Marcio Vasconcelos
If you are looking for some inspiration to start your home bar project, check out our ideas for setting up the perfect home bar! Whether you're a cocktail enthusiast or just love entertaining guests, having a home bar can elevate your hosting game to the next level.
So, if you are dreaming of a full bar in your basement or considering a small section in your living room for your cherished liquors, there's a home bar concept for every space and financial plan.
Read on to discover a range of ideas, from a simple and fun set to a chic bar cart filled with necessities. Maybe an intricately themed bar space complete with a countertop, stools, a sink, dishwasher, and drink storage that competes with your favorite local pub.
Without further ado, let’s get started!
What is a Good Size for a Home Bar?
For an optimal home bar, the standard size recommendation is a minimum of 3 feet wide and 6.5 feet deep, providing sufficient space for movement, entertainment equipment, and preventing overcrowding. The ideal height is about 42 inches, but if you’re planning on using stools, a functional height of 36 inches is suitable, whereas a 40-inch height is preferable for standing use.
Those with a basement home theater might find these dimensions fitting, but if planning a more comprehensive setup with amenities like a sink and ice machine, an additional 2 feet should be added. The bar overhang should range between 4 to 16 inches.
Bar stools should be a minimum of 22 inches high, and ample storage space is essential for bar essentials, ideally located below the counter to save countertop space.
What is the Best Color for a Home Bar?
The best color for your home bar should reflect your personal style and the overall aesthetic of your home. Neutral colors like black, white, or wood tones are timeless and can fit into most decor styles.
For a more vibrant look, consider bold colors like deep blues, rich reds, or emerald greens. Remember, the color you choose sets the mood, so pick one that complements the vibe you want to create.
Color Ideas
Classic Neutrals
Black, white, or shades of gray create a timeless and sophisticated look. They are versatile and can complement any interior style.
Rich Wood Tones
Browns and wood finishes offer a warm, inviting, and traditional pub feel. They work well in classic and rustic-themed spaces.
Bold and Vibrant
Colors like deep blues, emerald greens, or rich reds make a statement and can infuse energy and personality into the space.
Dark and Moody
Darker hues, such as charcoal or navy, create a cozy, intimate atmosphere, ideal for a more private and luxurious bar experience.
Bright and Light
Lighter shades like creams, beiges, or pastels can make the space feel more open and airy, suitable for a casual, relaxed bar area.
How Do I Set Up a Small Bar at Home?
Setting up a small bar at home is easy and fun! Here are the basic steps:
Choose Your Space
When setting up your bar in a structure like a home, garage, shed, or a separate outdoor unit like an outhouse or man cave, it's essential to accurately measure the space for construction. Also, consider the bar's height in outdoor settings, especially if choosing between a sloped or flat roof, to avoid it being excessively tall and potentially alarming neighbors.
Select Furniture
The choice of where to place your bar display, be it in the kitchen, living room, or dining room, is entirely yours. The crucial aspect is to choose a bar cart, a small cabinet, or even a shelf can serve as your bar. Look for something that fits your space and style.
Stock Essentials
Include a variety of spirits to cover basic cocktails (like vodka, gin, rum, tequila, and whiskey), a selection of mixers, and essential bar tools like a shaker, jigger, strainer, and a muddler. Don’t forget to include some non-alcoholic beverages and mixers for guests who don’t drink alcohol. And of course, you will need a range of glasses suitable for different types of drinks – wine glasses, beer glasses, cocktail glasses, and so on.
Accessorize and Decorate
Add a personal touch with decorative elements. This could be unique bottle openers, fancy stirrers, or even some artwork. Consider Storage and Organization. Use your space wisely. If your bar is on a cart or a small table, use vertical space for storage, like hanging racks for glasses or wall-mounted shelves for bottles. Also, good lighting can enhance the ambiance of your bar area. Consider adding a small lamp or LED lights.
5 Bar Ideas: From Simple and Fun Designs to Most Modern and Luxurious
Transforming a space in your home into a bar is not just about adding functionality; it's about creating an atmosphere that reflects your personality and style. Whether you're looking for a cozy spot to unwind after a long day or an exciting area to entertain guests, there's a bar design for everyone. Here are five diverse bar ideas, ranging from simple and playful to modern and luxurious, that can inspire your next home project.
Classic Pub Style
Embrace the timeless appeal of a traditional pub with dark wood finishes, brass accents, and an array of pub memorabilia. This style is perfect for those who appreciate the nostalgic charm of old-world taverns.
Adorn the walls with vintage beer signs and classic pub decorations like mirrors from favorite breweries or old-fashioned beer taps. The warm and inviting ambiance makes it an ideal setting for relaxed conversations and enjoying a pint with friends.
Tiki Bar Fun
Create a vibrant escape with a Tiki bar theme. This style is all about bright colors, tropical decor, and quirky tiki mugs. Think bamboo furniture, colorful lanterns, and Polynesian-inspired art. A Tiki bar is not just a bar; it's a destination that offers an escape to a tropical paradise. Don't forget to add a variety of exotic cocktails to your menu to complete the experience!
Sports Bar Vibe
For sports enthusiasts, a sports bar vibe can be the perfect choice. Equip your bar with mounted TVs to catch every game, and decorate the space with memorabilia from your favorite sports teams. Comfortable seating is key here - think plush sofas and recliners that can accommodate you and your friends on game day. A pool table or dartboard can add an extra layer of entertainment.
Luxury Lounge
If elegance and sophistication are what you seek, the luxury lounge style is for you. Plush seating, elegant lighting, and a sophisticated color palette create an upscale and refined atmosphere. Think velvet bar stools, crystal glassware, and a sleek marble bar top. Soft, ambient lighting and a curated selection of fine spirits and wines will make your bar the epitome of luxury.
Outdoor Oasis
For those who love the outdoors, converting a patio or backyard space into an outdoor bar can be a dream come true. Utilize weather-resistant materials for durability, and enhance the ambiance with string lights and comfortable outdoor bar stools. This setup is perfect for summer evenings, offering a relaxing spot to enjoy a drink while surrounded by nature.
People also ask
How much does it cost to set up a home bar?
On average, installing a home bar costs about $8,000, with a typical range between $500 and $22,500. Custom-built bars usually cost between $5,000 to $20,000. Ready-made bar units are priced from $800 to $6,000, excluding the costs for plumbing, electrical outlets, or lighting. Additionally, labor and design expenses vary, falling anywhere from $200 to $8,000.
What are some must-have spirits for a home bar?
Stocking your home bar with a selection of essential spirits is key to being able to mix a wide range of popular cocktails. Here are some must-have spirits you should consider:
Vodka
A versatile spirit that's essential for many classic and modern cocktails like the Martini, Moscow Mule, and Bloody Mary.
Gin
Vital for gin-based classics such as the Gin and Tonic, Martini, and Negroni.
Rum
White rum is a staple for Mojitos and Daiquiris, while dark or spiced rum is great for drinks like the Dark 'n' Stormy and Mai Tai.
Tequila
Essential for Margaritas and Tequila Sunrises. Opt for a good-quality blanco or reposado.
Whiskey
Choose a versatile bourbon or rye for cocktails like the Old Fashioned and Whiskey Sour. Having a Scotch for sipping can also be a good addition.
Brandy or Cognac
Used in classic cocktails such as the Sidecar and Brandy Alexander.
Vermouth
Both sweet and dry vermouth are important for a variety of cocktails. Keep them refrigerated after opening.
Aside from these spirits, it's also a good idea to have a selection of liqueurs like triple sec, Amaretto, and Baileys for added flavor and complexity in your cocktails. Don't forget to stock up on wines, mixers, bitters, and garnishes to round out your home bar.
