelving for glassware and tall bottles.
Easy access to garbage and recycling bins will keep the area clean and tidy.
Creating a Welcoming Ambiance
If your bar is dry, consider setting it up near areas where guests naturally gather, such as the living or dining room.
Add art, a touch of greenery, or unique glassware to personalize the space and make it a visual focal point.
Elegant and Conscientious Finishing Touches
Incorporate beautiful design elements such as sleek faucets, and statement cabinet hardware to elevate the look. These small details can create a polished, cohesive aesthetic that enhances the overall vibe.
The bar tray shown in this photo above was made from an iceberg quartzite remnant from a kitchen remodel we did. We asked our fabricator to produce them for us, and install the cabinet pulls as handles for the tray. One is placed here at the Design Lab and the other was given as a “move-in” gift from Staci to her clients when their home renovation was completed.
Thoughtful glassware, an organized setup, and a little flair in your décor go a long way in setting the scene.
Make it personal, monogram beverage napkins or a cutting board to add a distinctive touch that makes guests feel at home.
Beautiful, durable surfaces like natural stone, Dekton, and Silestone are amongst some of Staci’s go-to’s and can all be used in one space. For example, Dekton was used in this outdoor bar, while natural stone was installed in the wine and coffee bar, and Silestone in the wet bar. You can mix materials that are harmonious.
Showcase Art and Personal Style
The bar face and adjoining walls can be an opportunity for creative expression. For example, Staci Munic designed a unique wall covering that was crafted by Kyle Bunting in hair-on-hide, adding a stunning, artistic element to her home bar.
As another idea, commission a local artist to paint a custom mural on a bar wall or nearby wall, such as this one shown in the outdoor bar, by Lynda Keeler, adding visual interest and creating a one-of-a-kind focal point. Or, find the perfect art piece which doubles as ambient light and punctuates your personal style and taste, such as this back-lit collage by Steven Rudin, shown in the dual wine and coffee bar location.
Multi-Functional Features
Design your bar to serve double-duty as a wine and coffee bar. It’s a versatile way to make the space usable any time of day, and across all seasons, in addition to special occasions.
The Forge is a crowd pleaser and will have your guests interacting, and gathering around the bar in amazement…..and makes the most perfect round ice sphere!
Most importantly, make it your own, the beauty is at least in part in the function. Ultimately, by personalizing your bar to reflect your unique style and needs, you'll create a memorable space that's perfect for hosting unforgettable holiday gatherings and serving you on the daily.
We are so grateful for your support, loyalty, and for being able to be an industry that is filled with beauty, innovation, and creative puzzle solving to help people to live their best, most comfortable lives in their cherished spaces. Wishing you a holiday season abundant in happiness and good health!
Cheers, Sauld, L’Chaim, Santeé, Cin Cin, Na Zdrowie, Saudé, Santé!
Comments