Planning a home bar entails more than just throwing in a fancy island; it requires other considerations such as ample storage space and ambient lighting, down to minor details such as tableware and glasses. For those who don’t know where to start, here’s how you can set up a stylish bar counter in your own home — in just five easy steps.
Step 1: Choose the perfect spot
Image courtesy of Ultimate Interior Creation
Step one is to choose where you want to set up your in-house bar. If your kitchen is undergoing renovations, factor in the ideal bar nook in the form of an L-shaped counter or a narrow kitchen island. Alternatively, work the bar into your existing kitchen by making room for all the essentials, such as a wine chiller, a glassware display and, most importantly, a couple of bar stools. We recommend placing the bar along the outer edge of the kitchen, bordering the dining area, as this makes it appear spacious and inviting.
Step 2: Maximise storage space
Image courtesy of AO Studios
Feel free to choose a combination of closed and open storage solutions such as ceiling-hung racks, display cabinets and a built-in chiller within the base cabinet. For compact homes, you can even introduce a bar cart that can be easily tucked away when not in use. Also, be sure to make enough room for small appliances and bar tools so they don’t clutter the counter.
Step 3: Install suitable lighting
Image courtesy of Ciseern
A combination of soft hidden beams and spotlights can help to spruce up the bar and set the stage for intimate drinks. You can also hang a statement pendant above the counter for that WOW effect or go bold with neon lights that’ll make your bar corner rival that of a high-end cocktail bar.
Step 4: Style the area
Image courtesy of Fifth Avenue Interior
Now onto the fun part! Give your bar corner lots of personality by playing with feature walls, quirky decor and bold patterns. While metallic wallpaper is ideal if you want to create a moody and intimate setting, vibrant colours and striking artworks are great for that swanky hipster look. If your home is on the small side and you want to keep the decor to a minimum, you can also add a mirror backsplash to create the illusion of a larger space.
Step 5: Invest in glassware
Image courtesy of Magda Ehlers
It’s always a good idea to invest in glassware and other accents as they are not only essential but also add to the final look of your bar counter. Depending on your choice of spirits, you can opt for cocktail glasses, shot glasses, champagne glasses, wine glasses or beer mugs. If your pals are clumsy drinkers, get ones made of polycarbonate instead — they’re shatterproof and generally much sturdier. Top off your glassware collection with a classic cocktail shaker to impress your guests!
Featured image courtesy of Oblivion Lab
