The home wet bar has been a part of entertaining for decades, but today’s renditions are more fashionable than ever before. Basic components include: a faucet with sink, a stylish counter with cabinets underneath, handsome open shelving above, a wine refrigerator and, if the sky’s the limit, a dishwasher. Don’t forget a beverage cart for party mobility.
Check out these four ideas for setting up a bar in your home.
The butler’s pantry bar. Some bars can be combined with a butler’s pantry, which is typically adjacent to the kitchen and food pantry, with direct serving access to the dining area. If the living area is close by, a serving window will complete the three-way connection of kitchen-dining-living areas.
The basement bar. Homeowners who transform their basements into cheerful entertaining areas, home theaters or game rooms can usually accommodate a bar area. If space is limited, nestle it into a wall space under the stairs.
The man cave bar. If there was any place in the house that calls for a bar it would be the “man cave.” Think big-screen TV, gaming tables and bar stools on top of the usual bar accoutrements. Decor ideas? Sports, hunting, vintage automobiles or a favorite college team are all classic choices.
The outside bar. Adding a bar to an outdoor kitchen is a natural tie-in. With a sink and fridge already in place, think about adding a bar and stools under a porch awning or shade arbor. Next, add a wall-mounted TV, a string of accent lighting and a little tiki bar décor for some added whimsy. Take care to lock your alcoholic beverages away, if you plan to keep them outside.
